_Umbrellas_ (Vol. i., p. 415. 436.; ii. 25.).--In Swift's description of
a city shower (_Tatler_, No. 238., October 17. 1710), umbrellas are
mentioned as in common use by women:
"Now in contiguous drops the flood comes down,
Threatening with deluge the devoted town;
To shops, in crowds, the daggled females fly,
Pretend to cheapen goods, but nothing buy;
The Templar spruce, while every spout's abroach,
Stays till 'tis fair, yet seems to call a coach;
The tucked-up sempstress walks with hasty strides,
While streams run down her oiled umbrella's sides."