Page:On the economy of machinery and manufactures - Babbage - 1846.djvu/386

352 2l. by working at lace-frame-making in Nottingham.

On examining the nature of this profitable work, the master clock-makers perceived that one part of the bobbin-net machines, that which held the bobbins, could easily be made in their own workshops. They therefore contracted with the machine-makers, who had already more work ordered than they could execute, to supply the "bobbin-carriers," at a price which enabled them, on their return home, to give such increased wages as were sufficient to retain their own workmen, as well as yield themselves a good profit. Thus an additional facility was afforded for the construction of these bobbin-net machines: and the conclusion was not difficult to be foreseen. The immense supply of bobbin-net thus poured into the market, speedily reduced its price; this reduction in price, rendered the machines by which the net was made, less valuable; some few of the earliest producers, for a short time, carried on a profitable trade; but multitudes were disappointed, and many ruined. The low price at which the fabric sold, together with its lightness and beauty, combined to extend the sale; and ultimately, new improvements in the machines, rendered the older ones still less valuable.

(427.) The bobbin-net trade is, at present, both extensive and increasing; and, as it may, probably, claim a larger portion of public attention at some future time, it will be interesting to describe briefly its actual state.

A lace-frame on the most improved principle, at the present day, manufacturing a piece of net