Dick Whittington
Dick Whittington is a character in
British pantomime, very loosely based on the real-life
Richard Whittington. There are several versions of the traditional story, which tells how Dick, a boy from a poor family, sets out for
London to make his fortune, accompanied by his
cat. At first he meets with little success, and is tempted to return home. However, on his way out of the city, he hears the
Bow Bells of London ringing, and believes they are sending him a message. A traditional rhyme is associated with this episode, as follows:
- Turn again, Whittington,
- Lord Mayor of London
On returning to London, Dick embarks on a series of adventures. In one version of the tale, he travels abroad on a
ship, and wins many friends as a result of the
rat-catching activities of his cat; in another he sends his cat and it is sold to make his fortune. Eventually he does become prosperous, marries his master's daughter, and is made
Lord Mayor of London three times - though in reality four times.