I read that Tallow + Steel has a new formula for its soap, but I’m resisting the temptation to buy. I assume it’s an improvement on this formula—artisans normally reformulate to improve the soap, corporations to reduce the cost of production (and thus increase profit)—but the one I have is already excellent in all regards, including the fragrance.
“Grog,” of course, is the word for the British Naval drink of watered rum. The name derives from “grogram” (a coarse fabric made of silk, often combined with mohair or wool and stiffened with gum), not a natural connection. But Admiral Vernon (1684–1757) of the British Navy, known as “Old Grog” because of the grogram cloak he wore, in 1740 first ordered diluted (instead of neat) rum to be served out to sailors—thus, “grog” became the name of the beverage.
My Rooney Victorian made a fine lather, and I returned with somewhat of a sense of relief to my reliable 102, which would be my desert-island razor. I tried lightening up the pressure more, after reading Michael’s comment to yesterday’s post, and it did a very nice job indeed: smooth and trouble-free result.
A splash of Grog aftershave, and I’m ready for the day.