Times have much changed since this was penned, tobacco is now the staple commodity, and the source of “the main business” of Virginia.

To labor hard.

Marshy; from the French marais, a marsh.

Gewgaws, or spangles.

He alludes to Ecclesiastes v. 11, the words of which are somewhat varied in our version: “When goods increase, they are increased that eat them; and what good is there to the owners thereof, saving the beholding of them with their eyes?”

“The rich man’s wealth is his strong city.”—Proverbs x. 15; xviii. 11.

“In his anxiety to increase his fortune, it was evident that not the gratification of avarice was sought, but the means of doing good.”

“He who hastens to riches will not be without guilt.” In our version the words are: “He that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.”—Proverbs xxviii. 22.

Pluto being the king of the infernal regions, or place of departed spirits.

Rent-roll, or account taken of income.