U.S. Military Academy West Point 15 Sept: 1853
General.
It is found that the black stripe, down the outer seam of the riding pantaloons, for the Cadets, is soon worn off by the Sabre, & constantly liable to be torn off by contact with the horses on either side.
The Instructor of Arty & Cavalry Tactics therefore proposes that it be replaced by a black welt, the first cost of which will be 8¢ less than the stripe & not require such perpetual repairing.
Although the saving in expense will be small, it is still desirable on the score of convenience.
I therefore propose that par 95. Acady. Regns be modified as follows.
95. Trowsers—.
For Riding. gray kersey; reinforced on the inside; black welt 1/8 of an inch “diameter, down the outer seam; faced at bottom with black leather for the space of “eight inches; outer seam slashed at bottom the same length.”
I have the honor to be. Your obedt Servt
Sigd. R. E. Lee. Br. Col:
Supt. Mil. Acady
Superintendent's Daily Correspondence United States Military Academy
Superintendent's Letter Book No. 3, p. 52. Addressed “Genl: Jos: G. Totten Chief Engineer Washington City D.C.”