If this system were now in force, it would often be patronised, for there are many lively termagants in the land, and lots in Preston.

ELIZABETH FARNESE, queen of Spain, a daughter of Odoardo II. of Parma; in 1714 she married Philip V. of Spain, when her bold and energetic nature soon made itself felt in the councils of Europe, where she carried on schemes for territorial and political aggrandisement; was an accomplished linguist; is called by Carlyle "the Termagant of Spain"; her Memoirs are published in four volumes (1692-1766).

The bravest were as unlettered as your body-servant, the most beautiful dames as termagant as Penelope the cook.