Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—P

Peal

To ring a peal is to ring 5,040 changes; any number of changes less than that is technically called a touch or flourish. Bells are first raised, and then pealed. (Qy. Latin pello, to strike?)

“This society rung ... a true and complete peal of 5,040 grandsire triples in three hours and fourteen minutes.” —Inscription in Windsor Curfew Tower.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Pearl
Peak
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