The following notice from the "Massachusetts Gazette" reminds us of the time of open fire-places and blazing, cheerful wood-fires:
The Selectmen would inform the Town, that they have approbated a number of Chimney-Sweepers, who are furniſhed with badges agreeable to the By-Laws, and have ſtipulated to execute their buſineſs faithfully, at the following rates, viz.—For lower-room chimnies, fourteen pence two fifths, or one piſtareen; and for all chamber chimnies, one ſhilling each—that all concerned may govern themſelves accordingly.
Boſton, Sept. 21, 1786.
The spinning-wheel at Ipswich. From the "Columbian Centinel," June 7, 1791.
For the CENTINEL.
The Printer is requeſted to record it among the numerous inſtances of female benevolence and harmony, which have been exhibited in theſe times, and ſo well reprove the jarring diſſenſions of the men—that at Ipſwich, lately, at the houſe of the Rev. Mr. Dana, a numerous band of ladies, in harmonious concert, have again "laid their hands to the ſpindle, and held the diſtaff," and preſented the fruit of their generous toil, 118 run of good yarn; viz. 88 linen, 30 cotton; the materials, proviſions, and handſome attendance, all furniſhed by themſelves and thoſe who joined with them.—"Give her of the fruit of her own hands, and let her own works praiſe her in the gates."
From the "Salem Mercury," April 28, 1787.