I have a feeling that sackcloth and ashes is all very well.
He stood before us in sackcloth and ashes, displaying an attitude of penitence and humility that delighted us all as much as it surprised us.
If he does so, does he not think that it would be appropriate for him to appear in sackcloth and ashes?
They came forward suitably attired in sackcloth and covered with ashes.
The working-class woman of later years has put off the old coarse sackcloth apron.
The public constantly have the feeling that they must go around in sackcloth and ashes and that they are having to pay for the sins of the politicians.
I stand in sackcloth and ashes.
The ruling class, in any system, do not walk about in sackcloth and ashes; they are usually at the top of the tree, whatever the system.