Page:Monthly scrap book, for March.pdf/23

 SCRAP BOOK. 23   Ancient English Dandies.--Varied and ri- diculous modes of dress were much in vogue. What could exhibit a more fantastical appearance than the English beau of the 14th century. He wore long pointed shoes, fastened to his knees by gold or silver chains; a stocking of one colour on one leg, and of another colour on the other; short breeches, which scarcely reached to the middle of the thighs; a coat, one half white, the other half blue or other colour; a long beard; a silk hood, buttoned under his chin, embroidered with grotesque figures of animals, and ornamented with gold and precious stones. Drunkenness expels reason--drowns the me- mory--defaces beauty, diminishes strength--in- flames the blood--causes internal, external, and in- curable wounds--is a witch to the senses a devil to the soul--a thief to the purse--the beggar's companion--a wife's woe and children's sorrow-- makes a strong man weak, and a wise man a fool. He is worse than a beast, and a self-murderer, who drinks to others good health, and robs himself of his own. Leap Year.--- Albeit it is nowe become a parte of the Common Lawe in regarde to the social relations of life, thate as often as every Vessextile year dothe return, the Ladyes have the sole privilege, during the time it continuethe, of making love unto the men, which they may do either by wordes or lookes, as unto them it seemeth proper; and moreover, no man will be entitled to the benefitte of clergy, who dothe refuse to accept offers of a Ladye, or who doth in anywise treat her proposal withe slight or contumely!"