With all of the elaborate attention to every detail and the expenditure of sixty thousand dollars to make this event surpass all previous affairs and meet every possible demand in the emergency of unprecedented numbers, there was no provision made for any undue weather emergency, and what heating facilities had been installed were wholly inadequate, and the ball was a frosty horror. People came bundled to the eyes in furs and wraps, and danced in their overcoats and furs to keep warm. The arrival of the presidential party was announced by the Marine Band with “Hail to the Chief.” The platform, like the remainder of the great hall, was so cold that the ladies kept their ball dresses covered with their wraps. The reception moved along rapidly, in consequence. The excellent hot supper served to them was most welcome. Mrs. Grant’s gown, of white satin, was covered entirely by flounces of black Brussels lace and trimmed with lavender. Miss Nellie Grant, the White House belle, who stood by her mother, was much observed in her girlish dress of white illusion over white silk. White flowers furnished the garniture for dress and hair. The gowns of the ladies of the Cabinet were all notable for their elegance and beauty, and while the records of details are meagre, some of the publications of the day did carry enough description to give at least an idea of colours selected, for one account tells that: “Miss Fish wore a rich pearl-coloured silk, with flounces of point lace, an ermine cape and diamonds; Mrs. Boutwell cameo-tinted silk; Miss Boutwell, light blue silk; Mrs. Cresswell, white silk and black velvet; Mrs. Williams, pearl-coloured satin with cherry trimmings with a bandeau of gold and diamonds in her hair; Mrs. Delano, a pompadour dress of blue and pink; Mrs. Cooke, wife of the District Governor, emerald satin and velvet.” Contrary to plans, the canaries did not sing. Not a bird vouchsafed a single chirp. Instead, paralyzed with cold, they huddled in little, shivering yellow balls, with their heads tucked under their wings to try to keep from freezing--the fate that befell most of them. The champagne and ice creams were frozen solid. No one wanted them, but the hot drinks were in demand. The presidential party remained only a short time, and the entire assemblage, after paying twenty dollars apiece for tickets, deserted the “Muslin Palace” before midnight--long before the ball would have been in full swing under comfortable conditions. With the inaugural ceremonies over, the President had once more to concentrate his attention on his official duties. Vacancies had to be filled. One of the most important was that on the Supreme Court, following the death of Chief Justice Chase on May 7, 1873. Political preference was slinging sledge-hammer blows to and for those whose names were presented.