e result of her
influence. Before he became acquainted with her, in one of his orders
sent to England appears the following:

"Two pairs fine worked ruffles, at 20s. per pair.

"Two sets complete shoe brushes.

"Six pairs thread hose at 5s.

"Enough superfine blue cotton velvet for coat, waistcoat, and
breeches, with fine silk buttons to match, and necessary
trimmings, with garters for the breeches.

"Six pairs of the very neatest shoes; two pairs double
chancelled pumps; two pairs turned ditto; and two pairs stitched
shoes; to be made by Didsberry, over Col. Beiler's last.

"Six pairs gloves; three pairs for riding, with slit tops."

As if fearing that the claims of fashion might not be carefully
regarded, he added, "If worked ruffles should be out of fashion, send
such as are not."

An order for an outfit for horse-back riding shows how much attention
was paid to comfort and appearance at that time among the wealthy
planters of Virginia:

"One man's riding-saddle, hogskin seat, large-plated stirrups,
and everything complete; double-reined bridle and Pelham bit,
plated.

"A very neat and fashionable Newmarket saddle-cloth.

"A large and best portmanteau, saddle, bridle, and pillion.

"Cloak-bag, surcingle, checked saddle-cloth, holster, &c.

"A riding-frock of a handsome drab-colored broadcloth, with
plain, double-gilt buttons.

"A riding waistcoat of superfine scarlet cloth and gold lace,
with buttons like those of the coat.

"A blue surtout coat.

"A neat switch whip, silver cap.

"Black velvet cap for servant."

Mrs. Washington devoted herself to the education of her two children,
six and four years of age at the time of her marriage with Washington.
Had their own father been living, he could not have co-operated with
their mother more cheerfully and tenderly than Washington did. Their
father left a fortune to each of them, and that fact determined the
character and methods of their training, agreeable to the custom of that
day and locality. The following order for articles for the children is
quite instructive as to the management of the Mount Vernon home:

"For Master Custis, _6 years old_."

"One piece Irish Holland, at 4s.

"Two yards fine cambric, at 10s.

"Six pocket handkerchiefs, small and fine.

"Six pairs gloves.

"Two laced hats.