Chapter C: F. Greville (1)

"Resolved, that this Court, deeply impressed by the wisdom of
this measure, adopt the Regulations stated in the above
Engagement, and resolve strictly to adhere to them, earnestly
recommending them to the serious consideration, and practice, of
all Masters of Families, and other Inhabitants of this County,
&c., &c.

Selby."

--(_Times, July 14, 1795._)

* * * * *

"The want of bread is often more imaginary, than real. There are
many excellent substitutes for this article, which would in
themselves be preferred by many people, if it were a matter of
choice, only, between themselves. Unfortunately, the call for
bread will always be in proportion to the scarcity of it, from
the natural disposition of some to make grievances, and
complaints, and of others to provoke tumult, and riot.

"To make good bread. Take a pottle of fine oatmeal, and lay it in
water, to steep, all night: next morning, it will appear (if too
much water is not put to it) like hasty pudding. This break into
several parts of a peck and a half of barley-meal, to which add
warm water, and yeast, and knead it into dough, as all wheat meal
is commonly done: then mould it into loaves, and bake them. Thus,
a barley loaf may be made hollow, white, and sweet, so as
scarcely to be known from coarse wheaten bread. When skimmed milk
can be had, it will make the bread better still."--(_Times, July
15, 1795._)

* * * * *

"COMMON COUNCIL.

"Yesterday, a Court of Common Council was held at Guildhall, at
which the Lord Mayor, 6 Aldermen, and about 150 Commoners, were
present.

"The Lord Mayor informed the Court, that he had not yet received
any answer to the application made by desire of that Court to his
Majesty's Ministers, requesting them to prohibit the use of Hair
Powder, and Flour, in the Army. It was, however, generally
understood in the Court, that Government was acting in compliance
with the wishes of the Court.

"The Court then proceeded to take into consideration the
Resolutions of his Majesty's Hon. Privy Council, recommending the
use of standard wheaten Bread (see the Advertisement in the
_Times_ of Tuesday last 14th inst.). The Court resolved to adopt,
and to exert themselves to give force to, the Resolution of the
Privy Council, and earnestly recommend the same to their fellow
citizens. A Deputation was appointed to wait on the Privy
Council, relative to some regulations not clearly understood,
respecting the Millers forwarding the sort of Flour necessary for
the purpose to market. It was also the opinion of the Court, that
the said Deputation should recommend to the Privy Council, to
take into consideration the propriety of an indemnity to the
Bakers, in fixing a price to the said Household Bread.

"Mr. Kemble then made his promised motion for the Court to
resolve 'That no dinners be allowed, at the expence of the City,
to the different Committees for managing the concerns of the
Corporation, for the period of one year.' It was seconded by Mr.
Herring, when a debate took place, which lasted more than two
hours. The debate was at length terminated by Mr. Box proposing
to adopt the words 'till the 1st of October next,' the time fixed
on, in the Regulations of the Privy Council, as at that period it
was to be hoped the present scarcity would be removed. And, if it
was not, the Court could extend the prohibition. The motion, so
amended, was then put, and carried, by a Majority of SEVENTEEN
only!!"--(_Times, July 16, 1795._)

* * * * *

"We offer the following hints for the government of individuals
in affluent circumstances, with a view of reducing the high price
of provisions:--

"To have fish at table as often as possible.

"To sit down with a determined resolution to eat only of one kind
of butcher's meat; and, where circumstances will admit, to have
only one dish of meat at table.

"To forbid the use of pastry in your own house, and to decline
the use of it at any other table.

"To be particularly economical in the use of bread, and to cut,
yourself, what you use at your own table; making your servants
sensible that you give such directions from a regard to the
comforts of the poor, and not from any penurious views. It
appears, indeed, to be of the utmost consequence to make servants
in great, and even small families, sensible how much they may,
under present circumstances, contribute to the relief, and
comfort, of the poor, which every British heart must wish to do.

"Bakers ought to be prevented from selling bread of the same
day's baking, as, on a fair calculation, four stale loaves are
equal to five new ones."--(_Times, July 16, 1795._)

* * * * *

"At a period when every species of grain has become both scarce,
and dear, it is the duty of every individual to inform the public
of any possible diminution in the consumption. It is with this
view that we feel much satisfaction in announcing to all who keep
horses for draught, that a saving of _twenty-five per cent._ in
Oats, has been introduced into the stables of Thrale's Brewhouse,
in the Borough, since the month of September last, which we are
happy to learn has been adopted by several other principal
manufacturers. Their plan is simply to _roll all their oats_
between two iron cilinders, which they have attached to their
steam engine. By this process, an _increase_ is found of two
bushels a _sack_. After being well rolled (which is usually done
twice, or thrice, a week) the Oats are _mixed with chaff_ of the
best quality, and divided in the usual manner. This mode of
rolling, is deemed equal to mastication. It is found, from
experience, equally beneficial to _old_ horses, whose teeth may
be impaired, as well as _young_ horses, who often return home
very hungry, and are apt to swallow their oats without chewing
them, by which means they are frequently observed to pass through
them undigested."--(_Times, July 16, 1795._)

* * * * *

"It is now almost the prevailing custom in every family of
distinction, to have the loaf brought on the table, and each
person to help himself. This example must have a considerable
influence in reducing the consumption of this, as well as other,
necessaries of life.

"The custom of wearing Hair-Powder is growing into very general
disuse: and we shall not be surprised if we soon see it almost
altogether abolished, during the present scarcity of grain.

"The recommendation of the Privy Council, to adopt the use of
Household Bread, will be of little avail, unless their _request_
is converted into an _order_, that no bread, above that standard,
shall hereafter be baked: and every idea of expediency, and
common policy, demands that some measure of this tendency should
immediately be enforced."--(_Times, July 17, 1795._)

* * * * *

"There is no economy more laudable at this moment, than that of
lessening the consumption of bread, in private families. This has
been practised with such success, by Mr. Parish, on Ludgate Hill,
that he now consumes but four Brown loaves per week, in lieu of
twelve, or thirteen, White ones, as formerly. This is a most
notable example, and, we trust, will be imitated by many, though
perhaps with somewhat less rigour. Mr. P.'s substitute for bread,
are, principally, potatoes, and rice."--(_Times, July 18, 1795._)

* * * * *

"In Sussex, the Gentry have adopted the most rational mode of
diminishing the price of Corn. Instead of supplying the poor with
bread, at a low price, which can only tend to increase the
consumption, they give pickled pork, &c., to an equal amount,
which, with the use of cabbage, beans, &c., may banish, without
much suffering, the loaf, at least, from their dinner
tables."--(_Times, July 20, 1795._)

* * * * *

"After the humane example of the City, in leaving off their
annual feasts, we are happy to find it is _intended_ to be
universally adopted by the surrounding parishes, and opulent
families; _particularly_ by some of the principal inhabitants of
_Whitechapel_, who, at one of their Greenwich meetings, on
Monday, wisely determined to eat venison, and white-bait, _no
longer than the season will produce them_."--(_Times, July 22,
1795._)

Some of the following set of moral rules might be followed with advantage at the present day:--

"THE WAY TO PEACE AND PLENTY.

Rules for the rich.

1. Abolish gravy soups, and second courses.

2. Buy no starch when wheat is dear.

3. Destroy all useless dogs.

4. Give no dog, or other animal, the _smallest bit_ of bread or
meat.

5. Save all your skim-milk carefully, and give it all to the
poor, or sell it at a cheap rate.

6. Make broth, rice pudding, &c., for the poor, and teach them to
make such things.

7. Go to church yourselves, and take care your servants go
constantly.

8. Look into the management of your own families, and visit your
poor neighbours.

9. Prefer those poor who keep steadily to their work, and go
constantly to church, and give nothing to those who are idle, and
riotous, or keep useless dogs.

10. Buy no weighing meat, or gravy beef: if the rich would buy
only the prime pieces, the poor could get the others cheap.

Rules for the Poor.

1. Keep steadily to your work, and never change masters, if you
can help it.

2. Go to no gin-shop, or alehouse: but lay out all your earnings
in food, and cloaths, for yourself, and your family: and try to
lay up a little for rent, and rainy days.

3. Avoid bad company.

4. Keep no dogs: for they rob your children, and your neighbours.

5. Go constantly to church, and carry your wives, and children,
with you, and God will bless you.

6. Be civil to your superiors, and they will be kind to you.

7. Learn to make broth, milk pottage, rice-pudding, &c. One
pound of meat, in broth, will go further than two pounds boiled,
or roasted.

8. Be quiet, and contented, and never steal, or swear, or you
will never thrive."--(_Times, July 23, 1795._)

* * * * *

"Yesterday, the _Stationers'_ Company had their annual dinner, at
Stationers' Hall. Having determined, in consequence of the great
scarcity of flour, to abolish the use of pies, they contented
themselves with several haunches of venison, and a number of
_venison pasties_, which consumed flour enough for 50 fruit pies.
And in order to adopt the above resolution of no pies, the Court
of Assistants had, previously, a snug dinner, consisting of all
the delicacies of the season. Of public dinners, those of the
Stationers Company rival every other. We have not yet heard of
the Company having contributed anything to the relief of the
poor."--(_Times, Aug. 14, 1795._)

* * * * *

"One among the serious consequences of the dearness of
provisions, is, that the price of board in schools, is
considerably raised. There are few schools of repute, that have
not raised their terms, at least five guineas a year."--(_Times,
Oct. 8, 1795._)

* * * * *

"The price of butter, in all parts of the country, has been,
lately, most shamefully advanced, without any cause to justify
the measure. The season has, hitherto, been favourable to
grazing, and the war cannot extend its influence to our dairies.
On the same principle, the late advance in the price of Milk, in
the Metropolis, should be enquired into. London is supplied with
Milk by about 30 cow-keepers, who may at pleasure either deprive
the city of this necessary article, or extort what price they may
think proper for it. Milk should be made subject to the
regulations respecting bread, beer, &c., as, indeed, should every
similar commodity."--(_Times, Feb. 15, 1796._)

* * * * *

"In consequence of the public refraining to buy fresh butter, the
price fell from 14-1/2d. to 9d. and 10d. per pound, in Sheffield
Market, last week. And so it would be in London, if every family
would consent to buy Cambridge butter, for a few days, or to
allow only half the quantity of fresh to be taken in, which is
usually consumed."--(_Times, Mar. 2, 1796._)

* * * * *

"The Beef Trade, though it declined a market day, or two, in the
heat of the weather, is nearly up again to its enormous Spring
prices: a good bullock being now worth 4s. 6d. per stone. Veal,
Mutton, and Lamb, are getting down, but Pork still fetches 10s. a
score. Lean stock, of every kind, is excessively dear, and
difficult to be obtained, on any terms, that of the sheep kind,
in particular."--(_Times, Sep. 5, 1796._)

* * * * *

"The great importance of the Distilleries, in the article of
fatted hogs, may be judged of, in some degree, by the number
turned out of the distilleries, in Surrey alone, which are
estimated at 11,700 a year, valued at £46,215, besides the great
number fed in the starch yards. It is said, that all the
distilleries in the Kingdom, when in full work, send to market,
weekly, near 30,000 hogs: during the last year, they were at a
total stand, and the price of bacon has been enormous."--(_Times,
Oct. 26, 1796._)

Some of the great ones of the land set a good example of economy to their poorer brethren--the King among the number.

"The Margrave of Anspach sets a princely example of economy to
his betters: his table is furnished by contract, and the daily
expence exceeds not half-a-guinea per head. Of course, the
purveyor takes the needful care of broken victuals: whilst Sir
Harry, and the Duke's servant, fare equally alike in that larder,
where Miss _Kitty_ or Mrs. _Cook_ have nought to give, but bread
and cheese, and kisses."--(_Times, June 22, 1795._)

* * * * *

"His Majesty has given orders for the bread used in his
household, to be made of meal, and rye, mixed. No other sort is
permitted to be baked, and the Royal Family eat bread of the same
quality as their servants do. It is extremely sweet, and
palatable.

"One half flour, and half potatoes, also make a very excellent
bread."--(_Times, July 22, 1795._)

* * * * *

"The writer of this paragraph has seen the bread that is eaten
at His Majesty's table. It consists of two sorts only, the one
composed of wheaten flour, and rye, mixed; the other is half
wheaten flour, half potatoe flour. If ever example deserved
imitation, it is surely this."--(_Times, July 30, 1795._)

The Court of Aldermen had the power of apportioning the price of bread according to the price of wheat--thus affording the baker a fair profit, and protecting the consumer.

"Yesterday, a Court of Aldermen was held at Guildhall, which came
to a resolution to raise the price of bread to a Shilling the
Quartern Loaf."--(_Times, July 8, 1795._)

* * * * *

"The price of Flour having risen 4s. per sack, the Court of
Common Council ordered the assize of bread to one shilling and a
halfpenny per quartern loaf."--(_Times, July 23, 1795._)

* * * * *

"Tuesday, a Court of Aldermen was held at Guildhall. The Court
ordered the price of bread to remain at 1s. 3d. the quartern
loaf.

"The Court having considered the petition of the Retail Dealers
in Salt, for an advance, were pleased to order the price of salt
to be fixed as follows, viz., 8s. per bushel, 4s. per half ditto,
2s. per peck, 1s. per half ditto, 6d. per quarter ditto, 3d. per
half-quarter peck, 2d. per pound, 1d. per half ditto."--(_Times,
March 10, 1796._)

* * * * *

"Assize of Bread.

"The regulation of the Assize of Bread being generally
misunderstood, the following tables, extracted from the Act of
Parliament of the 31st Geo. II. will at once shew, by what
authority, the Magistrates regulate the Price of Bread, with the
allowance to Bakers of 1s. 6d. per bushel for wheat, and 10s. per
sack for flour: a reference to which tables, will enable every
person to ascertain the price of the quartern, and peck, loaf,
as well as the Magistrates themselves: and will prove that the
letter of the law, and not the will of the Magistrates, regulates
that necessary article. At the same time, the public will be
convinced, that the average price of flour is more in favour of
the consumer, than that of wheat. For example--the average price
of wheat, this day, is 9s. per bushel. The allowance to the
baker, is 1s. 6d. The quartern loaf would then be 1s.--whereas,
the average price of flour being 63s. and 4d., the Magistrates
are enabled to make the Assize of Bread 11d. instead of 1s.

WHEAT.

+---------------+---------------+---------------+-----------+-----------+
| When the | | Total Price, | | |
| Average Price | Allowance to | including the | Quartern | Peck Loaf |
| of Wheat is | the Baker. | Allowance | Loaf | |
| per Bushel. | | | | |
+---------------+---------------+---------------+-----------+-----------+
| 7/ | 1/6 | 8/6 | /9-3/4 | 3/3 |
| 7/3 | " | 8/9 | /10 | 3/4 |
| 7/6 | " | 9/ | /10-1/4 | 3/5 |
| 7/9 | " | 9/3 | /10-1/2 | 3/6 |
| 8/ | " | 9/6 | /10-3/4 | 3/7-1/4 |
| 8/3 | " | 9/9 | /11 | 3/8 |
| 8/6 | " | 10/ | /11-1/2 | 3/10 |
| 9/ | " | 10/6 | 1/ | 4/ |
+---------------+---------------+---------------+-----------+-----------+

FLOUR.

+---------------+---------------+--------------+-----------+-----------+
| When the | | | | |
| Average Price | Allowance to | Total Price. | Quartern | Peck Loaf |
| of Flour is | the Baker. | | Loaf | |
| per Sack. | | | | |
+---------------+---------------+--------------+-----------+-----------+
| 50/ | 10/ per sack | 60/ | /9 | 3/ |
| 51/8 | " | 61/8 | /9-1/4 | 3/1 |
| 53/4 | " | 63/4 | /9-1/2 | 3/2 |
| 55/ | " | 65/ | /9-3/4 | 3/3 |
| 56/8 | " | 66/8 | /10 | 3/4 |
| 58/4 | " | 68/4 | /10-1/4 | 3/5 |
| 60/ | " | 70/ | /10-1/2 | 3/6 |
| 61/8 | " | 71/8 | /10-3/4 | 3/7 |
+---------------+---------------+--------------+-----------+-----------+

--(_Times, July 1, 1796._)

The Aldermen also had the power of visiting the bakers' shops within their Wards, of fining dishonest bakers, and distributing their bread, gratis, to the poor,--a summary, and most effectual, way of dealing with the rogues.

"Wednesday, a cheap Baker in Bishopsgate-Ward was fined, by the
Lord Mayor, 5s. per ounce, on 16 ounces short weight, in seven
quartern, and nine penny loaves, taken by the inquest of that
Ward from out of his shop."--(_Times, March 29, 1793._)

* * * * *

"Saturday Mr. Justice Russell, and the Peace Officers of
Greenwich, went to all the bakers, and weighed their bread, to
find out if the poor, and other inhabitants, had their due
weight: when many loaves, found deficient in weight, were
immediately given away at the doors of the bakers to those poor
persons who were not under any relief from the parish."--(_Times,
Jan. 12, 1795._)

* * * * *

"Monday, in consequence of an information, Mr. Justice Addington,
attended by several officers, went to a Baker's shop, in Holborn,
where they found 70 loaves, short of the standard weight, 181
ounces. The Magistrate fixed the penalty of 5s. per ounce, which
amounted to £45, 5s., but which was mitigated to £40. The
Magistrate, and officers, then went to a Baker's in Little
Turnstile, and found 54 loaves short of the standard, 142 ounces,
amounting at 5s. an ounce to £36, but which was mitigated to £30.
The loaves were distributed to the poor in the neighbourhood of
Covent Garden."--(_Times, July 8, 1795._)

* * * * *

"A Baker was convicted, yesterday, at the Public Office,
Whitechapel, of making Bread, to the amount of 307 ounces,
deficient in weight, and fined in the penalty of £64,
7s."--(_Times, Aug. 27, 1796._)

* * * * *

"A Baker was, yesterday, convicted in the penalty of £106, 5s. on
420 ounces of bread, deficient in weight."--(_Times, Aug. 30,
1796._)

* * * * *

"On Thursday a great deal of bread was brought before Alderman
Cadell, by the Inquest of one of the City Wards, being under the
regular standard of weight. The Alderman ordered the loaves to be
all weighed before him, and desired the Bakers who were present,
to attend to the weights.

"The Bakers expressed their sorrow for it, and said it was an
accident occasioned by the carelessness of their Journeymen, in
suffering it to be an hour too long in the oven. They not
bringing the men forward, to substantiate the defence, the
Alderman told them he should fine them the full penalty, of five
shillings an ounce, for all deficient; which came to above
_twenty pounds_, besides the forfeiture of the bread. Mr. Kirby,
the Keeper of Newgate, being present, solicited part of it, for
his prisoners. Some of the Inquest likewise solicited the bread,
for the poor of their ward: but the Alderman told them that half
of the penalty came to them, which would compensate for the
bread."--(_Times, Nov. 30, 1799._)

"Forestalling" and "Regrating" were heinous sins.--They consisted in buying any thing on its way to market, before it had been exposed for public sale--and in purchasing at any market at one price, and selling it again at a higher.

"In consequence of the serious enquiry making into the infamous
practices of the salesmen, in Smithfield market, and the
conviction of a leading man among them, for regrating, mutton,
and lamb, fell 1-1/2d. per pound, in Friday, and yesterday's,
market. If the Magistrates would but exert themselves, to put in
force the laws against monopolizers, and forestallers, provisions
would soon be at a moderate price, as we are convinced there is
no _real_ scarcity: and are of opinion that the farmers and
graziers, who are now holding back their corn, and cattle, will
experience the fate of those, who, in the hard weather, refused
to sell their potatoes under 2-1/2d. per lb., and now cannot get
1/2d. per lb., but have the well deserved prospect of being
obliged to give them to the hogs, for want of a
consumption."--(_Times, May 26, 1795._)

* * * * *

"HIGH PRICE OF MEAT. This alarming circumstance is not owing to
any real scarcity of oxen, sheep, or hogs, but, partly, to a
combination among the carcass-butchers in the wholesale markets,
and the salesmen in Smithfield, who fix the prices, and who
regulate what quantity of cattle shall come to town: and,
partly, to a very shameful practice among the retail butchers,
especially where a contract is made to supply a family at so much
per pound for the year. When the butcher has made his contract at
5d., 5-1/2d., or 6d., he can make a very great profit, although,
as is now the case, he can purchase a carcass at 7-1/2d. in the
wholesale markets: and the mode by which he does this, is in
defrauding his customers of the due weight, to which the person,
who attends to see the meat weighed, too often connives at, for a
Christmas present, or an Easter gift. The weight, no doubt is in
the scale, at the time of weighing: but when the meat is put by,
in order to be sent home, a considerable part is purloined: and
it is a well known fact, that, in these large lots, the same leg
of beef(?) has been weighed to, perhaps, ten or twelve families,
in the same day, and not sent to any of them. The leg is
considered as the most convenient for this theft, because it is
so large, and is, when weighed with the lot, hung on the end of
the beam of the scales, from whence it is taken down, and thrown,
not where it ought, with the meat, but to another part of the
shop. If this was not the case, how is it possible that a butcher
can make a livelihood, when he buys 2d. per pound dearer than he
sells? The fact speaks for itself. The mode which all families
should adopt, is to weigh their meat when it is sent
home."--(_Times, July 3, 1795._)

* * * * *

"A few days ago, 11 acres of growing wheat, belonging to the Duke
of Hamilton, in Scotland, were sold at £20 per acre. This species
of forestalling, we fear, is now too generally attempted, which
is evidently most injurious to the community, viz., 'to buy corn
growing in the fields.' This practice, surely, has a direct, and
apparent, tendency to enhance the present price of corn: also,
that of 'selling corn in the sheaf.' We think it expedient,
however, to notify, that both these practices are deemed highly
criminal by the 'common law of England,' and for which the
offenders may be indicted, and punished, as they deserve, with
great severity, viz., by fines, pillory, and imprisonment. See
_Inst. 197_: also _Hawk_ c. 30."--(_Times, Aug. 19, 1795._)

* * * * *

"The contrivances to keep up the price of wheat, having been
discovered, and defeated, we hope the attention of the worthy
Chief Magistrate will now be directed towards some plan for the
relief of the Metropolis, against the extortion of the Graziers,
and Salesmen, in Smithfield Market. The prices of the latter, on
Monday, were higher than almost ever remembered, and mutton is
now sold at 7-1/2d. per lb. What real cause there is for such
extravagant prices, after such a mild winter, is a matter we are
at a loss to account for."--(_Times, April 13, 1796._)

* * * * *

"An action for regrating, in Smithfield Market, is now pending in
the Court of Common Pleas: against one of the five brothers, who
have so long supported themselves, and their families, by jobbing
in Cattle at that Market. A Carcass Butcher, in Whitechapel, is
also in dread of a similar action, the penalties on which will be
very heavy, as it is for purchasing near 70 oxen, on a Friday,
driving them to his farm, near Clapton, and bringing them to
Smithfield, for sale, on the following Monday."--(_Times, Nov.
29, 1796._)

Before this time of Scarcity, however, the good folks did not deny themselves luxuries of the table, nor, seemingly, care what they paid for them.

"The first _green peas_ which have been produced this season,
were sold, on Monday, in Covent Garden market, at _twelve
shillings_ per pottle."--(_Times, April 17, 1793._)

* * * * *

"As a proof of the forwardness of the season, green peas have
already made their appearance in Covent Garden market, where they
are retailed to the _curious in vegetables_ at the moderate price
of _two guineas a quart_."--(_Times, March 1, 1794._)

* * * * *

"The Fishmongers Company are such jolly _soles_, as to have
annually nine quarts of peas at a guinea a quart."--(_Times, May
16, 1794._)

* * * * *

"Lemons have attained a price never before arrived at in London,
namely, ninepence each; buying them wholesale, the price is at
the rate of from 6d. to 8d. each. About 400,000 were imported
during the week from St. Ubes, and as a large supply is daily
expected, the prices must of course fall."--(_Times, Jany. 2,
1797._)

* * * * *

"The arrival of the Lisbon fleet, will make Lemons once more
plenty. They were sold, a week ago, at the enormous price of 1s.
a piece."--(_Times, July 16, 1799._)

It may be interesting to some to learn when Sea Kale first came into use.

Advt.--"SEA-KALE, a new Culinary Vegetable----Mr. Curtis
respectfully informs the Nobility and Gentry, that the small
quantity of Sea-Kale fit for the table, which he has to dispose
of this season, will by his appointment, be sold by Messrs.
Dickson and Anderson, Seedsmen, Covent Garden Market, to whom he
will continue to send it daily, fresh cut, for the short period
it may last. Printed directions for dressing it, are tied up with
each bundle."--(_Times, April 30, 1795._)

In the subjoined advertisement we learn the prices, and qualities, of various Wines, and the list gives us all the information required to find out the different sorts of wine then drank.

"At Priddy's Foreign Warehouse, and Vaults, No. 14 Poland St., a
large quantity of the following Wines, &c., which being, himself,
the Importer of, can warrant genuine, at the following prices,
viz., at per Dozen:--

Ten years old Sherry 25/
Red Port, vintage 1788 20/
Old Lisbon 20/
Calcavella 22/
Fine Hock 30/
Vin de Grave 26/
Madeira 36/
Claret 36/
Ditto, first growth 42/
Burgundy 60/
Red Champagne 70/
White " 70/
Hermitage 42/
Frontigniac 36/

"Rich Aliatico, and Montepulciano, Florence Wines, real Cogniac
Brandy, Jamaica Rum, Rotterdam Geneva, and Orange Shrub, on the
very lowest terms."--(_Times, April 16, 1793._)

Coals, though, of course, not an article of Food, were undoubtedly of use in cooking it: and may therefore be mentioned here. Our Grandfathers paid very dearly for them: but it must be remembered there was no land carriage, and a continued contrary wind, or a "hot press," would leave the London Market bare. The magnificent basins of Inland Coals were scarcely known, and only those like the Moira Collieries, near to a Canal, could be worked. They were sold to the consumer at per Chaldron of 2800 lbs., and the prices below quoted represent them ex-ship. Add to this the cost of delivery and profit 12s., and take the Sovereign as being worth 30s., and it will much account for the small stoves then in vogue.

"The price of Coals in the Pool, yesterday, were:--Best 43s.
Inferior sorts from 36s. to 38s. Delivered to housekeepers 49s.
to 44s. The price rose considerably yesterday from a report that
several colliers had been captured."--(_Times, Feby. 12, 1793._)

* * * * *

"COAL EXCHANGE.

"On Monday the price was 70s. per Chaldron all sorts.

On Wednesday, the price was 60s. and some sorts lower.

On Yesterday, the price was 50s. to 45s. per Chaldron.

We are happy at giving such an agreeable account to our
readers."--(_Times, March 7, 1794._)

* * * * *

"The prices of Coals still continue very high, notwithstanding
above 100 ships have, this week, arrived at market, which are
nearly all sold from 38s. to 44s. per Chaldron: so that the best
sorts cannot be fairly delivered under 50s. per Chaldron. The
number of ships taken out of the trade, into the transport, and
other services, is the cause of the present high price, as the
demand is greater than the supply."--(_Times, Oct. 4, 1794._)

* * * * *

"Many complaints have been made of the high price of coals, and
it is supposed to arise from a combination, but we are well
assured no such cause exists. The long frost having stopped the
navigation of the Thames, what coals remained in the lighters,
and barges, were nearly exhausted at the wharfs, and naturally,
every man possessed of a commodity, looks to extraordinary
profits on unusual events, which has, we understand, occasioned
six, and seven, guineas to be given for a chaldron of coals,
within a few days past, but, had the frost continued, coals would
have been considerably cheaper, than at present, as the ice
admitted the coals being worked over it. There are, at present,
near 50 sail of colliers in the river, not unladen, which contain
about 10,000 chaldrons, for an immediate supply, (but not ten
times that quantity, as erroneously stated in most of the papers)
and, before they can be consumed, we may expect a fresh fleet at
Market."--(_Times, Jany. 30, 1795._)

* * * * *

"Yesterday, there was only one ship of coals, at Market, which
sold at three guineas and a half per chaldron. About 30 sail more
were at sea, and forced into the Humber."--(_Times, Feby. 24,
1795._)

* * * * *

"Coals were on Friday (_12th April_) sold in the Pool at five
guineas per Chaldron. There was only one ship-load at
market."--(_Times, April 15, 1799._)

THE ROAD AND STREETS.

The Highways and Streets were in very far from good condition, the roads being full of ruts, and the streets when paved, were made of large "Cobble" Stones, and were full of holes, ofttimes very dangerous, as we shall see. The foot pavement, except in some of the best streets, which were flagged, was very narrow, and made of "Kidney" stones on end, such as may still be met with in the bye-ways of some country towns. Consequently no one stirred out more than they could help; the men always on horseback, if single--by "Post," if accompanied by ladies. It will have been noticed in "Men's dress" that they all wear boots, if not in the house, and the reason is plain--they had to be protected against the mud of the streets, and ready for the saddle. Every man had to learn to ride, and no doubt this laid the foundation of the Continental opinion, that every Englishman is a good horseman.

"Young Gentlemen during their Holidays, are supplied with gentle
pleasant Horses of all sizes, and the most careful Attendance and
Instructions for £2 12 6

A Horse to ride for Exercise in the House 0 3 6
Twelve lessons when convenient 2 7 6
Sixteen lessons in four weeks 2 7 0
Single lesson 0 5 0
Book of Instructions for Ladies 0 5 6
Breaking a horse 2 7 6 &c."

--(_Morning Post, Jany. 2, 1788._)

* * * * *

"Advt.--_A CAUTION_ to all Gentlemen who drive Jobb Horses by
their own Coachmen, the Gentleman paying yearly wages to them:
From a Gentleman who has had experience of it.--That the
Coachmaster and Coachmen do agree, the one to give, the other to
receive, annually, a certain sum of money, which can be for no
other purpose than to defraud their employers, demanding so much
more for the price of their horses, to bribe the said Coachmen to
conceal defects in them, and to engage the said Coachmaster to
recommend the said Coachmen: and so vice-versa to employ each
other, if out of place or business. This is a most dishonest, but
general practice of the Coachmasters. The writer of this, to
avoid and discourage the practice of this Knavery, has purchased
his own horses, persuaded no other means will be effectual. This
is written merely to put Gentlemen on their guard, at the expense
of the Advertiser, and will not be inserted again."--(_Times,
July 2, 1795._)

Of course those that could afford it travelled Post--which was charged one shilling per horse per mile, besides a gratuity to the "boy," but this was raised to fourteen pence in 1796, when food became so dear.

"So great is the itch of pleasure at this time of year, that on
Sundays it is difficult to find post-horses in London. Last
Sunday General _Fox_, and several other persons of Consideration,
who had business out of town, were confined for want of them,
though they sent as far as the extremity of
Whitechapel."--(_Times, Sept. 2, 1795._)

* * * * *

"The rate of _Posting_ still continues at 14d. per mile, and
nothing but the unanimous determination of the public to resist
so extravagant a charge, can possibly do it away. Some few Post
Masters have, it is true, advertised at 1s., but the general rate
still remains at 14d. This charge took its rise from the
scarcity, and, consequently, the high price of corn: but, at this
moment, when corn has fell one third, nothing can justify the
continuance of what may be justly reprobated as an
_imposition_."--(_Times, July 9, 1796._)

But it was not every one who could afford Posting or even the Stage Coach,--for them existed the "Stage Wagon"--a most cumbrous affair with very broad wheels--and some eight horses, the driver being mounted on a pony--so as to be able to ride round his team. The following is a very humorous story of a journey by Wagon:--

"A DELIGHTFUL RIDE,

"In the ten-wheeled Caravan, from Greenwich to London.

"We were twenty-four passengers within side, and nine without. It
was my lot to sit in the middle, with a very lusty woman on one
side, and a very thin man on the other. 'Open the window,' said
the former, and she had a child on her lap, whose hands and face
were all besmeared with gingerbread. 'It can't be opened,' said a
little prim coxcomb, 'or I shall get cold.'--'But I say it
shall, Sir,' said a Butcher, who sat opposite to him, and the
Butcher opened it; but, as he stood, or rather bent forward to do
this, the caravan came into a rut, and the Butcher's head, by the
suddenness of the jolt, came into contact with that of the woman
who sat next to me, and made her nose bleed. He begged her
pardon, and she gave him a slap on the face that sounded through
the whole caravan. Two sailors, that were seated near the helm of
this machine, ordered the driver to cast anchor at the next
public-house. He did so; and the woman next to me, called for a
pot of ale, which she offered to me, after she had emptied about
a pint of it, observing, that 'as how she loved ale mightily.' I
could not drink, at which she took much offence; and said, 'I was
mighty squeamish; but thank God, she was as good as I, and kept a
lodging-house in Craven St., where she saw _her betters_ every
day, and so,' continues she, 'here's to you, my dear:' and she
finished the pot. A violent dispute now arose between two stout
looking men, the one a Recruiting Sergeant, and the other a
Gentleman's Coachman, about the _Rights of Man_: and, having
struck two or three blows in the Caravan, they got out into the
road, to decide whether _Tom Paine_ was an _Atheist_, or a
_Deist_. In this contest, victory fell to the Sergeant, and the
driver of the horses was so mauled by the leader of men, that he
was lifted into the vehicle, where he sat in sullen silence all
the rest of the journey.

"Another dispute afterwards arose about politics, which was
carried on with such warmth, as to draw the attention of the
company to the head of the Caravan, where the combatants sat
wedged together like two pounds of Epping butter, whilst a child
incessantly roared at the opposite side, and the mother abused
the two politicians for frightening her babe. The heat was now so
great that all the windows were opened, and with the fresh air,
entered clouds of dust, for the body of the machine is but a few
inches from the surface of the road.

"I trust, Mr. Conductor, you will give this journey to London, a
place in your paper, and, I am, &c. &c.

"Lucy Treadneedle."

--(_Times, Sept. 5, 1794._)

It will be noticed that then, as now, the _Times_, was a powerful organ for calling public attention to social grievances, and that people "wrote to" that paper as at the present time. We, in our time, know the little social inconveniences arising from staying at Hotels, where, not only does the proprietor charge for attendance, which we, no more than the writer of this letter, can understand is not included in his servants' wages--but we, also, if we want good attendance, have to "tip" the servants as well.

"To the CONDUCTOR of the TIMES.

"Sir,--Having frequent occasion to travel many of the principal
roads of England, I have often witnessed the exorbitant demands
of Inn-keepers, and the no less serious ones of their domestics,
sanctioned only by custom, yet arisen to such a pitch as to
become a burthen unable to be borne by the _poor Tradesman_ who
is obliged to travel to sell his goods, as well as an
inconvenience to the person in _middling circumstances_ of
_life_, who, for his health, or otherwise, has occasion to
travel. Grievances (the latter of which especially), are only
suffered to exist from the disinclination people have to break
through a custom, or to appear singular. Having hinted at the
former, I shall only shew the nature, and point out a remedy for
the latter. It is well known, that let an Innkeeper's bill be
ever so exorbitant, you must not only comply with it, but also
give the servants just as much as if it was reasonable: so that
there is no end of the expence: for instance, if a man who has a
horse, puts up at an inn, besides the usual bill, he must at
least give 1_s._ to the waiter, 6_d._ to the chamber-maid, 6_d._
to the hostler, and 6_d._ to the jack-boot, making together 2_s._
6_d._, and this to be repeated every night he lays on the road (I
speak now of what's expected from those who appear in middling
circumstances of life). The same expence in proportion occurs in
the course of the day: at breakfast, you must give at least 6_d._
between the waiter and hostler. If the traveller only puts up to
have a refreshment, besides paying for his horse's standing, he
must give 3_d._ to the hostler: at dinner 6_d._ to the waiter and
3_d._ to the hostler: at tea 6_d._ between them, so that he gives
away in the day 2_s._ 6_d._, which added to the 2_s._ 6_d._ for
the night, makes 5_s._ per day on an average to servants. Thus he
is putting his hand in his pocket from morning till night, not
merely to satisfy the Landlord's demand, but to appease the
croaking of domestics, who, it is well known, will let you see,
or feel, their displeasure in some way or other if you do not, so
that it is disagreeable to go to that inn the second time where
you do not behave with profuseness at the first, and there is
not only the above inconvenience, but also this, that after all
your givings they are not satisfied, but often abuse you for your
liberality. The following anecdote proves this:--Coming home from
Colchester some time since, I put up at an Inn at Ingatestone,
the Innkeeper's bill was as follows:--Supper 1_s._, beer 3_d._,
bed 1_s._, horse and corn 1_s._ 7_d._--together 3_s._ 10_d._ I
gave away as follows: waiter 1_s._, chambermaid 6_d._, jack-boot
6_d._, hostler, the change out of 2_s._ I paid him for the horse,
being 5_d._, together 2_s._ 5_d._, being 1_s._ 5_d._ less than
the bill. Yet the hostler was so abusive, because I did not give
him more than the odd 5_d._ change, that he actually threatened
me that he would mark me if I came there again. I therefore did,
what I wish every one would do in the like case, punish him on
the spot for his insolence. I appeared to relent that I had not
given him more, and desired him to give me the half-pence again
that I might see for silver for him, which after he had done, I
rode off, leaving him to repent he had not kept what I first gave
him. It may be alleged that these servants have little or no
wages, and therefore ought to receive liberally. Be that as it
may, it is very hard that I am to pay wages to another man's
servants. I pay the master his bill, in which he makes a charge
sufficient to cover his servants' wages, and then he leaves me to
pay his servants besides. If Innkeepers have nothing to pay for
servants, their charges ought to be reasonable in proportion. But
I would meet another objection that is likely to be made, which
is, that what is given to servants at inns is not to be
considered as wages, but as their perquisites. There are two
answers to this, the one, that the very notion of perquisites,
signifies something gotten over and above their usual wages,
whereas it is notorious, that most Innkeepers allow their
servants no wages: the other, that perquisites signify a gift,
now a gift is free, and may be much, or little, as suits the
inclination of the giver, but, according to the modern custom at
inns, he is not permitted to use his discretion, but there must
be a settled sum given to each servant, fixed as to the lowest
quantum, though as much above that mark as he pleases, and, if he
gives less than custom warrants, they have the impudence to tell
him of it. Besides, why should Innkeepers, be exempted from
paying their servants wages, any more than any other tradesman.
If I go into a shop, to buy a few yards of any thing, I am not
charged so much for the trouble of the shopman who cut it off.
Tradesmen are contented to pay their servants out of the profit
of their bills, without saddling it upon their customers: and I
am fully persuaded, were travellers of all descriptions to
withhold for a certain time their usual gifts to servants at
inns, it would ultimately tend to the benefit of those servants
themselves, as well as the comfort of travellers, for when the
servants find their finances so low, they would insist upon, and
would not hire themselves without stipulated wages, after which,
travellers might again resume their former generosity, and what
they then gave, would be looked upon in the light it ought, as a
gift, and not a debt.

"A Constant Reader."

--(_Times, Oct. 17, 1795._)

The following notices will show that, what with over-crowding, and bad roads, accidents were as frequent by road as they are now by rail--indeed, the per centage, considering the relative number of passengers, was much greater. The _basket_ mentioned below, was a huge wicker work machine attached to the Coach, intended to carry parcels.

"Yesterday the driver of the Chelmsford and London Stage Coach,
was convicted before the Magistrates at the Public Office,
Whitechapel, in three separate penalties of 40_s._ each, for
suffering more than six persons to ride on the roof of the said
Coach.

"The owner and driver of the Bishop Stortford, and London, Stage
Coach, was also convicted in the penalty of £4 for the same
offence: and the driver of the Westham Stage Coach, in the same
penalty, for suffering eight persons to ride on the roof of the
said Coach."--(_Times, Oct. 5, 1795._)

* * * * *

"In despite of continual and fatal accidents, not to mention the
inferior consideration of pains and penalties, the Stage Coaches
still continue to carry extra numbers on the outside. There were
_eleven_ on the coach, and box, of the Gosport Coach, beside the
driver, and _nine_ in the basket, on Thursday last."--(_Times,
Oct. 16, 1795._)

* * * * *

"The pavement in Bridge St. Blackfriars, which has been so long
in a most dangerous state, has sunk near a foot more, within the
last week, so that the roof of the main shore is every hour
expected to give way."--(_Times, Aug. 6, 1794._)

* * * * *

"On Wednesday afternoon, about four o'clock, the Boston Coach
broke down, on the lowest part of Snow Hill, soon after it left
the Saracen's Head Inn. The outside passengers, which were
FOURTEEN in number, and mostly soldiers, were thrown with such
violence on the pavement, that several were bruised, and one
woman was taken to St. Bartholomew's Hospital, where she died, on
Thursday night. The inside passengers, which were five, and a
young child, were not much hurt.

"The frequent accidents which arise from the outsides of coaches
being so overladen, calls highly for reprehension. The laws are
either inadequate to remedy the evil, or they are not properly
enforced: and we sincerely hope that the coachman, and those who
are concerned, will be severely punished, as an example to
prevent the same accidents in future. We think there should be a
fresh Act of Parliament, and, if the inside passengers were
empowered, after taking their seats, to hire a post-chaise where
there was above a stipulated number (at the owner's expence), it
would remedy the evil."--(_Times, Aug. 8, 1795._)

* * * * *

"The pavement in Bridge St. Blackfriars, still grows worse, and
worse, and not the least notice is taking of it by the Paving
Committee. This is a most scandalous act of neglect; as,
publicly, and privately, the parties have been applied to, who
ought to make the necessary repairs. The ground has now sunk near
three feet. In so well regulated a city, as that of London, this
is a most disgraceful business."--(_Times, Oct., 16, 1799._)

* * * * *

"A few days since, the axle-tree of a carriage was broken in
descending the slope of Blackfriars Bridge, in consequence of the
very large hole, at the bottom of it, on the Surry-side, which is
in the highest degree dangerous. We are not certain that an
indictment would not lay against the Trustees of the Surry Roads,
for the scandalous manner in which they are kept. They vie with
the Paviours, in some parts of the City, and we know not which
are the worst of them. It is not to be conceived the number of
horses that are foundered, by holes in the streets, and
roads."--(_Times, Oct. 5, 1799._)

* * * * *

"From the dangerous state of the pavement in some parts of
London, it might be supposed that the Public paid nothing towards
it. The thoroughfare about the New Church, in the Strand, is so
bad, that two, or three, accidents have lately happened by horses
tumbling down, from their feet catching in the holes."--(_Times,
Sept. 30, 1799._)

GAMING, &c.

We, in this Nineteenth Century of ours, are not so free from the vice of gambling, that we can afford the luxury of being particularly censorious over the habits of the last century. We have legislated against gambling, we are better educated, all our surroundings are refined, compared to those which our forefathers had to make the most of. Literature, Art, and Music, are all far more popular, and yet--are there not Clubs, thinly veiled indeed, but really, and truly, solely existing for card playing for high stakes, as much as Crockford's ever was? Have we not reduced the Turf to a science? and has it not come to such a pass, that an honest Nobleman like Lord Falmouth, will no longer run his race horses, because of the roguery on the Turf? Is not the Stock Exchange one huge Gamble? Therefore, in reading the notes about gaming, in "Old Times," let us remember the beams in our own eyes, before making a fuss about the motes, that used to be in the eyes of those that are dead and gone.

But, although Card playing was the rule at every house, in the evening, yet some did not play, and the utter weariness which is shewn in this little sketch of Gillray's, is extremely natural and vivid.

It is in 1789 that we first hear of Lady Archer, who, with Lady Buckinghamshire, figures so prominently in keeping gaming tables.

"The Lady Archer, whose death was announced in this paper of
Saturday, is not the celebrated character whose _cosmetic powers_
have been long held in public estimation."--(_Morning Post, Jan.
5, 1789._)

* * * * *

"It is said that the dealers in _Carmine and dead white_, as well
as the _Perfumers_ in general, have it in contemplation to
present an address to Lady Archer, in gratitude for her not
having DIED according to a late alarming report."--(_Morning
Post, Jan. 8, 1789._)

"A Kick up at a Hazard Table," by Rowlandson, is not only well drawn--but, doubtless, depicts a gambling affray, to the life.

Lady Archer, and Lady Buckinghamshire did not monopolise the gaming tables, there were other ladies in the field, and, as the game generally played, was _Faro_, these _brelandieres_ were called _Faro's Daughters_.

"Mrs. Sturt's house, in St. James Square, was opened yesterday
evening, for the first time this season, for public play. The
visitors were numerous."--(_Times, Feb. 5, 1793._)

* * * * *

"Many of our young sprigs of fashion, when the campaign opens,
will have other game to attend to than the game of Faro. By
risquing their persons they may serve their country; but by
risquing their property, they can neither benefit the nation, nor
do any good to themselves. Cocking a fire lock will redound more
to their honour than cocking a card: and as they are fond of a
game of _Hazard_, let them take the _chance_ of the field, in
preference to that of the gaming table:

"Some of the _Faro Ladies_ have opened their play houses, and
announced the _Road to Ruin_ until further notice. The
_Gamesters_ was publicly rehearsed in St. James Square on Monday
night."--(_Times, Feb. 6, 1793._)

* * * * *