'DISTANCE OF STANDING, &c.
The proper distance of the lines formed by the Ladies and Gentlemen from each other is about four feet and a half, and the distance of the respective couples from each other is about two feet and a half.
The proper distance and the keeping of the lines truly parallel is necessary to the correct performance of the Figures, every person in the set having thereby an opportunity of seeing the various evolutions of the Figure performed by the leading couple, which very frequently proves of the greatest utility to those persons in the Dance unacquainted with the Figures, and prevents the confusion that would otherwise occur.'
The average modern person has a shoulder width of around 18 inches. Applying this to Wilsons numbers and adding a foot to allow for depth means that 3 couples will require a space of approximately 58 square feet just to stand.
Wilson's reference to the 'seeing the various evolutions' reminds us that, unlike modern balls, the Georgian practice was for the top couple to chose the figures and others would join in as they progressed down the set.
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