I 



CUSTOMS AND MANNERS. 233 



matics, to the end that the natural fragrancy of the flowers 

 may be heightened. 



This dehcate operation having been performed, an econo- 

 mical distribution is made among the ladies who are present. 

 Each places her portion in her bosom, and thence presents 

 her favourite with an orange-blossom, or a small bunch of 

 flowers, which sometimes receive a greater value from the 

 beautiful hand that bestows them, than from that of Nature 

 herself. 



COMPLAINT OP FIXIOGAMIO, ON THE EXTRAVAGANCE OP HIS WIFE. 



[Addressed to the Academical Society, 1 



To you, gentlemen, as true lovers of the country, I have 

 recourse for counsel, and for relief from the anxieties, suffer- 

 ings, and perplexities, which oppress and drive me to de- 

 spair. 



I am a reputable and well-disposed man, very much at your 

 service, gentlemen, and wedded to a lady of great judgment 

 and talents, according to vulgar report r — well born, of a 

 gentle disposition, possessing many graces and accomplish- 

 ments, and endued with a rare wit. A certain friend of mine, 

 a great observer in these matters, has noticed in her twenty- 

 five different modes of laughing, and more than forty of look- 

 ing. As a proof of her vivacity, he says that he has never 

 seen her either gape or stretch herself, notwithstanding she 

 has passed four nights in succession without sleep. In short, 

 she is a precious pearl, and the theme of all the assem- 

 blies. 



H h . We 



