CHAPTER XXIII. 



CARRIAGES. 



STYLE OF CARRIAGES IN THE UNITED STATES — HOW TO BUY A CARRIAGE — 

 MUST BE ADAPTED TO ITS PURPOSE— THE "WHEEL — THE HUB — THE SPOKES — 

 THE TIRE — THE AXLE— THE SPRINGS — THE SHAFTS AND POLE— THE BODY — 

 THE TOP — THE LEATHER — THE PLATING — THE TRIMMING — THE PAINT- 

 ING—HINTS ON COLORS— HARMONY OF COLOR IN THE TRIMMINGS WITH 

 ladies' COMPLEXION AND DRESS— THE CARE OF THE CARRIAGE— WASH- 

 ING — LUBRICATING —REPAIRING. 



In a countrj wliere riding in carriages is an almost uni- 

 versal custom among those who can afford to keep a horse, 

 the selection of a carriage, and the manner of taking care 

 of it, are subjects of no small importance. 



The vehicle, as soon as it rises above the condition of a 

 ^' business wagon," and is constructed with a view to com- 

 fort, or elegance of appearance, and assumes the character 

 of a "carriage," becomes an article of luxury, although 

 by no means a useless one; and its selection is a question 

 which should exercise both the j udgment and the taste of 

 the purchaser. 



No carriage can really look well if it does not look ser- 

 viceable. If for heavy work, it must be strong and 

 appear strong, without appearing heavy or unwieldy. If 

 for light work, it can hardly appear too light ; for it is so 

 generally known that delicately-made carriages may be 

 very strong, that the light appearance does not convey 

 an idea of weakness. If the carriage be intended to make 

 a rich display, it will be most beautifully finished when 

 most richly decorated. If to be used by persons of mod- 



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