Page:Caplin - Health and Beauty1864 - V.png

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INTRODUCTION.

IN an introduction to a work of the kind which we here present to the public, the reader will expect to find some clear definition of our purpose and a general outline of the principles which are to guide us throughout the whole of our labours; and this we may promise at the very outset. Our object is clear and definite, and we hope to make it plain to every one who will bestow a very limited attention to what we have written.

Clothing is not only a want of mankind, but it is one of those wants upon which people are dis­posed to bestow the greatest amount of consi­deration. In two ways the clothing is supposed to represent the wearer. The coarse Jersey frock and fustian jacket advertise the labourer, whilst the superfine cloth and elegant fit indicate the taste and habits of the gentleman; but it is not simply in