E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Is’sachar,
in Dryden’s satire of Absalom and Achitophel, means Thomas Thynne, of Longleate Hall, a friend of the Duke of Monmouth. Thynne was assassinated in his carriage, in Pall Mall, by ruffians hired by Count Koningsmark. The cause of the murder was jealousy. Both Mr. Thynne and the count were in love with Lady Elizabeth Percy, the widow of the Earl of Ogle. Her friends contracted her to the rich commoner, but before the match was consummated Mr. Thynne was murdered. Within three months the lady married the Duke of Somerset. (See MOHUN.)
1
Issachar’s ears. Ass’s ears. The allusion is to Gen. xlix. 14: “Issachar is a strong ass crouching down between two burdens.”
