Thrale, by associating
with whom, his external appearance was much improved. He got better
cloaths; and the dark colour, from which he never deviated, was
enlivened by metal buttons. His wigs, too, were much better; and during
their travels in France, he was furnished with a Paris-made wig,
of handsome construction. This choosing of silver buckles was a
negociation: 'Sir, (said he,) I will not have the ridiculous large ones
now in fashion; and I will give no more than a guinea for a pair.' Such
were the PRINCIPLES of the business; and, after some examination, he was
fitted. As we drove along, I found him in a talking humour, of which I
availed myself. BOSWELL. 'I was this morning in Ridley's shop, Sir; and
was told, that the collection called Johnsoniana has sold very much.'
JOHNSON. 'Yet the Journey to the Hebrides has not had a great sale.'
BOSWELL. 'That is strange.' JOHNSON. 'Yes, Sir; for in that book I have
told the world a great deal that they did not know before.'
BOSWELL.
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