the
costly adornments in the pride of life and with the most precious
articles of merchandise. From that day, with the extension of commerce,
and the growth of Western nations in affluence and refinement, the
demand for pearls grew and spread until even the rude island of Britain
learned to appreciate them.
The
quantities of large and beautiful pearls stored in the treasure-houses
of Hindu princes suggest that they have existed as jewels in India for
a very long period, but for how many centuries cannot be definitely
stated. The probability is that in very remote ages, rude fishermen of
tropic seas all over the world, while fishing for food were attracted
by the lustrous objects found occasionally in the oysters which they
gathered and that they saved them as things likely to please some maid
or matron of their affections. A favor for them once established, they
would be sought, and with the growth of intelligence and refinement
would come increased appreciation. There is a close analogy in all
things between the development of the individual and nations, and even
of the world. Each progresses on the same lines,
62
