Exquisite dandies [graphic]

"A dandy lies back fainting in a chair, his limbs rigid, supported by three others while a fourth (left) draws the curtain, cutting off a view of the (distant) stage where a singer is posturing. The three supporters say: "I am so frighten'd I can hardly stand!"; "mind you dont soil the Dear's linnen," and, "I dread the consequence! that last Air of Signeur Nonballenas has thrown him in such raptures, we must call a Doctor --[a name has been erased] immediately!" The last holds a bottle of 'Eau de Colonge' [sic] to the patient's nostril. The fourth turns to say: "I must draw the curtain or his screams will alarm the House--you have no fello feeling my dear fellos, pray unlace the dear loves Stays, and lay him on the Couch." The box is large with couch (right) and table with decanters, dish of peaches, and two candles. On the floor beside a low-crowned hat is a fan. The four dandies register consternation. All are dressed in the usual manner, two wear wide short trousers, the others tight breeches or pantaloons. For dandies as epicene creatures see also Nos. 13239, 13394, 13447."--British Museum online catalogue