Most of the company lodge at some distance,
in five separate inns, situated in different parts of the
commons, from whence they go every morning to the well, in their
own carriages. The lodgers of each inn form a distinct society,
that eat together; and there is a commodious public room, where
they breakfast in disabille, at separate tables, from eight
o'clock till eleven, as they chance or chuse to come in -- Here
also they drink tea in the afternoon, and play at cards or dance
in the evening. One custom, however, prevails, which I looked
upon as a solecism in politeness. The ladies treat with tea in
their turns; and even girls of sixteen are not exempted from this
shameful imposition -- There is a public ball by subscription every
night at one of the houses, to which all the company from the
others are admitted by tickets; and, indeed, Harrigate treads
upon the heels of Bath, in the articles of gaiety and
dissipation -- with this difference, however, that here we are more
sociable and familiar. One of the inns is already full up to the
very garrets, having no less than fifty lodgers, and as many
servants. Our family does not exceed thirty-six; and I should be
sorry to see the number augmented, as our accommodations won't
admit of much increase.
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