on in every article of dress. No wonder, then, that there should be so many prostitutes, and so few good wives. "By inserting these hints, as soon as you conveniently can, you will much oblige, _A Constant Reader_." --(_Times, Dec. 25, 1795._) * * * * * "We trust that the measure, which was, last year, so laudably attempted by the Brewers, Bakers, and Publicans, for the abolishing Christmas-Boxes, will not only be continued by them, but will also be followed up by the other trades, who have hitherto been compelled, by custom, to continue a practice so destructive to the lower orders of people."--(_Times, Dec. 17, 1794._) * * * * * Advt.--"CHRISTMAS BOXES.--The BUTCHERS, resident within the Parish of HACKNEY, beg leave respectfully to inform their Customers, and the Public, that, on account of the excessive high price of Provisions, they find it impossible to continue the practice of giving CHRISTMAS BOXES to the servants of their customers, without sustaining, on the one hand, a deduction from their profits, which the trade will not allow, or, on the other hand, increasing their charges: they have, therefore, unanimously resolved to discontinue the practice, in time to come, and hope that their conduct, on this occasion, will not be deemed improper, or disrespectful."--(_Times, Dec. 9, 1795._) [Illustration: Sir George Young and Lady.] [Illustration: Lord Amherst] The following Advertisements, which are only a few out of many, shew how common was the sale of Government appointments:-- "Place under Government. £2000 or £3000 or more will be presented to any Gentleman, who has interest to procure for the Advertiser, a Place in any of the Public Offices, of respectability, and an adequate income. No Agent, or Broker, will be attended to. Letters to be addressed &c., &c."--(_Times, March 13, 1793._) * * * * * "Place under Government. To be DISPOSED of, a Genteel Place under Government: present Salary £100 a year, with the chance of rising, and other advantages: the next rise will be a considerable one.--Any Young Gentleman, who can command from 500£ to 1000£ will be treated with: and by addressing a line to A. Batson's Coffee-house, with real name and place of abode, will be informed of further particulars. N.B. No Brokers will be attended to."--(_Times, April 15, 1793._) * * * * * "A PLACE under GOVERNMENT.