The New Hampshire Gazette And Historical Chronicle

PORTSMOUTH.

It is with Pleasure we hear some of the principal Merchants in Boston have come into a Resolution to curtail many Superfluities in Dress; and that upwards of fifty have already signed a certain Agreement for that Purpose. Lace, Ruffles, &c. are to be entirely laid aside: No English Cloths to be purchased but at a fixed Price: The usual Manner of expressing their Regard and Sorrow for a deceased Friend or Relative, by covering themselves in Black, is also in the List of Superfluities, and no Part thereof but the Crape in the Hat is retained; instead of which, a Piece of Crape is to be tied upon the Arm, after the Manner of the military Gentlemen. The Causes of these prudent Measures, every one will too easily suggest to himself to require any Mention.--As we have always manifested a great Attachment to Boston Fashions, however ridiculous and extravagant, it is to be hoped we shall shew no Aversion to such as are decent prudent and reasonable; but that we shall chearfully join in the above laudable Resolutions, and such others as may best tend to restrain the present Prodigality and Licentiousness,--And if our Ladies should cast an Eye of Prudence around them, when they next figure out for a Ball or public Entertainment, they may doubtless be convinced, that their Charms would receive full as many Compliments if bedecked with but one half of the Expence. It were to be wished that our Neighbours might not be disappointed in the Example which they are so desirous of following. but if our Ladies would take the Hint desired for them in the above, their Lead would be followed by many others.