I saw the kerseymere fabric that obtained
the prize in London, and nothing could be more beautiful; for the
calicoes, I believe we cannot produce them cheaper or better. A writer
in a journal here, observes: 'Why should our cotton go to England to
be spun when we can spin it in Massachusetts?' A very pertinent
question, well worth thinking of at home. We should be thankful to the
projectors of the Crystal Palace, that it has opened our eyes, for
nothing else could. There is no manner of doubt, that we can learn
something beyond yacht-sailing; but we shall not open our eyes to the
widest until the arrival in our market of the first cargo of
manufactured woollens and cottons; and as surely as we have barrels of
flour and pork, we shall soon find them with us: I saw first-rate
calico, which could be sold at 2d. per yard.
The exports of manufactured goods from this country to all parts of
the world is increasing weekly; but of all that another time, for I am
carefully collecting information. One stand I would not omit, as it
furnished evidence of the condition of the operatives. The exhibition
is managed by the mechanics themselves, and the profits are devoted to
the support of a mechanics' institute, with the usual advantages of
library, balls, and concerts, but of a very superior order; while
every female who provides any article of her own production for
exhibition and sale, has a free ticket admitting to all the advantages
of the institution.
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