Umbrellas

In Swift's description of a city shower (*Tatler*, No. 238., October 17. 1710), umbrellas are mentioned as in common use by women: "Now in contiguous drops the flood comes down, Threatening with deluge the devoted town; To shops, in crowds, the daggled females fly, Pretend to cheapen goods, but nothing buy; The Templar spruce, while every spout's abroach, Stays till 'tis fair, yet seems to call a coach; The tucked-up sempstress walks with hasty strides, While streams run down her oiled umbrella's sides."