Sentence:  The Irish cloak forms very graceful drapery; the material falls well, and folds well. It is usually large enough to envelop the whole person; and the hood is frequently drawn forward to shield the face of the wearer from sun, rain, or wind. Yet we would fain see its general use dispensed with. A female in the lower ranks of life cares but little for the other portions of her dress if she has "a good cloak;" and certainly her ordinary appearance would be more thought of, if the huge "<WSD>cover-slut</WSD>" were not always at hand to hide dilapidations in her other garments. 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  An apron or pinafore, worn to hide slovenliness (such as dirt, stains or tears) in the clothing beneath.