Masquerades were introduced into England by Henry 8th, but, perhaps, at no time were they so fashionable, as during the latter half of the 18th Century, although they do not always seem to have been successful. The _Morning Post_, Feb. 6, 1788, speaks of a Masquerade at the Opera House, thus:--"The Supper and Wines were consistent with the well known parsimonious principle of the conductor, the provision being very unequal to the _appetite_, and _number_, of the guests. The music was very indifferent." Thus we see that these amusements were not of equal quality, and the Critics did not fear to say what they thought of them. "Pantheon, Jan. 26, 1788. The Nobility and Gentry are respectfully acquainted that the First Masqued Ball, at this place, will be on Thursday next, the 31st Instant. There will be a Supper as usual, with Wines, &c. Tickets at One Guinea each may be had at the Office."--(_Morning Post, Jan. 26, 1788._) This Masquerade seemed to be very popular. "The Prince's visit to the Brandenburgh-house Masquerade was to have been in _female habiliments_; but the shortness of the notice did not allow time for preparing them, and neither the shoes, corsette, nor robe, of Mrs. Vanneck, for which his Royal Highness sent, could be made capacious enough for a momentary covering. The sailor's habit was, therefore, adopted without any preparation for the character. The Margravine's Masqued Ball produced many whimsical events, but none more than that from a character representing Acteon, who, in brandishing a huge pair of _antlers_, run full _butt_ against a French looking-glass of 300 guineas value, and smashed it to pieces. The Margrave being near, endeavoured to give the accident a pleasant turn, by remarking in German 'that there could be no jollity where they let the _glass stand_.'"--(_Times, March 1, 1794._) * * * * * "The MASQUERADE.