E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Weeping Brides.
A notion long prevailed in this country that it augured ill for a matrimonial alliance if the bride did not weep profusely at the wedding.
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As no witch could shed more than three tears, and those from her left eye only, a copious flow of tears gave assurance to the husband that the lady had not “plighted her troth” to Satan, and was no witch.
