40 THE VALE OF GALA. 



poked into it and acts as a purchase to wrap one's 

 self tightly in it. l 



I am credibly informed that the trade of this 

 place (Galashiels) in 1830 could not be more, 

 altogether, than 20,000 ; in Scotch goods per 

 se, not more, certainly, than 2000. There 

 were only about ten sets of machinery in the 

 whole place ; and, allowing for the kind of wool 

 which was used at the time, could not turn out 

 more than 2000 each set, which would make 

 20,000. But the introduction of Botany, 

 Cape, and Australian wools, and more sets of 

 machinery, now upwards of fifty sets, together 

 with steam power, this amount you may now 

 fairly multiply by 10, say 250,000. Its wealth 

 now cannot be hid her cold shielings are turned 

 into comfortable domiciles on her tables, where 

 muslin kail was the fare, now is seen good roast 

 beef ; and, instead of hodden grey of their own 

 making, they now much prefer good English 

 broad cloth. I remember going to the Free 



1 It is observed in the paintings of Eastern Costume, 

 by our townsman, Roberts, that the colours and manner 

 of dress very much resemble the Scotch Highlander, 

 especially the style of wearing their robe. May not 

 Tartan have originated In Tartary? 



