Hesperothen; Notes from the West, Vol. 2 (of 2): A Record of a Ramble in the United States and Canada in the Spring and Summer of 1881Russell, William Howard, Sir
History
Hesperothen; Notes from the West, Vol. 2 (of 2): A Record of a Ramble in the United States and Canada in the Spring and Summer of 1881
Russell, William Howard, Sir
United States -- Description and travel
screams, and unmeaning cries of the 'Arrys and the Bills of our popular
resorts.
Looking at Mr. Marshall's excellent book on the United States, which
we found to be copious and accurate, I was struck by what he says
respecting a habit of the people which, according to my experience,
has very much decreased since I was last in the States, but which
he finds in as full force, and repulsive as ever. I am bound to say
I think the habit of spitting has very much diminished, but from
numerous evidences, from the presence of spittoons in every room and
in the passages of the hotels, and from public admonitions, such as
one we saw at some of the theatres, that the audience would not spit
upon the stage, I must believe that it still exists. What the cause
of this habit may be it is not easy to determine. It cannot be in the
race, because it is scarcely an "English" habit. I would be inclined
to attribute it to the drinking of iced water, but ladies in America
use the national beverage quite as freely as the men, and spitting is a
masculine failing. Can it be a result of climate? Scarcely. For in the
States, British-born people do not seem to be affected by the influence
of the habit in those around them after many years' residence. Smokers
and non-smokers alike indulge in the practice, so that tobacco cannot
be charged with the disagreeable custom. I assume that it is as common
as Mr. Marshall asserts it is, but I am bound to say, according to
my own observation and experience on my last visit, that there was no
evidence to show that it was common or national. Chewing tobacco also
appears to me to have fewer votaries than formerly. A remark to that
effect at Richmond brought upon me something like a rebuke from the
gentleman to whom I spoke, a Judge of the land. "No, sir," he said,
"not at all! I rather think we chew more than ever!" And, to illustrate
his faith, he produced a silver box, shaped a plug of no doubt very
excellent weed, and thrust it into his mouth. I do not recollect,
however, meeting a gentleman in the course of our journey who used
tobacco in that way, with that exception.
In the grounds in front of the pavilion, where an excellent orchestra
of some one hundred performers were playing, sat a very large and
appreciative audience, who applauded with discrimination, and were
content with the good performance of each piece.
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