E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Brickdusts.
The 53rd Foot; so called from the brickdust-red colour of their facings. Also called Five-and-thre’pennies, a play on the number and daily pay of the ensigns.
1
Now called the 1st battalion of the “King’s Shropshire Light Infantry.” The 2nd battalion is the old 85th.
