Amongst the numerous clubs outlined by the London Spy (aka writer and publican Ned Ward) is the Mollies Club, one of the first English literary descriptions of a gay club. The tone is predominately hostile and sneering as the general Bacchanalian activities of the club are commented upon, the members drink and gossip, and the men “on each other doat” [sic]. Most of the emphasis centres on “Festival Nights”; during these December events the club members dressed as women and performed mock births, complete with nurse and midwife roles, and mimicked the “merry society of good wives”.