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            THE WEAVER.
  The origin of this art is very ancient, and
is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures ;
hlut, like all other professions, has undergone
a variety of improvements. England, how-
ever, does not stand in such high reputation
for this article of manufacture as some other
nations, particularly in the silk and figure
weaving.  The   cotton  weaving of this
country nevertheless stands unrivalled. The
art of spinning and silk weaving is said to
have been brought first to England about the
fifteenth century; at which period a com-
pany of women, called silk women, first
established this art in London. Soon after,
men began to engage in it, and our silk ma-
nufactories soon arrived at great perfection,
Common weaving requires very little abi-
lities; but weaving of damasks, velvets,
flowered silks, &c. require a person possess-
ing some talent; and those who are able to
draw their own patterns, find it of great
advantage. Journeymen weavers can earn
from twenty to thirty shillings, with industry,
,per week; but this greatly depends on their
work. The spinning and throwing of silk
is principally performed by women and chil-
dren; in some of our manufactories a great
number, of all ages, are employed.