That was a piece of superb purple satin, which the tailor was holding up for inspection, in the best way to catch the light.
"Five nobles, an' it please my Lady."
Five nobles amounted to one pound thirteen and fourpence, and was the price of the very best quality. It is not easy to reduce it into modern value, since authorities are disagreed on the multiple required. Some would go as high as sixteen times the value, while others would reduce it to five. Mv own opinion inclines to the highest number.
"And wherewith wouldst line it, good Whityngham?"
"With velvet, Madam?" suggested the tailor interrogatively.
"Aye. Let it be black."
"At your Ladyship's pleasure."
"And I will have the cloak well furred with Irish fox. Is my broched[#] cloth of gold gown made ready?"
[#] Figured.
"Madam, it shall be meet for your Ladyship's wearing to-morrow."