NATURAL HISTORY OF SELBOKNE. 



13 



have chambers above 'stairs : mud buildings we have none. Besides 

 the employment from husbandry, the men work in hop-gardens, of 

 which we have many ; and fell and bark timber. In the spring and 

 summer the women weed the corn ; and enjoy a second harvest in 

 September by hop-picking. Formerly, in the dead months they 

 availed themselves greatly by spinning wool, for making of barragons, 

 a genteel corded stuff, much in vogue at that time for summer wear ; 

 and chiefly manufactured at Alton, a neighbouring town, by some of 

 the people called Quakers : but from circumstances this trade is at an 

 end.* The inhabitants enjoy a good share of health and longevity ; 

 and the parish swarms with children. 



* Since the passage above was written, I am happy in being able to say that 

 the spinning employment is a little revived, to the no small comfort of the 

 industrious housewife. 



KOCKY HOLLOW LANE. 



