Mrs. Clarke's petticoat
[London] : Pubd by S W Fores n° 50 Piccadilly Feby 23 1809, February 23, 1809.
Library's copy trimmed within plate mark.
Formerly owned by Sir Robert Peel.
A figure with the cocked hat of the Duke of York supported on a crosier issuing from a mitre. This mitre rests on a flat surface inscribed 'Magic Circle' and representing the waist of Mrs. Clarke. From this hangs a petticoat, short enough to reveal the Duke's boots, the base of the figure. Round the hem of the petticoat is a broad blue band, representing the Garter ribbon, and inscribed 'HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE'. From the waist hangs a pocket filled with guineas. Below the title: 'Under this may be found a soothing for every pain, a remedy for every sorrow & a reward for every trouble--here the lover may find bliss--the hero rest & the Church Man as comfortable a repose as can be obtained on earth--here no diplomas are required to substantiate merit--no proofs necessary to be given of Genius Talents or Honor no impediments of Want of Virtue, Character or Reputation, but any one may slip in unperceived (secrecy being Observed) & meet the reward of his laudable ambition provided he can deposite a few Guineas in the pocket appended or lodge a reasonable deposit at Coutt's or Clarke's & C° Gloucester place'
Peel, Robert, 1788-1850, former owner.