Democratic Sentinel, Volume 11, Number 44, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 25 November 1887 — Foot Gear. [ARTICLE]

Foot Gear.

Never try to wear a shoe too small, or that does not fit you when you first put it on. There is no longer any necessity for “breaking-in a shoe.” “Science” has removed all necessity for physical endurance in this direction. Having procured a comfortable fit, keep it so by proper care. Never let your shoe get hard or dry. Don’t let it run down at the heel or side. Never wear into the welt or insole. A shoe repaired in time will retain its shape and comfort, and is true economy. Never put wet shoes by the fire to dry, but dry them gradually and slowly. . Never dry a wet shoe without first applying some oil and grease—castor oil and tallow is the best. The steam generated in a wet boot or shoe will surely scald it and cause it to crack. Don’t use too much force in polishing. A gentle brushing with a soft brush is better than the vigorous work of the bootblack. When the brushing makes your foot feel warm stop until your shoe cools off. Don’t allow a thick crust of blacking on your shoes. Wash it off occasionally and apply a little castor oil; you can polish it over in an hour or two. Never try on or handle a patentleather shoe when cold—always thoroughly warm it before bending the leather. A patent-leather shoe put on in a warm room can be worn out in the cold weather without injury. Never put a good pair of shoes in rubbers—use an old pair for this, and withdraw the rubbers as soon as you enter a house. There is no part of a gentleman’s or lady’s outfit that requires more care than the footwear, and, as a rule, none receives les?.