This very singular expression I have often heard in Rhode Island. Mr. Hartshorne calls it "one of those phrases which set philologists and antiquarians at defiance." It is in general use throughout Shropshire, where it is applied as a comparison for what is obstinate and perverse. Ex. "As curst as Dick's hatband, which will come nineteen times round and wont tie at last;" "As contrary as Dick's hatband;" "As false as Dick's hatband;" "As cruikit as Dick's hatband;" "As twisted as Dick's hatband;" "All across, like Dick's hatband;" "As queer as Dick's hatband."