general washington was now appointed commander-in-chief of all the troops at the second session of the continental congress. on his arrival at boston there were only fourteen thousand men. he took command under the historic elm at cambridge. he was dressed in a blue broadcloth coat with flaps and revers of same, trimmed with large beautiful buttons. he also wore buff small-clothes, with openings at the sides where pockets are now put in, but at that time given up to space. they were made in such a way as to prevent the naked eye from discovering at once whether he was in advance or retreat. he also wore silk stockings and a cocked hat.