He wears a
broad-brimmed, low-crowned hat; a huge roll of colored
handkerchief about his neck, knowingly knotted and tucked in at
the bosom; and has in summer-time a large bouquet of flowers in
his buttonhole, the present, most probably, of some enamored
country lass. His waistcoat is commonly of some bright color,
striped, and his small-clothes extend far below the knees, to
meet a pair of jockey boots which reach about halfway up his
legs.
All this costume is maintained with much precision; he has a
pride in having his clothes of excellent materials, and,
notwithstanding the seeming grossness of his appearance, there is
still discernible that neatness and propriety of person which is
almost inherent in an Englishman. He enjoys great consequence and
consideration along the road; has frequent conferences with the
village housewives, who look upon him as a man of great trust and
dependence; and he seems to have a good understanding with every
bright-eyed country lass. The moment he arrives where the horses
are to be changed, he throws down the reins with something of an
air and abandons the cattle to the care of the ostler, his duty
being merely to drive from one stage to another. When off the box
his hands are thrust into the pockets of his great coat, and he
rolls about the inn-yard with an air of the most absolute
lordliness.
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