AN EMPEROR'S OUTFIT.

Southland Times, Issue 862, 9 December 1867, Page 3

AN EMPEROR'S OUTFIT.

A curious letter of Napoleon I. has been brought to light in the last volume of his correspondence, just published, which shows how precise his ideas were on the subject of clothing in a rather unexpectad way. It is addressed, under date August, 1811, to General Duroc, Grand Marshal of his Palace, and instructs him to act," for the time as keeper of the imperial wardrobe and to order a fresh supply of the articles required by the Emperor. A list in full, in the Emperor's own hand, is annexed. The Emperor orders his outfit in full detail — the number of articles, the price, and the dates of delivery being stated with astonishing minuteness. Imprimis : two grenadier's and two chasseur's coats with epaulettes ; each is to cost £14 8s ; but each must last three years ; two hunting coats, one for coursing, and one for shooting, each £17 ; two frock coats, price £8 each; four dozen pairs of breeches, and the same number of white waistcoasts, to cost £143, all likewise to last three years. Then we have the underclothing, The Emperor orders, among other things, four dozen flannel vests, four dozen shirts, and the same number of handkerchiefs, to be worn at the rate of one a week, but to last three years ; and a dozen black stocks, ona a month. Then he orders boots and shoes, and four hats per annum, the total of the little bill being £656.— Q-alignani 's Messenger.