[…] with the exception of the Speaker, who is handsomely arrayed in a black gown and long wig, and three attendant clerks, who are also begowned and bewigged, the house exhibits nothing more than some ranges of green benches, sparingly occupied with a few straggling members, lounging about in the most unceremonious postures, some with coloured cravats, others with dirty boots, and almost all […] with their hats on.