They embraced themselves in the cruel stays that comj)ressed their figures into the wasp-like waist then the object of foolish admiration, and tilted themselves forward on the pinching and high-heeled shoes, which had passed from Louis Quatorze to Charles II., and thence to the colonies. The stalwart and heroic impulses which united the colonies In their revolt against the British monarchy penetrated all classes of society, and as the crisis approached dress became simpler and the great ladies co-operated with their lords to represent in their own persons the economy and plainness which typified the coming era of war and republicanism.

As to the women in their homes, Mrs. Van Cortlandt has to say, --

" Knitting was an art much cultivated, the Dutch women excelling in the variety and intricacy of the stitches. A knitting sheath, which might be of silver or of a homely goose quill, was an indispensable utensil to the dame, and beside it hung a ball pin-cushion. Crewel work and silk embroidery were fashionable, and surprisingly pretty effects were produced. Every little maiden had her sampler, which she began with

1 The Assembly of New York resolved September 9, 1730, that a tax of three shillings be laid " on every inhabitant, resident or sojourner, young or old, within the colony, that wears a wig or peruke made of human or horse hair mixed, by whatever denomination the panie may be distinguished." -- " HUlm: 3Ing." vol H., Xo. 12, December, 1878.

the alphabet and numerals, following them with a Scriptural text or verse of a metrical psalm. Then the fancy was let loose on birds, beasts and trees. Most of the old families possessed framed pieces of embroidery, the handiwork of female ancestors, some of which can stand comparison with the Kensington productions of this day.