a1769 in (1813) I. 344 (note) Two of the scholars called Salt-bearers, dressed in white, with a handkerchief of Salt in their hands.
1864 R. Chambers II. 665/2 The salt-bearers were accustomed to carry..a handkerchief filled with salt, of which they bestowed a small quantity on every individual who contributed his quota to the subsidy.