Page:Mrs Beeton's Book of Household Management.djvu/2006

1802 1. Mix in a phial 1 drachm of chlorate of potass with 2 ozs. of distilled water, and when the salt is dissolved, add 2 ozs. of muriatic acid. Then shake well together in another phial 3 ozs. of strong spirits of wine, with an ⅓ oz. of the essential oil of lemons; unite the contents of the two phials, and keep the liquids thus prepared closely corked for use. This chemical liquid should be applied with a clean sponge, and dried in a gentle heat, after which the boot-tops may be polished with a soft brush, and they will appear like new leather.

Fine clothes require to be brushed lightly, and with a rather soft brush, except where mud is to be removed, when a hard one is necessary; previously beat the clothes lightly to dislodge the dirt. Lay the garment on a table, and brush in the direction of the nap. Having brushed it properly turn the sleeves back to the collar, so that the folds may come at the elbow-joints; next turn the lapels or sides back over the folded sleeves; then lay the skirts over level with the collar, so that the crease may fall about the centre, and double one half over the other, so that the fold comes in the centre of the back.

Mix equal quantities of benzine and water, and after well brushing the hat apply the mixture with a sponge.

Shred finely some pure indiarubber, and dissolve it in naphtha to the consistency of a stiff paste. Apply the cement to each side of the part to be joined, and leave a cold iron upon it until dry.

Close all doors and windows tightly, and hold a wet blanket in front of the fire to prevent any draught going up the chimney.

Twice a month wash the head with a quart of soft water, in which a handful of bran has been boiled, and in which a little white soap has been dissolved. Next rub the yolk of an egg, slightly beaten, into the roots of the hair, let it remain a few minutes, and wash it off thoroughly with pure water, rinsing the head well. Wipe and rub the hair dry with a towel, and comb the hair up from the head, parting it with the fingers. If the hair has been very dry before the washing, a little pomatum should be used.