f any calculation of the
number of Gypsies in the nation.

It has not come to the knowledge of the writer, what foundation there has
been for the report commonly circulated, that a Member of Parliament had
stated to the House of Commons, when speaking to some question relating
to Ireland; that there were not less than 36,000 Gypsies in Great
Britain.

To make up such an aggregate, the numerous hordes must have been
included, who traverse most of the nation with carts and asses, for the
sale of earthenware, and live out of doors great part of the year, after
the manner of the Gypsies.--These potters, as they are commonly called,
acknowledge that Gypsies have intermingled with them, and their habits
are very similar. They take their children along with them on travel,
and, like the Gypsies, regret that they are without education.

It has already appeared in Baillie Smith's report, that the Gypsies in
Scotland, of late years, have had recourse to a similar occupation in the
sale of earthenware, which, as they mostly attend fairs, is a mode of
life remarkably adapted to their inclination.

Some pains have been taken among the potteries in Staffordshire, to
procure information of the number of families of this description, which
annually apply to purchase the refuse of their wares; but no return has
been made.

The application to the Sheriffs of Scotland, procured from the counties
prompt and decisive reports; and it is not probable that any measure,
short of an order to the constables of every township, to take an account
on the same day, throughout England, would be sufficient for ascertaining
Gypsey population.

For this purpose a patrole might be necessary, on one and the same day,
in each township, particularly in lanes and situations shaded in summer.
If notice of the requisition were to be communicated to constables, a few
days before, with directions not to disclose the object, further than the
necessary provision for it required; it is probable, that a sufficiently
correct estimate might be formed, of the aggregate number in the nation.

Such an account might extend also to the itinerant potters, and the
number of their children: or if the potters take out a Hawker's and
Pedlar's licence, a return of their numbers might be obtained from the
proper office. There is reason to think that many of these dealers have
acquired property, who, nevertheless take lodgings for the winter,
instead of renting houses; wh