Giving a knife, scissors, a razor or anything sharp to a sweetheart or friend was thought unlucky, because it would cut love and friendship. The harm could be avoided by taking a farthing, a pin or some other trifle in return. Gay has a shepherdess lament that knives always sever love, and Grose adds that laying your knife and fork crosswise brings crosses and misfortune. To find a knife or razor foretold ill luck and disappointment.
Knives cut love
17 December
Lore and belief
it is unlucky to give a knife, scizzars, razor, or any sharp or cutting instrument to one's mistress or friend, as they are apt to cut love and friendship.
From Hone's Year Book, col. 1462. Read the original
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