THE MODERN HISTORY OF SILK. 173 



than in Europe, and with more success, as the 

 climate of those regions is more congenial to the 

 energies of the insect which produces it. And, 

 moreover, we have seen that it has been an article 

 of dress in these countries from time immemorial, 

 whereas, in Europe, its introduction is comparative- 

 ly of modern date. 



At the end of the sixteenth century, an absurd 

 prejudice continued to prevail in England against 

 our own silken fabrics ; but still the manufacture 

 of it was steadily pursued, and the texture gradually 

 improved. At this time, the Rev. William Lea, of 

 St John's College, Cambridge, invented a machine 

 for weaving stockings, which was the first means of 

 setting aside the uncomfortable and unshapely 

 hose which were generally worn at that period. 

 The superiority of these soon attracted universal 

 attention, not only at home, but also abroad ; and 

 silk stockings wrought on these machines were 

 eagerly sought after in Italy and other continental 

 states. Great quantities were exported to Italy, 

 where they long maintained a high character for 

 superiority. Keyslar informs us, that, " at Naples, 

 when a tradesman would highly recommend his silk 

 stockings, he protests they are right English." * 



Mr Lea, like many other men of genius, whose 

 inventions have benefited mankind, did not meet 



• Travels through Europe in the year 1730. 



