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The Love of Nature

P R E F A C E.

IN the succession of natural things, their progress and their decay, individuals seem like atoms in the sun-beams, of little moment in the great scale of Providence. The preservation of the species in general appears to ingross the whole scope and attention of Nature ; she is eternally busy in supplying the place of particulars that fall under the hand of time, and by a kind of plastic renown reviving, in a blooming offspring, the departed fire ; and if you trace her through all the various motions in her wide extent, she will be every where found to tend to one great act of love. - To attempt a suppression of this almighty impulse in the human species, would be as rash and as idle, as to bid the hills touch heaven. - All coersive bars, all artificial fences, thrown up by the hand of power, against this prolifick ardour, this essential act, have hitherto been in all communities, and will for ever be overleaped and trampled down.

An C18th Edinburgh Pursuit

The mighty call will be obeyed, and men and women always rebel against such weak restrictions: that generous frenzy which invigorates the soul is invincible, and must command. - Why then such incessant clamours against the votaries of love ? Why are the insults of the venal justice, or of the rough-hewn muzzey monarch of the night night permitted ? Their number is rather increased then lessened by persecution, which in this, as in cases of a higher nature, rather contributes to advance than lessen the point at which it aims. No enthusiasm is so strong, so stimulous as that of copulation, it brings its warrant from nature's closest cabinet, and bears even the seal of heaven, "increase and multiply ; " all nature echoes to the general, universal mandate.

If it be a true position, that "Whatever is, is right," why shall the victims of this natural propensity, the volunteers of Venus, the fairest, most amiable of the creation be hunted like outcasts from society, be perpetually griped by the hand of petty tyranny ? Do they not sacrifice their health, their lives, nay, their reputations, at the altars of love and benevolence ? Let the severest virtue reflect with me a little ; and that they are of vast use to the community will surely be allowed.

What villainies do they not prevent ? What plots, what combinations do they not dissolve ? Clasped in the delicious arms of beauty, the factious malcontent forgets the black workings of his soul. Even here the miser feels some throbbing of human delight ; stealing himself, half unwilling from his nature, he for a short space smuggles some small benevolence, and before he departs, is prevailed upon to leave his soul behind - a Guinea. - What a miracle can exceed the opening of a miser's heart ?

In the fair one's embrace the prodigal escapes from the snares of the gamester, nor is he laid open to the the wiles of the sharper. With her the youth is taught the lesson of the mind practised in genuine taste, and learns the right use of things. Here the drunkard drops a while his swinish appetite, and gazes like a man upon beauty. The lawyer in the cafe of love, forgets his quirks and equivocations, and is for that short space honest and upright. Behold the merchant also stealing from business, under the mask of night, to the apartments of Thais ; where, forgetful of carking care, no more remembering the rough sea, the bold wind, nor the dangers of the long expected ship, his heart expands with transports ; the list of bankrupts remains unread ; and her lovely bosom yields him the highest of sublunary bliss. Nor does the minister forget those delightful walks ; here even he vouchsafes to call, prompted to be sure by a righteous spirit, to exhort the sisterhood to social duties, and sometimes interlines a Psalm with a visit.

"Miss Burns", High Class C18th Edinburgh Prostitute

But these are private instances of the advantages reflected upon a community by the fair followers of the Cyprian Queen ; these advantages are trivial when compared to the publick good they occasion. Though custom has loaded them with the infamous and ungenerous appellation of prostitutes, do we not owe to them, the peace of families, of cities, nay of kingdoms ? This is a point of light in which they are seldom considered - it is here that rigour bends its brow, and severity relaxes its edge. - Were they hindered, which Heaven's forbid ! by hypocritick power, think how terrible might the consequences be. The restless propagating spirit, the stimulating energy implanted in us will work its way ; deprive it of food, will bars, bolts, or authority protect the honour of the daughter, or the pious matron's virtue ? This wild frenzy breaking all restraint, will bear down decency, relation, kindred and religion. - What domestick bane ! what warfare of humanity ! litigation, bloodshed, incest ! - but, I forbear, fancy trembles to revolve the horrid anarchy, and the mind declines to dictate.

Say then, ye who have fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, friends whom ye love, whom ye esteem, will ye not stretch out your hand hereafter to protect, will ye not cease to persecute the sisterhood, whom reason tells you, ye ought to defend ? Gratitude will inform you that ye ought. Why named I gratitude ? Alas ! I had forgotten, that it is an unpractised worn-out virtue, or brutal rigour, disguised like, and miscalled justice, would be taken off from persecuting these benevolent friends to the publick good, these amiable preservers of general tranquility, who lay aside all that hypocrisy admires, all that fashion with her varnished glass reflects as amiable upon the eye of folly, who sacrifice esteem, rank, and sometimes life, like the martyrs of old, in their country's sacred cause ; yet even do they suffer imprisonments, stripes, and (what custom has entailed upon them) contempt ; - unjust, ungenerous proceedings !

To the glory of London, and especially to our most amiable Queen, who is the patroness, be it remarked, that in her bosom have lately sprung up some publick spirits, some whose hearts teem with grateful remembrance, some who feel for the common good, who see with pity's eye those weak individuals languish under tyrant laws, most infringed by the makers of them. Such patriot generous souls, to the honour of this age, even now exist, who with hearts feeling to humanity, have considered this deplorable case, and opened a retreat for hunted or deserted beauty. How good, how gracious, how venerable is such a society, who never shut the gates against harrassed worth, but deal out comfort to the oppressed with the hand of liberality ! How praise-worthy would it be, if this metropolis would follow their example.

The lovely Nymphs who are partakers of our bounty have hearts as large, as universal as our desires ; and the whole race of mankind are the objects of their warm regard. Like true citizens of life, they scatter their blessings with unrestrained munificence. Neither the dread of want, nor care of children checks their rapid career ; their course is like the Nile, it enriches where-ever it overflows. The mercer, the milliner, the play, nay even the parish church, sometimes is gladdened with the chink of their gold, for, whatever exceptions the ministers may pretend to make their calling, he has none to their purses ; and for parish dues, he calls upon them as well as upon the rest of the flock.

The "Virtuous" Upper Classes of C18th Edinburgh...

Persist then, my friends, persist in the cause of keeping ; in that you shew yourselves friends to charity, virtue, and the state ; continue to cherish these gifts of heaven, still hug to your bosom the cordial, the reviving warmth communicated by youth and beauty ; to the dear, lovely girl whom you shall select, be your purse-strings never closed, nor let the name of prostitute deter you from this pious resolve. Listen not to unmannerly prudence, let her not argue you from the good purpose, for he will sometimes justle forwards when passion subsides. What is there in the idea of prostitution to which the greatest of characters are not sometimes subservient, don't it flourish in courts, in senates, in halls of justice, in fleets, and in armies ? nor is the sacred porch secure from the approach. Is the soft, the gentle minion of love, so great a prostitute, as he who beneath a scarlet robe, and the dignity of Lordship conceals a mind fraught with corruption ! Is not the minister of state, who sacrifices his country's honour to his private interest ; the admiral, whom venality teaches to avoid the reflects of an enemy, or the general whom gold allures from the path of conquest, more guilty than she ? These, and only these are the real prostitutes, that defile streams of publick virtue, and taint a nation's glory. On these should justice aim the angry bolt, and vengeance hurl her fiery dart. Nor let the black gown secure his escape, who in the pulpit asserts the cause of religion, and then descends to make a joke of it ; who holds forth in publick in defence of every virtue, and in private is the common encourager of vice. These are classes that should bow under the rod of Astrea.

But to you, ye amiable Nymphs, whom elastick spirits prompt to propagate the joys of soft endearments, to soothe the soul with the circean cup of pleasure, to you may laws and magistrates be kind, with you may the statesman, the soldier, the parson, the lawyer, and the merchant share his treasure. - But never may that caitif called a surgeon be found within your walls ; guard against his approach, as you value life and its support, avoid with care the contaminated embrace. Remember still your keeper, soothe his lambent flame, preserve the torpid wish alive ; with wise expedients rouse up faint desire, and make him young again. Consider that keepers are the sinews of your trade, may they multiply in number and in wealth ; may they be always ready and willing to keep up the call as honest nature bids ; so shall the publick be invigorated, the cause of virtue promoted, and the hateful name of Ganymede blotted from the book of memory.

RANGER'S IMPARTIAL LIST, &c.

Mrs JAPP, in Berringer's Closs.

THIS lady has enticed more young Nymphs to appear at the Shrine of Venus, than any other priestess ever did in this city. She has for these many years kept the most celebrated Temple for performing the sacred rites of the Cyprian Deity, and met with amazing success. She has now brought her trade into a narrower compass, but still has the best run for the Milliners, &c. who, in the day-time, appear in their shops as chaste as Diana, and at night is quite unhappy, unless they are paying sacrifices to Venus. Honest Lucky wisely considered the fate of many in her profession, and provided for old age ; we would advise every Lady to follow her example.

Miss ADAMS, alias CLAYTON, in HALKERSTON'S WYND.

THIS Lady keeps also a genteel Temple, and is extremely well calculated for her business. She is about 25 years of age, very agreeable, about the middle size, dark brown hair, fine eyes, remarkably good teeth, and a tempting white bosom. She is likewise a firm votary to the wanton Goddess ; and does not despise the god Bacchus, to whose rosy smiling cheeks she will often toss off a sparkling bumper, which we would advise her to guard against as much as possible, as she is rather noisy when she is in that situation ; we would also advise her to observe the old proverb, "To make hay whilst the sun shines," as it is certainly in her power. Upon the whole, any gentleman may be very genteelly accommodated at her house.

Miss DOUGLAS, at Miss ADAMS'S.

This girl is about 20 years of age, fair hair and complexion, good teeth, and very good natured. It is said she is perfectly well acquainted with all the mysteries made use of in worshipping the Cyprian Deity. Upon the whole, although we cannot recommend her as a beauty, she is by no means disagreeable, and generally gives satisfaction to customers.

Miss WATT, at Miss ADAMS'S.

This Lady is about 21 years of age, of the middle size, light brown hair, good teeth, but rather surly in her temper, especially after the glass has gone merrily round ; notwithstanding of this, she is not a bad companion, as she can sing many very fine songs. She is also mistress of her profession ; and it is said, before she would sleep alone, she would rather pay a clever fellow for to do her business, as love is her sole delight.

Miss PEGGY M'LEAN, at Miss ADAMS'S.

This is a very pretty girl, rather short, about 19 years of age, dark brown hair, and very good teeth. She is entertaining in her conversation, and remarkably funny in company ; she also sings very well, which renders her a number of friends. She is a most fervent worshipper at the Shrine of Venus, and carries the luxury of love to the highest pitch.

Miss DUFFUS, at Miss ADAMS'S.

This Lady is about 20 years of age, tall, black hair, good teeth and complexion, but is not possessed of a very good temper. She is mistress of her trade, and seldom wants the spur ; but sometimes the curb is necessary, as she is rather hard-mouthed ; but a slight check will bring her in. Upon the whole, she is not a bad piece.

Miss JENNY KILPATRICK, at Miss ADAMS'S.

This Lady is about 26 years of age, tall, black hair, aquilline nose, good teeth, and pretty good natured. She has great merit in her profession, and knows all the paces used in the race of Venus to a nicety. Cupid was early her instructor ; and a very apt scholar she has turned out. She was at first frighted at the dart ; but as she is now thoroughly acquainted with it, she will hug and kiss it, and put it nearest her heart, even in the very centre of nature.

Miss ANDERSON, to be found at Miss ADAMS'S.

Although this Lady is mentioned last among the Nymphs that adorn Miss Adams's house, she ought to be ranked first, not only on account of her beauty, but for her agreeable company. She is about 22 years of age, black hair, good teeth, fine skin, and tempting pouting lips. She has a certain knack at her business superior to most others ; no one is more fond of enjoyment, although she is extremely modest and decent. She has also a good voice, and many a lover she's feasted with the sweet warbling of her throat. We are happy to hear she's soon to leave her profession for the honourable state of matrimony.

Miss M'LEAN, to be found at Miss ADAMS'S.

This is a very pretty Lady, about 26 years of age, short, good eyes and teeth, dark brown hair. She is in no way deficient in the most essential points which are necessary in the universal art of love ; besides this, she is very good company, and agreeable in her conversation, which makes her more carrassed by men of sense, than others who boast more external charms.

Miss WALKER, Back of Bess Wynd.

THIS Lady keeps a very genteel house, and meets with very good success. She is about 26 years of age, tall and thin, black hair, good teeth, and a pretty good skin. She is disobliging in her temper ; and if any gentleman refuse to pay what she demands, she never fails to load them with curses and imprecations. And even the poor Nymphs, who are her only support, often feels the weight of her revenge. We hope she will take a hint from the above, that we may alter our opinion (as it is our sole aim to be impartial) when the next edition is printed.

Miss PEGGY BRUCE, at Miss WALKER'S.

This Lady is about 20 years of age, rather short, fair hair and complexion, good teeth, fine eyes and skin, and very good natured. - She is a most devout worshipper at the Shrine of Venus, and let her lover be ever so vigorous, she will not be a motion behind in performing the amorous fate. Take her all together, she is not a bad pennyworth for any gentleman.

Miss BETTY CLARK, at Miss WALKER'S.

This Lady is about 21, of the middle size, red hair, and very good teeth. She is far from being disagreeable, if it were not for her sulky temper, which sometimes cools the keenest desire even in the height of their mutual embraces. (We hope also, she will take the above hint.) Notwithstanding, when she meets with a lover, she gives him the utmost satisfaction, as she understands the power of friction admirably well.

Miss BLAIR, at Miss WALKER'S.

This Lady is about 22, tall, red hair, good teeth and eyes, and very good-natured. She also understands her business extremely well ; for she will, at any time, as the song says, "go twa go's up, for one go down." And when the sport is over, she will soon make nature revive, by a peculiar art that she is entire mistress of.

Miss STEPHENSON, at Miss WALKER'S.

This Lady is also tall and thin, black hair, good teeth, bad eyes, but her good-nature makes up for that deficiency. She is about 23 years of age ; and very fond of that sport which all nature is inclined to. She is very eager in the Critical Minute, and would inspire the dullest mortal with joy and vigor ; and if she knows any method to create fresh desire in her lover, she will willingly do it.

Miss GILMOR, at Miss WALKER'S.

This is a little thick Lady, about 20 years of age, brown hair, good skin and teeth, and pretty good-natured. She is also very coy, and amorous to the greatest degree, and has courage enough (although little) not to be afraid of the largest and strongest man that ever drew weapon in the cause of love, upon that account she, for the most part, gives satisfaction.

Miss GALLOWAY, at Miss WALKER'S.

This Lady comes from the land of Blunders, and served her apprenticeship aboard a man of war, which probably may be the occasion that her temper is not so agreeable as one could wish. However, she is not contemptible in her profession, and she is well acquainted with the art of jostling. She will heave, twist and twine, when she is quite in play, with any nymph that ever sported in those pleasing groves dedicated to the Goddess Venus. She is about 24 years of age, thick and short, and of a fair complexion.

Miss SUTHERLAND, at Miss WALKER'S.

This Lady is an old veteran in the service, about 30 years of age, middle sized, black hair and complection, and very good teeth, but not altogether good-natured. By her long experience in business, which is about 12 years, she is mistress of her profession ; she is a firm votary to the wanton Goddess, and would willingly play morning, noon, and night, at the delicious game of push-pin. As a friend, we will give a caution to this Lady, not to make free with a gentleman's pocket, especially when he is in liquor ; as it was upon that account that Miss Forsyth put her away from her house, for which every person will commend her.

Miss INGLIS, at Miss WALKER'S.

This Lady is short, black hair, bad teeth, and about 24 years old. She is foolishly good-natured, and many one takes advantage of her upon that account. Notwithstanding, she is no novice at the game of love, for she is remarkably fond of performing on the silent flute, and can manage the stops extraordinary well. She twists round you like an eel, and would not loose a drop of the precious juice of nature, not for a kingdom.

Miss FORSYTH, in Marlin's Wynd.

THIS Lady is about 25 years of age, brown hair, good eyes and teeth, and very good skin. She is a person of real honour and generosity ; has a free and open heart, and very agreeable, she has also a very good voice, with the melody of which she often diverts her admirers. She keeps a very genteel house, where a gentleman can be accommodated to his utmost satisfaction. Take her in all, she is a good girl, and we wish her success.

Miss PEGGY MURRAY, at Miss FORSYTH'S.

If delicacy is a necessary qualification, which is generally allowed to be, this Lady certainly possesses it in every degree. She is about 19 years of age, about the middle size, dark brown hair, most beautiful eyebrows, good teeth, and one of the finest skins in this City. Upon the whole, she is extremely engaging, sensible, and professes the strictest humour. She is also very coy, full of vivacity ; and when she approaches the altar of love, she does it with all the modesty and sanctity of a vestal virgin. From the above description, we hope we shall not be thought partial, if we pronounce this Lady to be one of the most valuable that graces this List, as there is no doubt, but that every one who has the happiness of knowing her, will be entirely of our opinion, and say with the poet,

She is all that painting can express,
Or youthful Poets fancy when they love.

Upon the whole, her admirers will find, that neither their money nor time will be thrown away in her company, as she is certainly a delicious morsel.

Miss HART, at the same Place.

This Lady is about 20 years of age, of a fair complexion, good eyes, remarkable fine teeth, and a very good skin. Her personal charms are inferior to few, and her good temper makes her to be admired ; and in her amours it is said, she pursues the strictest regard imaginable to decency and decorum, which renders her a good many admirers.

Miss TODD, at the same Place.

She is rather short, light hair, good eyes, a pretty good skin, and very good natured. She is about 20 years of age ; and, upon the whole, agreeable. If her lovers tell truth, she is a firm votary to the wanton Goddess, and performs her business in a very clever manner.

Miss MURRAY, at Mrs TENANT'S, middle of Marlin's Wynd.

THIS is a very pretty Lady, about 22 years of age, rather short, has light hair, good eyes, very fine skin, and an elegant set of teeth. She is very engaging in company, on account of her good nature ; and is very particular in the performance of the mystic rites of Venus. All who have attended those ceremonies, must have observed a great deal of difference in the manner used by the several priestesses of the Cyprean Deity. Some push to them with all the enthusiastic fury of the Delphic virgins, while others, though equally fond of the service, approach with such reverential awe, that they seem statues till the moment of action, when you immediately perceive that they are possessed with the true spirit of devotion. Their breasts heave, their eyes roll, and their whole frame is in agitation. This Lady is one of that sort ; she approaches the altar of love with the utmost sanctity ; but, then, her manner is so pleasing, that she seldom fails of making proselytes of all who are acquainted with her.

Miss LAWSON, at the same Place.

This Lady is about the middle size, dark hair, good complexion, fine eyes and teeth, and about 20 years of age. She is extremely good-natured, and it is said, is entire mistress of her profession. She has also a particular manner of performing business, which renders her agreeable. In short, love is her study, and Ovid her chief guide ; and according to his advice, she would untile the house, rather than not enjoy the object of her desires.

Miss TIBBY NAIRN, Fowles's Closs.

THIS Lady now keeps the genteelest house for celebrating the mysteries of Venus that is in this city. - Although she cannot be ranked in the first class of beauties, she by no means must be ranked with the last. Beauty is not the only requisite to love, there is a certain mode of behaviour, that renders even deformity pleasing ; which this Lady possesses in every degree. - We may venture to say, that she is an honour to her profession, and may be an example to the most virtuous of her sex. She has an honest free heart, professes with real propriety the strictest honour, and will never allow a gentleman to be imposed on in her house. She is rather short, about 30 years of age, black hair, and very agreeable in company, although it is said she is extremely chaste to her lover.

Miss KATYY BROWN, at Miss NAIRN'S.

This Lady is about 22 years of age, tall, brown hair, good teeth and extremely good-natured. This is as genteel a Nymph as any that pays sacrifices at the altar of Venus. She takes great delight in the ceremony, and is always anxious to please her admirers. One great qualification she possesses, which is not very common among the Ladies in her situation, that she's never vulgar in her conversation. Among her other attractives, when the sport is over, you may listen to the melody of her voice, which is very agreeable.

Miss KATTY SIM, at Miss NAIRN'S.

This Lady is about 26, middle sized, dark brown hair, good teeth, but rather surlish in her temper. She began business very young, and was fully resolved to be a perfect mistress of her profession. There are, however, but few who can raise their standard of pleasure to her mind, as she is of a very amorous disposition.

Miss RUTHERFORD, at Miss NAIRN'S.

This Lady is about 22 years old, short and lusty, black hair, good complection, indifferent teeth, and very good-natured ; She seldom fails of giving great satisfaction to her votaries, as she is perfect mistress in the art of kissing, of which she is not a little fond.

Miss HEPBURN, at Miss NAIRN'S.

A young Lady of singular merit in her profession ; knows all the paces used in the race of Venus ; Cupid, the blind archer, was early her instructor, and a very apt scholar she's turned out: At first, she was rather frighted of the dart, but like the story in Æsop of the camel, which at first frighted the whole village, but on further acquaintance, was so little feared, that he was led about the streets by boys. So this Lady's fear vanished on a better acquaintance with the same dart, for now she loves it as she loves her soul. She is about 16 years of age, rather short, brown hair, good teeth, and a very good skin, and extremely good-natured.

Miss FRASER, at Miss NAIRN'S.

This is as pretty a little filly as ever man clapped leg over ; she is not above 16, and has not been above six weeks in the service, her youth and beauty procures her a great many admirers, and she is of so good a disposition that she does her best to oblige them all. Upon the whole, she is an agreeable girl, and as she is but young in the service, we wish her success. She's rather short, brown hair, good teeth, and a very fine skin.

Miss CUMMING, at Miss NAIRN'S.

This Lady's abilities are not over and above conspicuous. She is about 20 years of age, tall, black eyes and hair, and pretty good teeth. Her bold forward temper is a great detriment to her amours. However, she performs her business in a masterly manner, and likes the sport extremely well.

Miss CASSELLS, at Miss NAIRN'S.

This Lady comes from England, she is about 16 years of age, small and delicate, brown hair, good teeth and skin, and very good-natured. Were all the compliments which the enthusiasm of a doting lover lavished on the Goddess of his imagination paid to this Lady, it could not be deemed an hyperbole. The majesty of Juno, the wife of Pallas, and the easy step of Venus, joined with the look of Phebe, all meet in this fair one. She possesses many genteel accomplishments fit to engage any person. She is also very amorous, and will do anything to oblige her lover.

Miss LARG, at Mrs HUTCHENSON'S, Skinner's Closs, or at Miss NAIRN'S.

This is a very agreeable Lady, about 24 years of age, middle sized, dark brown hair, good teeth, and an extreme good skin. She is what may be termed a beauty ; and, by her modest pretty behaviour, she gains a number of admirers. She is very coy to her lover, and whenever she is offering insence at the Shrine of Venus, her whole frame is in agitation with pleasure, her eyes languish, her breasts heave, and her limbs quiver, (which are really tempting, as they are most elegantly shaped,) while involuntary sighs and murmurs, burst from her tender bosom, provoking the transports of the happy priest, who administers with her.

Miss M'FARLINE, at Mrs TAIT'S, Back-Stairs Meal Market.

THIS Lady is about 26 years of age, tall, dark brown hair, a fine skin, excellent teeth, and very agreeable. Her admirers are lavish in her praise ; her eyes allow them an opportunity of calling forth a vast number of similes, and her fine soft skin is compared to the soft down on the turtle dove ; her ruby lips are not forgot, nor her good disposition to please, does not go without praise. Upon the whole she is a very pretty girl.

Miss ADDISON, at Mrs TAIT'S Mealmarket stairs.

This Lady is about 20 years of age, middle sized, fair hair, good teeth, and an extreme good skin. Here the Epicures in youth and beauty, may satisfy their most ardent longings. Here Venus seems to have shed her choicest influence ; and Cupid has called forth his choicest arrow of the amorous kind to warm her breast to soft enjoyment. Whenever she is offering incence at the Shrine of Venus, her whole frame is agitated with pleasure. She has a number of admirers on account of her good sense and personal charms. Upon the whole, she is as agreeable a Lady as we have in our list ; and we wish her success, as she certainly deserves encouragement.

Mrs KETTY C-------R, alias HAMILTON, alias YOUNG, and now Mrs P-------, to be found at Mrs Young's.

SHE is tall, brown hair, a fine skin, and very good teeth, and about 24 years of age. This Lady has had a great propensity for the Gentlemen of the Quill. She was also in keeping with a certain Baronet, but she has left his embraces for one of the former, who goes under the name of her husband. She is very good natured, artful in her amours ; and it is said, that was the Devil himself to come in a golden shower, she would as soon meet his embraces as those of Jupiter.

Miss PEGGY C-------R, at the same place.

This Lady is middle-sized, about 20 years of age, full-faced, light hair and complexion, and pretty good teeth. She endeavours as much as possible to follow the example of her sister, by being extremely modest in company ; although we cannot, with propriety, say she has such sense to conceal the hypocrisy. She is very surly, and not at all agreeable in company. Notwithstanding her pretentions of being virtuous, any Gentleman who has a curiosity for her, by sending a message to the above place, may have his gratifications fulfilled for a small price.

Mrs DINGWELL at the Fountain-well.

THIS Lady is a fit person to grace a table, being pretty fat and comely, she is a good Winter-piece ; and, indeed, upon the whole, very agreeable. She is about 26 years of age, her features are pleasing, good teeth and black hair, and not deficient in point of sense ; and, if her lovers tells truth, nor even in sensation ; for she is said to be very fond of the sport. A lover may be very well entertained with her, as she keeps a little house of her own.

Mrs, alias Lady, AGNEW, Nether-bow.

THIS drunken bundle of iniquity, is about 50 years of age, lusty and tall, and she has followed the old trade since she was about 13. One thing she can boast of, that she is daughter of a late worthy Baronet, who was a brave General in the war before last. Being a disgrace to her relations, who are some of the best in Scotland, they sent her to the north, where she continued in her business for a long time. She regards neither decency nor decorum, and would as willingly lie with a chimney-sweep as with a Lord. Her desires are so immoderate, that she would think nothing of a company of Grenadiers at one time. Take her in all, she is an abandoned Piece.

Miss WITHERSPOON, Blackfriers-wynd.

THIS Lady also keeps a temple for performing the mystic rites of Venus. She is about 26 years of age, tall, brown hair, good teeth, a very good skin, and extremely good-natured. She has several children, and owes her experience in the trade of love to a Limb in the Law. She has likewise a certain knack in her business superior to many ; no one is more fond of enjoyment, and on that account is not a little visited. She behaves to her customers with a great deal of honour, and renders herself very agreeable.

Miss SMITH, at Miss WITHERSPOON'S.

If it was not for this Lady's inordinate desire for the sport of Venus, she would certainly never have followed the game, as she does not possess one outward accomplishment to recommend her. She is about 24 years of age, rather short, black hair, and a very bad skin.

Miss WILSON at Miss WITHERSPOON'S

This votary of Venus is rather diminutive in size, but no so in her own opinion ; the finest Lady in the town cannot be more proud, nor can any one be more ignorant. She is about 20 years of age, brown hair, full-faced, and tolerable good teeth. She is fond of the game, and her favours may be had at a very moderate price.

Mrs YOUNG, in Sandiland's Closs.

NEXT to our good friend at the beginning of our list, this Lady has enticed more Nymphs to pay obedience at the altar of love, than any person in town. She has also brought her trade into a narrower compass, and has made up her purse, by the extraordinary demands not only from Gentlemen, but from the poor Nymphs that has paid sacrifices in her house. We would advise every Lady to shun her as much as possible, for they need not expect to make a fortune in her house.

Miss M'CULLOCH, at Mrs YOUNG'S

This Lady is about 20 years of age, light hair, very pretty eyes, good teeth, and a remarkable good skin. If she had a smaller mouth we would take upon us to pronounce her a real beauty. She is extremely loving, and gives great satisfaction in the critical minute, as all those declare, who have had the pleasure of her embraces. She has got fine tempting legs, which she is not a little fond of showing, as she appears very often in mens clothes. Take her all in all she is an agreeable companion.

Miss PEGGY ALEXANDER, Monteith's Closs.

A smart genteel lass, about 20 years of age, dark brown hair, good teeth, fine skin, and extremely good-natured. It is something very odd, that this Lady, although admired by most of the male sex, is universally hated by the sisterhood. She has got a very agreeable squint, which sets her off to great advantage. And when she's in action, she heaves her little Cupid's kettle-drums with great agility, and her languishing eyes speak very forcibly the language of love. She can accommodate any gentleman in a genteel manner at her own house.

Miss CHARLOTTE SMITH, Monteith's Closs.

THIS Lady is about 20, rather short, black hair, pretty good teeth, and very good-natured. It is needless to observe, that she had rather at any time be engaged in the old sport, than go to church to hear a sermon ; the decorum she observes, makes ample amends for some little foibles to which she is subject to. Upon the whole, she is not a disagreeable companion.

Miss COBB, at Miss SMITH'S.

This Lady is short and lusty, dark brown hair, good skin and teeth, and about 27 years of age. She is very sulky, and disagreeable in company, for the most part ; and is neither pretty, nor is possessed of one grain of sense ; yet, she is extremely fond of the sport, and makes a tolerable livelihood. We are sorry to give her the character, but we are determined to be impartial.

Miss MOFFAT, alias BEESTON, Fountain-closs.

THIS Lady is tall, black complexion, and about 30 years of age. She is very artful in her amours, and is almost worn out in the service. However, it is said, she does her business extremely well, as she still likes to mumble a piece of gristle.

Miss KATTY GRANT, at Miss BEESTON'S

This Lady is little, black hair, round faced, tolerable good teeth, and about 24 years of age. She is extremely fly and artful in her devotions at the Shrine of love, and has a great deal of pretended modesty, which is very disgustful to most people. If this Lady thinks shame of her profession, we would advise her to give it over. Notwithstanding, when she is engaged, she does her business very well.

Miss BETTY FORBES, Lyon's Closs Luckenbooths.

THIS Lady is tall, black complexion, very good teeth, and about 22 years of age. - She is also amorous, and loves the sport, as she does her soul. Notwithstanding she is sensible, and uses great decency in her amours.

Miss DOUGLAS, alias Mrs. RITCHIE, to be found at Mrs YOUNG'S

ALTHOUGH we cannot pronounce this Lady as a beauty, yet she is extremely agreeable. She is about 20 years of age, brown hair, good teeth, and very well made. She is good-natured to the highest degree. In a word, those who are fond of the sports of Venus, will find no disagreeable repast ; besides, she is emenent in her profession, excessively fond of the service in which she is engaged, has delicate legs and thighs, a soft hand, sparkling eyes, and a heaving breast.

Miss JENNY STEWART, to be found at Mrs YOUNG'S.

This Lady is rather short, brown hair, good teeth, about 19, and very good-natured. Among the worshippers of Venus, there is not, perhaps, a more faithful votary than this. She is entire mistress of her trade, and her whole person is pleasing.

Miss RUTHVEN, NICHOLSON'S Street.

This Lady is black and comely, middle sized, good teeth, agreeable and very good-natured. She is very engaging, and loves the sport very well ; and when she is in the height of her devotion, she will turn up her eyes with the utmost rapture, upon receiving the precious unction of life. She has a number of admirers ; and, in all her amours, pays particular regard to decency.

Miss MOLLY JONES, within the Cowgate-Port.

THIS Lady is about 20, rather short, good complexion, brown hair, and very good natured. She is very well calculated for her business, and knows how to behave in a proper manner to her lovers, and gives general satisfaction in the Critical Minute.

Miss PRITCHARD, to be found at Mrs YOUNG'S

This an English Lady, middle sized, fair complexion, good teeth, and about 24 years of age. She is a true votary of Venus, and will not yield the combat to the stoutest fellow that ever drew a weapon in the cause of love. She is extremely good natured, which makes her have a number of admirers.

Miss GRAY, alias HENRY, to be found at Mrs YOUNG'S.

A smart gentle Lady about 22 years of age, brown hair, full-faced and pretty good teeth. She is not bad tempered, but very fly and artful in her profession. It is somewhat strange, that this lady, like a number of the female world, should so much, contrary to her real inclination, take particular pleasure in teasing her admirers, and baulking her own natural desire, to keep her lovers in pain. She is the character of a woman as drawn by Otway in his Tragedy of the Orphan.

"Intolerable vanity ! your sex
Was never in the right, y'are always false
Or silly ; even your dresses are not more
Fantastic than your appetites ; you think
Of nothing twice, opinion you have none.
To day y'ere nice, to-morrow not so free ;
Now smile, then frown ; now sorrowful, then glad ;
Now pleased, now not ; and all you know not why ?
Virtue you affect, inconstancy's your practice ;
And when your loose desires once get dominion,
No hungry churl feeds coarser at a feast ;
Ev'ry rank fool goes down" -

However, this Lady is far from being disagreeable, and does her business very well, when once engaged in the pleasures of love.

Mrs HAMILTON, opposite to the Canongate Church.

This Lady is very particular and very private in her amours. She is upon the verge of 40, tall, brown hair, good complexion, and tolerable good teeth. She is extremely affected, and pretends to a great deal of modesty. However she lives in a very prudent manner ; and yet is not unwilling to indulge a friend, when properly applied to, for she absolutely cannot resist the temptations of money, as the poet says,

Whose female heart can gold despise ?
What cat's averse to fish ?

Miss SHEPHERD, at Miss ADAMS'S

THIS Lady is about 20, middle sized, dark brown hair, pale complexion, and tolerable good-natured. Although she is but young, she is pretty much worn in the service, and is no novice at the game, as she generally gives large oblations at the Holy Shrine, and with the greatest devotion.

Miss THOMSON, at Miss NAIRN'S.

THIS Lady is tall and comely, dark brown hair, and good teeth, and very good-natured. She is well qualified for her occupation ; and seldom fails of pleasing her admirers.

Miss KATTY DRUMMOND, to be found at Mrs GRANT'S in Hall's Closs, foot of Blackfrier's Wynd.

THIS Lady is about 20, rather short, fair hair, very fine skin, and a pretty set of teeth. She is remarkably well made, and goes very genteel. She's also fond of her profession, and pursues it with great industry, and seldom fails of giving satisfaction to her lovers, who are numerous.

Miss HUME Dickson's Closs.

THIS Lady, is about 22, short, brown hair, good teeth, and very agreeable. She is entertaining in company, and performs her business with great agility.

Miss MENZIES, back of Bess Wynd.

THIS Lady is about 19, is tall, fair hair, good skin and teeth, and agreeable in her temper. She understands the game of love admirably well ; she's profuse in her favours, and declares she ever will be so.

Miss ANNE CAMPBELL at Miss MENZIES'S.

This Girl is about 18, middle sized, good teeth, and a very fine skin, and very good-natured. She is not behind hand in the least with the above Lady at the game of push-pin ; for she knows all the paces, that are requisite at the Shrine of Venus to admiration.

Miss STEWART in the Grass-market.

THIS Lady is about 20, rather short, fine complexion, and dark brown hair. She is extremely fond of the game, but observes a great deal of decency when she approaches the altar of Venus. We would advise her to accept the offer which a gentleman lately made to her, to enter into the honourable state of matrimony.

Miss LUMSDEN, at Mrs TENANT'S Marlin's Wynd.

This Lady is about 22, fair hair, tall and comely, good skin, and remarkable pretty teeth. The most luxurious appetite of a pampered priest, might be satisfied with such a banquet as this ; if there was any truth in the tales related of Jove, descending to embrace some beautiful mortal, he would certainly before now, have a tete-a-tete with this Lady. She is extremely well made, very good-tempered, and possesses a great deal of merit.

Miss CHALMER'S, Burnet's Closs.

THIS Lady, although last, ought to be mentioned among the first, on account of her merit. She is tall and comely, about 23 years of age, fine complexion, and a beautiful set of teeth. She is really a finished piece, and her whole deportment is agreeable. - In her amours, it is said, she is amorous, and works her lovers desire up to the greatest pitch. In a word,

Almighty love has seized her ev'ry part,
And reigns sole monarch in her lovely heart.

In a few Weeks will be published,

An impartial list of all the private Ladies that pays sacrifices to Venus, such as the Milliners, Mantua-maker's, Servant Maids, and others who have not yet graced this List ; to which will be added, some very curious songs, and a few sentimental toasts.

F I N I S.

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