Inspiring.

Did you know that Verdi wrote "Falstaff" when he was 80?

He'd worked almost nonstop for 60 years, was considered by many to be the greatest living composer on earth.

Yet, as one critic said, "he startled the art world with a consummate masterpiece written with all the verve and vitality of youth."

You need strong character to live a life like that.

Inspiring 19th-Century Tweed Slacks (No. 2526). Verdi, Walt Whitman, the Mellons. Hard workers from solid European stock. Just like these pants. Sturdy 100% wool, but soft. Perfect for sitting for long periods and doing some serious thinking.

Classic European tailoring not seen since the late 19th century. Lined to the knee, they have a high-back cut because they were meant to be worn with suspenders, not a belt. Two large front pockets, watch pocket, notched waist band. Faux horn buttons.

Think of the great things you'll accomplish.

Men's even sizes: 32 through 46. Hemming (37" max.), $2 per pair.

Color: Slate gray, Sedimentary Brown. Imported.

No Worries. Empire building is hard work.

Hang it all, the last thing you want to worry about is your pants falling down.

That's why all the great industrialists – Andrew Carnegie, J.P. Morgan, George Pullman – wore suspenders. Just like these.

Braided Suspenders (No. 2572). Carnegie probably called them "braces."

Made of luxurious handwoven Italian leather. Elastic back straps. And button holes (never clips). Put them on and you'll be imbued with a sense of purpose and authority.

Perfect for negotiating oil rights in Azerbaijan, buying rum by the tanker car in Havana, plotting hostile takeovers.

Size: One size fits most.

Color: Brown with natural colored elastic.