Note 152 — Chapter XLIV

Fraunces was a man of taste in his profession, and was fond of display, regardless of expense. On this account the president had frequent occasion to reprove him. He desired to live conformably to his high station, but he naturally abhorred waste and extravagance, and insisted that his household should be conducted with due regard to economy and usefulness. An illustrative anecdote is given. The first shad of the season was bought by Fraunces for the table of Washington, who was very fond of fish. It was served for breakfast in the best style, and set before the president, who asked the steward, “What kind of fish is this?”—"A fine shad,” replied Fraunces. “It is very early in the season for shad,” said the president; “how much did you pay for it?”—"Two dollars,” responded the steward. “Two dollars!” exclaimed the president. “I can never encourage this extravagance at my table; take it away—I will not touch it.” The shad was removed; and the steward, who felt no repugnance to the fish on account of its cost, made of it a hearty breakfast for himself.