All instructions are in British terms.

The pattern calls for Andalusian wool, which was a weight in-between 4ply and 5ply.

The pattern also states it is in Russian crochet. These days, this term generally means that the yarn is cut at the end of each row, so all rows are worked in the same direction. However, this pattern gives instructions to turn at the end of each row, so I assume that in 1888 ‘Russian crochet’ meant something different.

A note on sizing: As this is a vintage pattern from a newspaper, it doesn’t list a size other than ‘infant’. The dress in the picture would fit a preemie baby. It is fairly small (7 inches/ 18cm across chest). It was produced with 4py yarn, a 4mm hook, and a gauge of 25 stitches and 26 rows to 10cm. Larger ply, hook, or a looser tension would all create a larger size. This pattern would also be very easy to alter. Either measure the baby in question, or check a size chart for average measurements, and then either add more length or width as required (the pattern is symmetrical).