It is difficult to remove the varnish by means of a solvent from patent leather boots; it is better to tree these up tight and rub down with No. 1 1/2 sandpaper, then with No. 1, and finally with flour sandpaper, and when the surface is smooth, to revarnish. The above process will also be suitable if the boots are of calf. But if it is desired afterwards to clean the boots with blacking, first soften the old varnish with a little spirits of wine on a piece of good cloth, and then apply a coat of dubbin.