Although it would have been a vast sacrifice, I think I would have
almost given my best pair of shoes for a chance of seeing Billy when
dressed to go to the dancing-school. A boy in his first bosom shirt is
such an amusing sight. You can easily pick one out in a crowd by his
satisfied air, and stiff gait; by the setting back of the shoulders, and
the throwing out of the chest,--as if that smooth, white, starched
expanse did not set out enough of itself! Some have a way of looking up
at gentlemen, as much as to say, _We_ wear bosom shirts! But of course
those of us boys and men who have passed through this experience
remember all about it.
* * * * *
_Lucy Maria to William Henry._