It was probably the evanescent character of what was called its "art-colour" which ended the career of an estimable material, and if the manufacturers had known how to eliminate its faults and adapt its virtues, it might still have been a flourishing textile.
In truth, we do not often stop to analyse the reasons of prolonged popular favour; yet nothing is more certain than that there is reason, and good reason, for fidelity in public taste.

Popular liking, if continued, is always founded upon certain incontrovertible virtues.

If a manufacture cannot hold its own for ever in public favour, it is because it fails in some important particular to be what it should be.

Products of the loom must have lasting virtues if they would secure lasting esteem.

Blue denim had its hold upon public use principally for the reason that it possessed a colour superior to all the chances and accidents of its varied life.