96   DRIVING FOR PLEASURE.

should be provided, one to be used on the panels, etc., and the other on the undercarriage. When the mud shows a tendency to harden, a sponge full of water should be gently sopped against it until it is so softened that it may be wiped off without scratching the surface. Hot water must not be used on any account, as it is ruinous to the varnish. A wet chamois should be used after the carriage has been carefully sponged, providing, of course, every bit of sand and grit has already been removed. A damp or wet cloth or sponge should never be used on the morocco upholstering of a carriage.

The practice of using soap around the axles and hub is prevalent with many coachmen, and can not be too severely condemned ; a little turpentine may be used to remove the grease. Many of them also have the habit of swashing the water all over the carriage, regardless of the trimming and the various interstices, which results in the bulging of many a panel. There is what is termed a well-hole in the door off any heavy carriage with window glass, which furnishes a ready receptacle for water. Most coachbuilders put a couple of small holes at the bottom of the door to furnish an outlet for the water ; but coachmen rarely keep these holes clear, generally allowing them to fill up with dirt and sand, thus rendering them useless for the purpose for which they are intended.