Band party

Band party: An Old Army term in English regiments for members of the Church of England. These of course were usually more numerous than members of other religious bodies, and the band consequently headed their march to Church on Sundays. This story is told in this connection.
 * "What's your religious persuasion?" asked a Sergeant of a new recruit before Church parade.
 * "My what?"
 * "Yer what. Why what I said; what's yer after o' Sundays?"
 * "Rabbits mostly!"
 * "Ere stow that lip. Come now, Church Chapel, or 'oly Roman?"

After further explanation from the questioner, the recruit replied:
 * "I ain't nowise pertickler Sergeant. Put me down Church of England; I'll go with the Band."

(See To follow the drum and A fancy religion).