A mind which is struck, through the medium of sight, with impressions of
sublimity, will have those impressions strengthened in proportion as the
_magnitude_ of the object viewed is the greater, and as all things are
but great or small _comparatively_, it follows, of course, that bodies
of the same class, description, or affinity, which are _less_ than the
_largest_, must suffer, when brought into the scale of comparison with
their superiors: agreeably to these rules, the JOLLIFFE, whose
dimensions exceed all others, comes forward with strong claims to
patronage, for besides the importance with which it never fails to
strike every beholder, it is sure to convey a corresponding importance
to the WEARER. Here then are considerations which should not be trifled
with, particularly as the _assumption_ of a thing is often taken for the
thing itself—nay, are there not situations in life where _appearances_
become so vitally important that it would be little short of criminality
not to _put them on_? and where the attainment of great ends may be
insured by nothing more than a simple attention to the _formation_ of a
_Hat_, it would be worse than folly to neglect the means. Rightly taken,
what a multiplicity of persons might be benefitted by the above _hints_;
Princes, Peers, and Plenipotentiaries; Senators, State-ministers, or
Trading Politicians;—all—all may find their interest in the adoption of
the Jolliffe; and that these great personages may not plead ignorance as
to the manner in which it should be worn with the best effect, here
follow the proper instructions.
If a PRINCE, let it be _lightly_ placed on the head, and a little
_aside_, which _bespeaks a sort of cheerful approving_ confidence in
one’s own actions.—If a PEER, it should be worn in a firm horizontal
position, just covering half the forehead; which gives the appearance of
a wise and steady determination where great questions are agitated,
particularly when they become _self_ interesting.—If an AMBASSADOR, it
may be thrown a _little back_, inclining somewhat aside; such position
indicating a bold and careless indifference to all around, which will be
taken for granted that such could not arise from any other cause than a
total disregard for the _result_ of his mission; a practice, although
not often hit on, may have many advantages. As to the three _latter_
characters, their pursuits having all the same end—POPULARITY—let them
consult the style of the Prince, and remember that, in whomsoever
confidence has credit, popularity is sure to follow.
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⸪ As the Jolliffe is not likely to be worn unless for _special
purposes_, to give an idea who would best become it is unnecessary.
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