HATS. 



343 



third of an inch in width, are provided with plated double 

 buckles, and are made of pipe-clayed leather for white 

 breeches, and of brown leather for rat-catcher. Since about 

 1880, garter straps have gradually superseded knee ties, which 



Fig. 231. Double oxer : rails about 3 ft. high ; and about loft, apart. 



are now worn only by sportsmen of the old school. They 

 consist of white leather ribbons put round the leg and tied in 

 a bow just below the fourth button of the breeches. 



A tall hat furnished with a hat guard of black cord, 

 is the correct head-gear for hunting. Many years ago, the 

 stiff velvet cap was largely used, but is now seldom worn 



