_Tradesmen's Signs._--A CITIZEN wishes to be informed in what year or reign
the signs that used to hang over the tradesmen's shop-doors were abolished,
and whether it was accomplished by "act of parliament," or only "by the
authority of the Lord Mayor." Also, whether there is any law now in
existence that prevents the tradesmen putting the signs up again, if they
were so disposed.
* * * * *
Minor Queries Answered.
_Supporters borne by Commoners._--Can any of your readers state why some
commoners bear supporters, and whether the representatives of Bannerets are
entitled to do so? I find in Burke's _Dictionary of Landed Gentry_, that
several gentlemen in England, Scotland, and Ireland continue to use them.
See Fulford, p. 452.; Wyse, p. 1661.; Hay-Newton, p. 552., &c. &c.
The late Mr. Portman, father of Lord Portman, used supporters, as do Sir W.
Carew, Bart., and some other baronets.