"I think it is Turkey, papa, as well as our best raisins. Malaga
raisins from Spain, and currants, which I am so fond of in a pudding,
come from the islands in the Mediterranean."
Caroline now received the reward of her memory which she generously
divided among her sisters and Theodore.
"Remember, my little darling," said Mrs. Durnford, "that rice, of
which you are also very fond, comes from Asia. Tamarinds and other
preserved fruits from the West Indies, and spices from the Molucca or
Spice Islands. Almonds and dates are imported from Africa, as well as
a variety of other commodities not sold by the grocer."
"Now, Maria," said Mr. Durnford, "I must tax your memory a little. Let
us take a look at those comfortable articles of winter clothing which
are exposed for sale by the
FURRIER."
[Illustration: _Furrier_]
"I understand you, papa, and will try to recollect. I know that it is
to the northern countries that we are indebted for our furs. The
ermine, whose beautiful white fur and black tail lines the coronets
and mantles of our nobles, creeps among the snows of Siberia, and the
north of Russia. There too is the sable, whose fur is so dear, that
I think you once told me, a robe lined with it, is often valued at
a thousand pounds. We also import furs from America, and I believe
frequently make use of that belonging to the pretty innocent rabbit,
and the graceful cat, to line our muffs and shoes."
"They suffer alike with the faithful dog, my dear," said her father,
"as well as other animals who are killed for our use. In the northern
regions the natives could not stir from their homes, unless they
were shielded from the severity of the weather, by lining their
clothes with fur. Even in England, the gentlemen feel the comforts of
fur on their great coats, and the ladies enjoy the benefit of their
muffs and tippets, although our winter is not to be compared with
that of other countries."
"Mamma! mamma!" cried Caroline, "there is the very same old lady
looking at that beautiful crape dress, at the
DRESS MAKER'S,
[Illustration: _Dress Maker_]
who was trying on the large straw hat with such a profusion of feathers
and flowers."
"Hush! my lovely girl," said her mamma, "if you are not more silent
I must take you home."
"It is just the thing, Mrs. Tasteful," screamed out the old lady. "It
will suit my figure exactly. Square bosom, and off the shoulders,
why with a lace frill I shall look delightful. A saucy fellow had
the impudence to tell me, as I was getting out of my carriage, that
I had better wear my petticoat a little longer to hide my legs, and
put a shawl on to conceal my neck. The fool had no more taste than
a Hottentot. Well, my dear woman, you will let me have this dress
immediately. I am going out to a ball this evening, and shall want to
put it on. Primrose coloured crape over white sarsenet. Charming, I
declare!"
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account