"A very eminent Brewer, and one I know to be a very honest Gentleman, wants an Apprentice. I can give an account of him."
In what sense the word "honest" must here be taken it is difficult to define. As an eminent brewer, we should naturally conclude he must have been an honest man. He is here very eminent and very honest.
"Many Masters want Apprentices, and many Youths want Masters. If they apply themselves to me, I'll strive to help them. Also for variety of valuable services."
Here is the editor of a paper offering his help to masters and apprentices for their mutual good. Let us suppose an advertisement of this kind appearing in _The Times_ of our own day. Printing-house Square would not contain a tithe of the individuals who would present themselves for the reception of this accommodating aid. In such a case the editors (as it regards their particular duties) would be cyphers, for a continuous absorption of their time would necessarily occur in the carrying out of this benevolent offer. This advertisement may be considered as _multum in parvo_, giving the wants of the many in an announcement of three or four lines, connecting them with a variety of services which in those days were thought to be valuable. How greatly are we assisted by these little incidents in forming correct views of the state of society at that period.
The next advertisement shows the value set upon the services of one who was to perform the duties of a clerk, and to play well on the violin.
"If any young Man that plays well on a Violin, and writes a good Hand, desires a Clerkship, I can help him to Twenty Pounds a year."
Of course twenty pounds was of more value then than it is now: still it seems a small sum for the performance of such duties, for twelve months. Here is musical talent required for the amusement of others, in combination with the daily duties of a particular profession. An efficient musician, and a good writer, and all for 20_l._ per annum! We learn by the editor's "I can help him," his readiness to assist all who would advertise in his journal, to obtain those employments which their advertisements specified.
"A Grocer of good business desires an Apprentice of good growth."
The "good growth" must have been intended to convey the idea of height and strength.