subs. phr. (old).—Hemp: hence a hangman’s rope.
1625–35. FLETCHER, The Elder Brother, i. 2.
| In tough WELCH PARSLEY, which, in our vulgar tongue, is | |
| Strong hempen halters. |
1638. RANDOLPH, Hey for Honesty, iv. 1.
| Car. This is a rascal deserves … | |
| To dance in hemp Derrick’s coranto: | |
| Let’s choke him with WELSH PARSLEY. |
