A Copy of Verses for 1829. Humbly Presented to all his most Worthy Masters and Mistresses in the Parish of St. Sepulchre, Middlesex

Christmas greetings sheet or 'bellman's verse' conveying the good wishes of John Newton Beadle amd Bellman to the inhabitants of his parish of St Sepulchres in Middlesex. The broadside is printed with verses for the coming year, 1829 and decorated with a border of 8 woodcuts primarily depicting domestic Christmas scenes including a family eating christmas dinner and dancing. The title woodcut depicts the beadle on his nightly watch and ward reading out a proclamation or notice accompanied by three nightwatchmen.

Such broadsides were delivered to householders within the bellman's area of responsibility just before christmas, in the hope that a financial 'tip' or token would be given in appreciation of the services provided by the bellman throughout the year. The bellman would also often also recite the verses aloud as he walked through the streets. The sheets were often hung in houses as seasonal decorations. Bellmen were Parish officers responsible for making public announcements in the streets.