CLEANING CAKRIAGES. 149 



washing, the dry one for polishing the glass of the windows 

 and plated work of the wheels, doors, &c. A duster and 

 fine-haired brush will be required for the cushions and 

 lining, whether it be an open or covered carriage. The 

 first movement in the washing of a fine varnished carriage 

 is to move it where sand and dirt will not fly against it, by 

 the splashing of water on the ground or floor. Such a 

 place is provided in city or private stables; not so, however, 

 in all livery and country stables; but where care is one of 

 the elements of a coachman's nature, he will have a round 

 or sparred rack, the full length and breadth of his carriage, 

 constructed out of any kind of spars laid on the ground, 

 upon which the carriage stands till washed. The next 

 movement is to close the windows, put down the curtains, 

 if it be an open carriage, remove the cushions to where 

 they will not get wet, and commence by throwing an abun- 

 dance of cold water all over the carriage, at first on the top, 

 which will also wet the lower parts in its descent. This is 

 important, especially if the vehicle be very muddy, so that 

 no force other than the water will be required to remove 

 it. This being accomplished, the top and panels may 

 then be slightly washed with clear water with the sponge 

 kept for this purpose. Allow the water to drip ofi" whilst 

 the under carriage and wheels are being sponged, and when 

 all are cleanly washed, sponge with their respective 

 sponges, moist, but not wet ; after which dry with the wet 

 or damp wash-leather. The carriage may now be opened 

 and the curtains rolled up, the mountings of silver, or 



