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So much has been written ou household and domestio affairs tliat it may seem to many a worn-out topic, about winch nothi^ig more of interest or importance can be writ- ten. But "the household," as we interpret it, is an inexhaustible theme. To become an ex|)ert even in the simplest forms of the manual labourconuected with it,deinandscon- tinual watchfulness and attention. Instruc- tions must be repeated daily and, hardest of all, patiently. They must be modified or en- larged, under the changes that are a part of a housekeeper's burdens, so as to allow for and control the different individual charac- ters tliat come under the mistress's care for counsel and direction. All this demands no small skill and labour. Those who, after some practice, have learned to feel at home in all the departments connected with domestic affairs, naturally begin to venture on experiments, hoping that each trial may bring to light some new their accus- ug out after and better way of performing tomed labours. This reachii _ something better, if not easier, is not confined to housekeepers alone. Tlie farmer aspires to perfection when experimenting with seed- lings. He brings them forward with great care to a perfect growth and up to full bear- ing, knowing well that not one in a hundred, probably, of all tiiat has been so tenderly nursed will prove of any value ; but his courage does not desert him ; for, if only one develops into a fruit or flower far surpassing the original, he is abundantly rewarded, and stinmlated to ftew efforts. So, while many experiments in the end- less labonra belonging to domestic affairs fall to the ground, yet a Tew now and then are developed, and, under the nursing of good, practical common-sense, are foind trust- worthy, aad of such importance as to super- cede long-established notioni. Every year oontribute something new and valuaole, of undoubted advantage to young housekeepers, aside from "the line U))on line and precept u|)ou precept" which will ever be found in- dispensable by all experienced persons. But the manual laliour and trie thorough knowleearing some cross. No path ever led to tliat which was worth honest effort without some thorns. No woman can build a most precious home who doen not well understann that she must, for the crown that is set before, cheerfully accept much labour, sutFering, and self-sacrifice. We have thought much of late of the incon- sistencies and discrepancies that so often disturb the harmrmy of otherwise perfect families, and as we pass on, would now and then bring these mistakes and shortcomings before you, as beacon -fires to guide you safe* ly past the "breakers." ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. A HOME OF YOUR OWN. The home-education of our daughters ia often Badly lu'gluoted. IiiduLMUt nmthera, keupin^ their auuj^hters in achoul from ear- liest childhooa«s frutn the suhool- room into married life, and on their titHt en- trance into Boeit'ty are tranMfurnied from simple suhool-girls into wives and house- keepers ? It no part of child-life is devoted to those lessons which none should be able to teauh bO kindly and so thoroughly as u mother, what ia tliv reHult? Tlie home which the lover dreamed of proves comfortle8S,and is soon ex- changed for a boarding-house, and the bride is too often trannfomied into the heartless devotee of fashion insteail of being the 'helpmeat' God designed a \« ife to Im. If love in a cottage '' flies out a window," it would certainly take to itself wings to escape the discomfort of a boardin^;-house. Young lailies would soon discover the richer life there is in one's own horn*', if they were early instructed in an intimate kuow- ledge of the whole routine of home duties ana household mysteries, so that, when exalted to the dignity of tiie mistress of a house, they could, with goc/d judgment and intelligence, direct their servants, if com- pelled to keep any — or, iudepeudeutly, per- form the work of a small familv, easily and methodically, with their own hands. Such knowledge and ability to execute would greatly augment domestic happiness. When the children have grown up and scattered, "the old folks " may perhaps find a pleasant rest in a quiet boarding house ; yet what will the "little ones " do if they cannot come to "grandpa's house," and what attractions can grandparents oifer them in a boarding house? True, there is much that is hard and dis- agreeable in household cares and labours ; but what good thing do we possess that did not require thought, effort, and often un- pleasant work, before we name into the full possession and enjoyment of it ? Yet there II great comfort, under any self-denial or hardship experienced in the performan ^e of duty, in the knowledge that, the duties being once mastered, the thought of drudg- ery connected with them disappears ; and, in the happy consciousness of independence and power over difficulties, one finds great pleasure and a full compensation. To give some guidance iu the path of mak- ing home happy and oomfortable \m our sim> pie aim. We endeavour to deal with both the general principles and the scientific details of housekeeping. We hope to be able to furnish many recipet which we know from personal experience or reliable sourcss to be gooer8 trv them witii their own hands, and not turn tneui over to the tender mercies of Bridget ;" or, if that is impossible, we would add to this re<{ucst that they atttri- bute failures to the ignorance or inex))erience of the experimenter, and not to tlie worth- lossnesH of the recipe. Furnishing the liouse is, of course, the first step, if young people arti sensible a»d begin their mairied life in a home of their own ; but this work de|)en*ds ho entirely on the taste of those who are to occupy it that only a tew general rules can ba given. One should aim at good taste even in the humblest home. If you cannot afford the most costly furniture, there is no reason why you should not endeavour to secure articles of neat and attractive shai>e and colour' A coarse, ungainly sci'oll in a carpet, with ill-matched and sombre colours, M'ill cost as much as a neat and tasteful pattern, with fresh, bright hues harnioniouHly blended, and with graceful vines and flowers, true to Nature, in both shape and colour. The one will make you gloomy and dissatisfied every time you see it, perlmps without knowing why : the Aher will give an air of comfort auu contentment to your home, and make you as happy and cheerful about your duties as the uirdsamonu your flowers. The cheerfulness and attractiveness of your rooms depend more largely upon the style and colour of your carpets than upon the furuituru. To secure fast and durable colours, great care and good judgment are indispensable. The colours that " hold fast their integrity " the longest are fortunately ..le most beautiful. Tht^se that are easily '.eface«l by sun, or daily use, may be attractive at first, but the pleasure is of short duration. Set figuiee, on medallion patterns, are not graceful, and the colours, for the most part, are not durable. Light-coloured carpets, al- though often very enticing, seldom prove satisfactory. They need to be kept in darkened rooms, only occasionally lightcil up for exhibition to visitors, or their charms will be very evanescent. A few weeks' constant wear would compel one to ailmit " that a thing of beauty" is not always "a joy forever. Some very sensible housekeep* ers consider light colours the most desirable, particularly for chambers, under the imprea* ALL AROUND THE H0U8B. lion that thoy will not be soiled bo readily as darker Hha«l«3H. On tlio contrary, we think that altiiuugh a foot-mark, or dust that cati l>e easily removed, may be noticed sooner on a dark surface, if not well covered with fig« ures, yet light colours fade and become per- nianently defaced much (juicker. By cons- tant use they soon have a dingy look that quite destroys their original beauty. Bright, clear scarlets and dark, rich greens usually wear well, retaining their beauty ** clear down to ohl age." Most crimsons, especially the crimaous of the present day, so largely tinged with m»genta, are liable to fade and become dim, except in the richest carpets, and are not very sure even in them. Blue and brown, or olue and oak, are not a good combination. Blue tarnishes more easily than almost any other colour ; and blue and oak do not give a cheerful look to a room. The variety of styles in useful and orna- mental furniture is ho very numerous, we can only say in passing that the same general rules hold good as are given for selecting carpets. Bring to the work correct juag- inent, good taste, and grunt care in selecting forms and colours tlint will hM'mcnize with the wall-pai)ei"s and carpet-., and then your own preferences and abili^iy to gratify them must l>e your guides. In furniMhing a kitchen, first settle in your own miml how much are you willing or able to spend upon it. If your menus are ample ■elect the best of everything, bu^notin such profusion as to overload your Titchen, and increase, rather than simplify, labour. Do not buy any new invention until fully per-' Bunded that it is an improvement on older Btyles. If not able, in every particular, to grntify your taste in furniMhing your house, spare something from your parlours that you may add real coiiveniuiiccs and comforts to your kitchen jthatis, if you have health sutfi- cient to keep a rigorous and unceasing super- vision, or can do the workyourselt ; but, if either of these courses is impossible, it seems of little importam-e what you get. It ser- vants rule your kitchen, you will surely Ik> compelled to replenish every few months. A case of drawers shouhl be in every kitc- hen-closet — ohe for bread -clothes and blankets, and meat and rish cloths ; another for kitchen table-cloths, roller-towels, dish- towels, and cook's holders ; another where soiled table-linen can l>e neatly folded ready for the wash ; and if you have not a laundry separate from the kitchen, a fourth drawer for ironing-blankets and sheets, bosom-board and holders, is desirable. F)ach article f^ould be plainly marked and scrupulously #»ed for its appropriate work, an«l for noth- ing else. Let the directions for their use be distinctly stated, and then accept no excuse either from yourself or a servantfor violating the rule. "A place for everything and every- thitiff in its pt(pe, " and used for its own work, should be the recognized law for every part of the house, but especially in the kitchen, and any deviation' from it should be met at once with just rebuke. Disorder, waste, and tilth, in the kitchen are tooeafiily |)assed over by those who depend on servants, Iwcause the mistress shrinks from the constant over■^ sight and conflict. It is true that eternal vigilance, much patience and forbearance, are necessary to keep tlie kitchen machinery running neatly and smoothly. But it " pays not only by the extra economy, but by the greater comfort and happinesa of all the in« mates of the house. PROVIDINO HOUSEHOLD STOREa Opinions diner as to the most economical mutlio«l of providing food and raiment for a family, \lany advocate as far as possible buying in large ({uantities, or wholesale. An> other class, perfectly able to ad jpt the course that Ixjst suits tliem, imagine they economize best by buying little at a time. A third class have no choice. With great care they manage to preserve the semblance of com- fort, at least for a while : but their purses are very light, and in a greater or less degree they live "from hand to mouth." A neces- sity is laid upon them to buy food only for the day, and that in no lavish quantity, and their changes of raiment are not abundant^ They could not buy foo mense saving in the year's expenditures. If kept from the damp air they will not be injured. Cloth of all kinds can be cut into garments or articles of daily use with much etter ecoiiomy, and yield a larger supply, when cut from a whole web, than when two or three, or half a dozen yards are pieced, twisted, turned, planned and replanned, to eke out the garment. Every seamstress knows how nicely the gores, pieces, half- breadths, etc., left from one article fit and come in just right to make certain parts of another and smal er earment, whep she luis a whole web to cut from, and in that way how almost every inch is utilized which could not be used unless lelt on the main piece. We have heard people say, "Oh, if I get a goud stock of materials on hand I am not half as careful and saving in the use of them as I should be if I planned out just how many ])oun(l8 or incnes I must have, and buiiglit that and no more. When things aro plenty I give away nmch more than I should if I liadonly a little in the house." bucii persons are not fit to have the care of a house and its stores. They ahoiild b« put to school and taught how to use thfl gootl things placed in tiieir haiuls "as not abusing tliem." They have no right to waste anything — they have no right to give away anytliing w.iich they cannot afTora to part with, or which was not given into good bands. If Ood has blesaed them with abundance, it should be used to make glad the hearts of all that come under their influence ; but it is sin to throw Hii good gifts recklessly away. But if any have out little to use or to ffivc away, that little should be carefully hua- banded and employetl to do the most good. Whether five, two, or one talent . may be ffiven into our keeping, if used generously, but with care and without waste, to do the largest amount of good and pro«luce the moHt hanpiness, we may hoi)e some. day for the blessing which shall make us rulena over many things, because, we. have been/aith- fulovtra/ew. COOK-BUOKS. Young houseLdepers find it often difllcnlt to select, among the innumerable cook-books which are published, such as will give them the most reliable infori>iation ; and but a few years since, this was a ({uestion that per* plexed matrons of large experience. Tliey seldom found one that gave them entire satisfaction ; but no of^e individtftil found a common ground for complaint — each had reasons for dissent from separate points of view. And, on reflection, it does not appear strange that there should be diversity of opinions. The number of volumes which are before the public under the various titles of "Domestic Economy,"' "Model Cook* ery," "Hints to Young Housekeepers," etc., etc., is past enumerating. Some of these are excellent ; some are as nearly perfect in special departments as is possible ; some suitivble only for the rich ; or those whotlelegate domestic care tohirelings, employ foreign cooks, and eat what is set be- fore them, asking no questions, provided the table looks genteel, and each course is serv- ed with appropriate embellishment and in fashionable order. But^n many of these books there is much that will be an unknown tongue to the inex- perienced. Many young hulips, worthy of all re8],)cct, have a good English education, but are not so situated that they can aspire to anything hi^ljpr. They have secured suf- ficient kuowlcu^e to enjoy substantial rea»l- ing, to be grAtly edified and bear some part in the conversation of literary peopl^ ; but ALL AROUND THE HOUSE they are dumb if phrM«« or quotations from . foreign langtiagea are introduced. And it it In goo«l ta«to -«xcu»ethe inquiry — to garnish oonvemitioii with here and there scraps of fVench anenevolent purpose. The ladies having charge of the operation pro- posed that each should write out some choice recipes for which she should be responsible, And, armnging them in pamphlet form, sell them at the fair, the avails being donated to the object for which they were labouring. The plan was very successful, and tlie pur- ■chaser secured more than Her money's worth in many valuable recipes. Last year the ladies of the Brooklyn Km- ©loyment Society published " Every Day's Needs, " for the benefit of tkat society, and, sach recipe being vouched for by some of our best housekeepers, gives if a thorough- ly trustworthy character. These Viro books, or pamphlets, are small making no pretence of giving all that a young housekeeper needs; but other more elalMn-ato cook-lM)OKs have been prepared, which we think are among the very liest ever publish- ed. "In the Kitchen," de«licated to "The Cooking-Class of the Young Laeen found at entertainments given at the West, even before a place had been long enough re- claimed from the wilderness to supply the conveniences and refinements common in older cities. Then comes " Buckeye Cookery and Practical Housekeeping, ' compiled from original recii)e8, and rublished in Marys- vilfc, Ohio. This book is dedicated to the " Plucky Housekeept^r of 1876, who master their work, instead of allowing it to master them. " This " Buckeye Cookery " has much more in it than cooking. It gives some of them est sensible rules for practical housekeei)ering in a concise but very clear manner. Nearly ALL AROUND THE HOULE. are itnall at a voung ) ulaburato which we r publisli- to "The ios' Satiir- Millf tiicm ost ekeepering V. Nearly every recipes has annexed the name of the Indy who sunt it, and as it lx>ars tiiu creden- tials of some of our best and nios< skilful WvMteni matrons, one need not feai to tmat it. This lKK>k was prepared with the bono that its sale would Iw sutKcient to enable the contributors to build a e«n thus far, that they may secure their church. Wheth«T they succeed in that part of their work or not, they cer- tainly succeeded in giving to all honsckeep- eri< who buy it a most excellent cook-book, rich in the best sort of recipes and rules for practical lalx)ur. Without a moment's doubt we feel safe in assuring those who de'^ire the best book of thiH kinti, that in procuring either of these last three works they will not go astray. List, but not least, wo have a word to say of " Tlie Six Little Cooks ; or Aunt Jane's Cooking Class," published in Chicago by Jaiiscn. McClung k, Co. In this work we are upecially int^'rested, for it is begin- ning just where we have long desired to see this part of a girl's education ^gan. The book is full of really excellent recipes, which old or young may profit by ; but we like it l>ecause, while teaching the young daughters, the mother is ak^,|i|ie sanuj time milking her instructions a source of great pleasure to her girls. Under such care, when they take li^ up in earnest they will find this part of their work much easier from having " played work " when young. We have some young granddaughters who were almost from infancy furnished with a very bmall cookstove, which their sensible mothers have taught them to use in summer out under the trees, and from which already they often surprise their parents with some nice addition to the *• bill of fare. " We in- tend to provide each of these little damsels with a copy of "The Six Little Cooks," and shall expect to fare sumptuously when with them. Little girl^ can learn to do cooking neatly and properly just as well as they can be taugnt to sing, play the piano, or do fancy work ; and woe to the mother who dares to teach them that there is anything servile or degrading in such work ! HOME-MADE COOK-BOOKS. A year or two since, iu reply to Bome queries on the subject of recipes, we advis- ed a young housekeeper to keep a blank- book and hisert under appropriate headings every experiment which she made succoss- fa'ly, and all recipes that she hjwl foun<1 acceptable ; also, to iMg rweipts from her friends, and, after trying one herself and succeeding, to write it down at onoe, and in fiiot-note show wherein she tliouglit she ha«l improved H\^m the original. Such rcciiMjH, tried and varied by one's own experiments, are often tar liettvr than th(«e found in our most elaborate cook- )>ooks, because too many ol' the rules and directions for making every variety of foorl are not such as the autlior lias herielf tried and proved, but taken hastily — at the table, perhaps— from the lips of the lady of the house, and frequently without even the safeguard of writing them down. Thf best of memories are sometimes treacherous, par- ticularly when the thing to be rememliered is something out of the usual habit aod line of thought, aiul for that rua«on so many miHtakuH are found in otherwise very exoaf- lent domestic manuals. A reader of the (.VirUfian Union writes and endorses the idea by giving her own experi- ence, and we quote some parts of the letter : "When a young girl at home, I had dona coiibideralile ])a8trv-cookiiig, canned fruits, niiide pickles, etc., and thought I knew all al>out housekeeping. But, an me ! when I married I found that in many things I was as ignorant as my little daughter now is. But, determining to conquer and become a successful housekeeper an*l home-maker, and believing that regular and well-prepared meals were essential to this end, I eagerly sought information from every available source, Looking Imck on those tlays I laugh at my youthful experience, but then it was oftencr a cai t; for tears than laughter. I searche.iuele88. Then I hit upon a plan of making one of my own ; and now, after sixteen years, I would advise all young housekeepers to try the experiment. " Purchase a blank -book with pages all num)>ered, but put nothing in it save what you have tried or seen tried. Arrange it systeinatically ; tlivide it into different de- partments — one for meats, another for vege- tables, for breads, pies, puddings, etc., allowing space at the end of every section in the body of the book and in the index in which to make entries as new recipes or directions are found, tried, and approved, ^y good housekeeper will be glad to far« nish you her rules for her own favourite dishes. Write all out definitely, remember- ing thai; it is equally important that the ingredients be properly mixed and cooked as that the proper proportions are used. 10 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. "In such a book, prepared by your own band, and each thing tested by you, there is a feehng of reliability which makes it in- valuable. What a treasure such a book would b<) to a daughter, all written by a mother's hand, and tested by her judgment and mature wisdom I" The writer of this letter will, we are sure, BO train her daughters that they will be well versea in all home virtues and practical knowledge, and her advice is worthy the careful consideration of all young home- makers. A little recipe book, prepared for the benefit of the Business VVoman's College in {Brooklyn by the ladies who have the man- agement of tltat institution, has in it much that has been proved and furnished by some of the best and most practical housekeepers, and will be* a great accjuisition to oier young ladies — not simply on account 0/ the recipes for Dice dshes, but also to show how many good devices these " hard times " have call- ed into existence, by which our charitable institutions have been greatly aided and kept alive at a time when it is hard to secure donations. Now, have not some of our young people leisure and ingenuity sufficient to devise many other ways for the relief of tlie poor, or the benefit of our many excellent msti- tutions ? We feel that it is of great impor- tance that the rising generation should learn to Hnd more pleiisure in good works. Why not begin by dividing their leisure hours — half for the pleasures of fashionable life, and half spent in trying to comfort the sick, feeding the hungry, and clothing the naked ? There is a promise of a l)lessing on those who remember the poor and atllicted ; and we venture to predict that young ladies or gentlemen who will thus divide their leisure time for a year will, at the close, acknow- ledge that they have found the enjoyment of doing good to others far outweigh all they liave secured in fashionable life. DINING-ROOM AND KITCHEN FUR- NITURE. Suggestions with regard to the furniture of kitchens and dining-rooms for people in moderate circumstances, are often called for. We notice that a majority of those we have been accustomed to look upon as our wealth- iest citizens usually consider themselves in very "moderate circumstances, " particular- ly when some benevolent project is brought to their notice. We do not, however, desire to criticise. All have an undoubted right to estimate the value of their possessions in accordance with their own ideas of truth and honour. One inexperienced friend who desires such suggestions evidently intends to begin her new life in a truly economical manner, and arrange her home with reference to comfort, good taste, and true happiness, rather than fcr style or fashion. The size and style of the house, and the sum that can be appropnated for furnishing it — three very important items; are not given ; but there are some few points that in any case should be first considered before making important purchases, and borne in mind con- tinually while making them. No shopping expedition should ever be undertaken with- out clearly understanding beforeliand just what is wanted and how much can beexpend- ed. These questions being settled, shopping is far less labourious and perplexing than it would otherwise be. Before bringingnew furniture into a house, all papering, painting, and cleaning, should be thoroughly linishfcd. This can be easily managed if the house is new, or, if it is the first experience in housekeeping, when every thing is to be purchased and brought in, there will be in all probability no very press- ing neoessify for haste, or for receiving the furniture till all needful cleaning has been finished. The inquiry is, often made, " Are not rag- carpets the Unost durable for dining-room antf kitchen, and also the most economical ?" In most cases, v.'e think not. When one's resources are limited, or where the men of the family are farmers or out-door labourers, and of necessity, often enttr the house with heavy, soiled boots, a strong, well- woven rag-carpet may possibly last longer than an ingrain or three-ply ; but even in such cases it is doubtful if, m the end, it will prove the best economy — certainly not for a young housekeeper. It takes the " wear and tear of a large family, through several years, ta save — not buy — rags enough to give the first semblance of economy to these carpets. When a rag-carpet begins to wear out it may be pieced and turned, to be sure, but can never look very well, or be of much service after it has once come to mending ; whereas ingrain and three-ply carpets can be pieced and turned as long as any of the pieces will hold together, ami if nearly done, will, to the end, look quite respectable. As far as mere tante is concerned, we much firefer a clean white floor to a rag carpet, f scrubbing is too hard work (can it be haraer than sweeping a rag-carpet ?), the floor can be painted- -not a dark colour — that shows dirt and every footprint too easily ; but select a colour as neai- that of freshly-planed ALL AROUND THE HOUSE; truth and o desirea tends to economical tme with and true )r fashion, d the sum sbin^ it — lot eiven ; at in any re making mind con> shopping iken with- liand just beexpend- shopping g than it ;oa house, g. should be eatiily if it is the len every ought in, cry press- .'iving the "las been ^e not rag- uing-room nouiical ?" hen one's le men of labourers, ouse with ell-woven ;r than an sucli cases prove the a young and tear years, to e the first carpets. )ut it may !, but can ch service ; whereas be pieced lieces will 3, will, to yellow pine or oak as possible — a shade or two darker. With r light, soft mop, and a Eail of clean, warm sud.s, a painted floor may e easily made to look fresh and nice. It has this advantage in a kitchen «J^er carpets or oil-cloth — that every spot can \ie at once removed without injury. Dark grounds, well covered with rich col- ours and tasteful designs, are much to bo preferred to ligiit or plain dark colours, in carpets for «laily hard use. One scarcely perceives at first how easily a lig||S>coloured carpet is defaced, or, if not faded, now soon the colour loses its freshness and looks old. But ill a little while the change is so marked tliat we wake suddenly to the consciousness that what was a few months since a bright, fre.sh, iiiiet8. Eastlake patterns, for tlie most part, look faded and old, as if lieirlooms, handed down from some of the past centuriea.and the designs are as ungrace- ful and untrue to Nature, and disagreeable to the eye, as can well be imagined. But there are persons who always see, in all that carries the impress of fashion — sometbioi " too lovely/or anything." Persian carpets, if not too expensive, wouU be economical for coinniou bard usage, be cause thay cannot show spots, the colour* being thrown together so indiscriminatel} that none can tell whether they are spottec by design, lack of design, or by accident. Cane-seated oak chairs are pleasant anc serviceable for the dining-room, but in that case, table and sideboard, if you have one, should also be of oak. Leather-covered chairt are more expensive, but very duratdp and handsome. The leather should match the other furniture in colour. Black-walnut siileboaril and table, with dark, leather-cov- ered chairs, have a richer appearance, and are not much, if any, more expensive ; but this style is more suitable for a large, high- i tudded room, well lighted, else the dark material gives a sombre hue to theapartmeut which is very disagreeable. A dining-room should be always bright and cheerful, with large wintlows and plenty of them, that the room may be bathed in sunlight. It is only in such a room that dark furniture can be tolerated. It is not necessary that the car- pet should match the furniture, we think, but only that the colours harmonize. Dark gi-eens or scarlets, softened by oak or gold vines or scrolls, help to give the room a cheer- ful aspect. A black giound, covereil with scrolls or vines of oak, gold and green, has been much used for dining-rooms and halls of late, and looks exceedingly well. White or buH-coloured curtains are desir- able for kitciien windows, even when they are supplied with l» inds or shutters ; for the kitchen needs all the light possible, requir- ing only thin muslin curtains to soften the intense glare from eastern or western win- dows, or to siiield the occupants from the rude gaze of outsidei-s. The blinds in the kitchen should never be closed till too dark to see witliout lamps or gas. There are many other hints for both kitchen and diniui,'-rooni that wouhl be desirable ; but we have a few words to say about cham- bei»furnishiug, particularly about the beds. When tiiefe are two occupants in a clfam- ber, aiul the room is large, two bureaus, though not indis|)en6able, are a great con- venience. One of tliPin at least shouhl have two wide and deep drawers at the l)Ottom, and two deep but narrow drawers on each end over the long ones. This gives space between to hang a long, broad mirror or dressing-glass, ami is a very great conveni- ence for a lady ; and particularly for one who has no daughter or lady friend to point out whatever may be amiss in her attire, and who has not any desire for the doubtful 12 ALL 4I10UND THE HOUSE. ,'i il luxury of a Udy^ mud, evea if ihe could afford it. Whatever may be the style of the bed. by all means have one of the Hartford wire- woven mattrasses. The cost is, to be sure, (greater than a common under-bed or paillasse, but the ditferenoe in expense is nearly, if not quite, saved in the hair-matti'asu which uiould be then used with them. A Hart- ford mattrass with less than one-third the usual quantity of hair is all that is required. A very heavy mattrass would destroy half the esmfort and elasticity of these wire- woven blessings. They are the most desir- able under-beds we have ever seen. Many use them, we are told, without any mattrass, et at all need feel troubled, if they never can have anything better, there- fore be well content with m\ ingrain of good wool, not slidody, until with a free consci- ence and without pecuniary inconvenience a higher grade can be purchased, and then we would prefer the best (luality of Brussels for the parlour to velvet or tapestry. A good Brussels will, we think, last longer than tapestry ; the colours are as good and the de- signs less elaborate and more graceful gene- rally. But ))oth are liable to the same ob- jection. Neither can be turned and made over, like the cheaper styles. The best Wilton carpets cost more, but are far more durable, than Brussels, for parlor carpets, certainly ; that is if parlours are to used — not shut up and darkened, and only thrown open for show. The Wiltons are usually of good, fast colours, pretty ))atterns, retaining their col«ur until completely v om out — if, indeed, they can M-ear out. Of course there are inferior ciualities, but we refer only to the best. The Wilton car- pets are not so desirable as Brussels for chamber-carpets. They have a thick, heavy nap, and the dust settling in them more readily than in Brussels makes them harder to sweep. In putting down carpets, lay something betweeir them and the Hoor, for the dust, which sifts through and settles on the boards, will grind and wear out the carpet much sooner if it comes in contact with the bare boards. Some recommend laying straw, evenly, over the floor, and fastening it down by passing any old twine back and forth across the straw, tacking the string at each side of the room, as it binds the straw in place firmly. This mode will teach house* keepers and children to untie, not cut, the strings that come round buudles,and carefully roll them in balls, that they may have them always ready tor any emergency. But we do not like straw under carpets, and think the ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 19 hartl,TOUgh joint8,and indeed the straw itself, will wear the carpet more than any duBt tliat can sift through on the boards, even if straw did not tend to ^her other dampness. Newspapers laid smoothly on the floor, and fastened down with very small, smooth-heAer. In putting down a carpet, stretch it per- fectly smooth and taut, as it is nailed down, for «uy loose spot or wrinkle will soon wear out. Carpets once nailrnl down smoothly should not be lifted too often. Ingrains and three-ply will need it every year, and twice a year — spring and fall — if the rooms are- constantly and severely used ; because dirt penetrates them more readily than the thick kind of carpets, which are very closely woven. Brtissels, if in a small family and subjected to little rough usage, do not need to be taken up more than Mice a year ; and, in rooms neatly kept and little used, only once in two years. Wilton cai-peta should never be raised of+ener than every two, and Moquette and Axminster only once in tliree years, and should not be swept oftener than every other week. Be careful to go over the car- pet with a dustpan and soft brush whenever any dirt is seen, but do not wear out tUe carpet by too heavy sweeping. On lifting one of these heavy carpets, one is surprisecf to see how little dirt has found its way through to the floor or carpet-wad- ding and cannot but feel that, were it not for fear that some mischievous moths had laid their eggs in the corners, it would have been better not to have gone to the trouble of taking it up. One's ov. n preference must decide how the parlours are to be furnished after consulting the family purse. Only be sure that the room is not overloaded with furniture. That if extravagant and in very poor taste, be- sides being exceedingly inconvenient. The style and variety oi the articles can be Settled only by those who bear the expense and occupy the apartments. If necessary to be very careful and savins, there ore many pretty contrivances which a skilful house- keeper can supply with very little actual cost. Some of the .most attractive parlours we have ever entered have been made so more by the ingenuity of the ladies of the house, than by anything that furniture-storea or cabinet-makers' skill ever contributed. IMPORTANCE OF CAREFUL DUST- ING. It is not easy, for p.raons yet unaccustom-. ed to the daily rout.ne of household care, to realize how essential to cleanliness is the practice of daily, thorough dusting ; and there are some old, experienced house- keepers who, tiiougb very particular in many things, are nevertheless quite remiss in this important department. " What nonsense ! Who will believe that there can be any perceptille difference be- tween a house that is dusted vvery day and one that receives that attention once or twice a week ? It is a saving of patience, time, and dusters, to be content witk less of that kind of care. " We heard remarks like these not long since. Two ladies were giving their experi- ence witli unfaithful servants, and one com- plained of infrequent dusting as forming a part of her trouble, and this quotation was the reply, W^e did not linger to hear more, but think one could easily see what would be the difference in the appeai'ance of the two homes over which these ladies presid- ed. SuppoBfthey were just beginning a home- life — and we thitikthey were — occupying two houses, newly, and in all respects similar. For a few weeks there would be but little perceptible difference. Both are alike plea- sant, complete and attractive. But ere long a change is noticeable. In one — no spots on the furniture a^-e found ; no dust has settled in carved work or mouldings. The statuary, marble-top tables, and mantels, are fresh and pure as when the house was first occupied. No scroll, or bud, or leaf, in the exquisitely- carved mantels shelters the dust, which can always be so easily removed if caught on its first entrance and not allowed to settle and become solid by dampness or neglect. Thq window-panes are clear as crystal, and no dark spots of dirt are heaped up in the cor* ners of the sash. The gas-fixtures are all n food working condition ; the top of each urner free from anything that can Qlmtruot a full, clear Hame. The most fastidious caller, with immaculate white ^ids, need 14 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 0} fear no damage in taking up a book, or reat- insr her hand on a table. The neighbouring house, opened and occu- pied at the same time, presents a very differ- ent aspect. The furniture has already grown rusty and old ; the highly -polished rosewood is losing its fine sheen ; dust has found a refuge in every available nook and corner, giving an ancient look to rich carvings, that deserved better care. The windows are bonded and streaked with dust ; dark sha- dows that have been gathering slowly in the corners are now realities, in the shape of dust And lint, that from day to day have been al< lowed to find lodgment there unmolested. Marble-toy tables, mantels, and statuary, «ven at this early day, are looking gray and mouldy. All the elegant and artistic work which adorns them is defaced. The gas flickers, or shoots up in uneven and irregular flames, because the orifices in the burners are choked with dust and lint from fires and sweeping, and the shades are unwashed and heavily clouded from neglect. Such a difference is often seen between two houses having equal facilities for neat- ness rfhd order, but under entirely different administration. Unfortunately, the descent from careless surface-dusting to real eloven- liness is so gradual that the latter state be- comes the established fact before theS in luke- nibbed dry end of the :k and forth carving ; or, ise e. clean rays be kept at purpose. ;an accumu- will be dis> youth and ear down to something e. On the it should be can prevent rests on the noved with that a aare- working, or after some r negligence tinned work irniture can cency. By much time erinaiieutly the carving paint-bruilh enioved by hue driving is a great such a pur- from the lat, to an as to see e oruamen- be a per- ome houses tu hide in, bhoughtlesa careless and door washed off, dly soiled, k^ith hands irnace and leave the [loB of the 1 and out. metl on the ;oal-hod, to steady the steps. It is very natural that this should be done, when carrying a heavy weight ; but one can hardly imagine such perfection in our domestics as U) feel any surprise that they do not themselves see the damage done, or take instant steps to remove such marks, without being re- minded of it. But whoever lias the care of the rooms, whether dining-rooms, parlour3,or chan, damp cloth will take off all such disfigurements easily if they are not left on too long. The same care is needed to keep the door- knobs or handles clean. Children with soil- ed hands, right from their meals, often leave the knol>3 sticky or greasy, And they can receive the necessary care at the same time tliat the woodwork is cleaned, taking no longer time, but adding greatly to the neat- ness and comfort of the house. One of the most essenti d qualifications of a good house- keeper is a quick, observant eye, that at a glance, almost by instinct, knows when and where such little touches are needed, and secures prompt attention to them. FASHION, OR ECONOMY? " Hard times " and " the panic " are terms that, like old customs, are revived about every ten years. Sometimes the days of trouble are not half so hai;d as the imagination paints them ; but no one will doubt the reality of " hard times " the past year. Young housekeepers are fully realiz- ing that there is great need of the stnctest economy. They hear it talked of at every corner, and see cause for grave delil)eration at every step ; and feeling tliis unusual pres- sure, they acknowledge the necessity for close calculations in all their expenditures, and would gladly curtail them. But they groan, being grievously burdened by the exactions of Fashion, and find no possibility of retrencliment while compelled, as they imagine, to exorbitant outlays, by her inexorable laws. They lack the cour- age, and we may say good sense, to break these bonds, and act independently. If good and usually sensible ladies of riper years would but set the example, we think our young people would soon see how easy a thing it is to dress neatly — in good taste — yet quite economically. From out the monstrosities of fashion, one surely can select, from every styie, some points that may be so combined that a sim- ple, graceful, and not extravagant dress shall be secured by this sensible gleaning. The most fastidious, if compelled by pecuniary considerations to resort to such selections ancl combinations, may be comforted by tiie know- ledge that tiieirdress, thus skilfully planned, is far more modest and in better taste than of the uncouth fashions exhibited in our dress - niagazi nes. But we acknowledge that, to be r*»ally fashionably dressed, and yet be economical, is under tlie present dispensation quite im- possible. Those only whose wealth neces- sitates no very stringent economy can ven« ture on a strict adherence to fashion with impunity. People of limited means are bound to shake off these fetters and be governed by good practical common-sense, or become hopelessly involved. Bear in mind how fashion changes, and notice how each change of late is more wild- ly extravagant than the last. If one follows this " will-o'-the wisp" and remodels the wanlrobe or buys new to meet each fresh caprice, what t ime is there left for any* thing else ? W'ait — and once in about every five or seven years this changeful goddess will jome back to a more sensible style. Only a short time since, and ° immense "hoops" were "all the rage." Then so much material was needed to finish a dress ample enough to cover this unbecoming ex- tension, that a labouring or salaried man could not furnish, his wife with what she would call decent apparel, and save money for anything else. • At length " hoops," or crinoline, diminish- ed in size, and what was saved ^ Nothing, For the amount of trimming that then began to he piled upon the s'.virts demanded as large a pattern as before this change, and was far less economical than the extensive skirts, be« cause the material was cut up for puffings, bias-folds, etc., so as to be useless for remo- deling or making over a d ess. Now "crinoline" has vanished, and " gored " skirts are the style. Tlie dress is now so scant as to cling closely about the feet, greatly impeding the natural action of the limbs. This, certainly, is not aggree* able ; but instead of buying twenty, thirty, or foity yards of material for a dress, we may hope — at least while these " hard timea" continue — for something like the good old days when, whatever burdens may have been imposed on woman by others, her back was never bent under the self-inflicted and almost insupportable weight of ponderous skirts, and unnumbered yards of trimming. Then seven, eight, or at the most ten yards of material was ample measurement for the rich as well as the poor. Yes. The "hoops" have disappeared, '*.# 16 ALL AROUND THE HOUSEi and the huge, billowy skirts shnmk to very narrow liinite, and wliat have we now se- cured, in increased comfort, or decreased ex- pense? 'Absolutely nothing I Indeed, we are not at all sure but this last change brings more discomfort, as well as extravagance, p than anything among the styles that have * ' , passed away. There is a marvellous increase m trimmings of every sort. Ruffles, flounces, puffiiigs, plaitings, bands, and bows, of the heaviest material-^in dissimilar colour and fabric — in the most elaborate and grotes- que devices, are all mingled ; and, united, : j cover the skirts of fashionable dresses — from ' top to bottom — disfiguring the waist and arms, and making the whole figure t mys- tery. From the back of the dress, that part of the skirt which should hang in graceful folds is puffed and looped up, forming some- , thing more uncouth than the poor camel's ** hump." In the heavens above, the earth beneath, or the waters under the earth, there can nothing be found to equal tlie deformity and most unnatural figure of a lady robed in the *'hei(jht of the fashion." ii If our poor frail Ixjdies must carry such j !i incumbrances, then crinoline wouhl be a ' blessing. But, unaided by that which would help +o support the burden and relieve the spine from this unnatural pressure, a devotee of fashion has now the whole weight Of these heavily-laden skirts dragging from the back and hips, incapacitating tl>e body for any na- tural, free action ; and the trouble is greatly augmented by the last crowning cruelty of all, the "pull-back," which compels short, mincing, uncertain steps, and makes the at- tempt to enter a carriage, or step up-stairs, hazardous as well as ridiculous. But the discomfort and absurdity of the present fashions are not the worst features in the case. Great as is the extravagance of wasting so much material on one dress, and cutting much of it into trimming, which spoils it for altering over for a second term oi service, the expense and waste of time in manufacturing the garment are still greater. Unless uble to hire her dresses made, what time has a mother or housekeeper for her home dutiot if she attempts to make a fash- ionable dress herself, with the required amount of trimming ? We give a few statis- tics : A good dressmaker employed at your ; own honse usually receives three dollars a day. In the country you may find one for two and a half. A full-rigged fashionable dress will require nine di^s' steady, hard work of a rapid seamstress — twenty- seven dollars, besides the nine days' board, for making one dress ! If you send the material to a dressmaker, you will have a bill varying from fourteen to fifty or seventy-five dollars, according to the reputation of the dressmaker for styliahneas* or her vicinity to tlie most fashionable part of the community. Appended to this bill you may find a goodly numl)er of extras. These items may be relied on, as we have them from undoubted authority. Now, unless your husband is a man of wealth, do you think he can safely supply you with money to meet such bills for a fash- ionable attire ? But a gentleman pays fifty, seventy -five, or even a hundred dollars, for a dress suit,abouc the same for a dress overcoat, an another ; lie by liand, rreat change rdeut devo- e article on rugs in the our notice. ir taste, but ;ion. is to substi* cover only 9 a large htted into i doors, or follow the side of the overed sur- K)m, which ling to the houses the sveral kinds 1 that part n Ivantages in 3onomy it is fit a carpet recesses in some waste, especially if there are figures or scrolls to be matched, and it also recpiires a skiiful hand to fit the carpet to all the irregular places found on any floor, however simple. Another reason suggested in favour of rugs is that the corners and little nooks are ttie favourite resort of moths. They doubtless prefer to deposit their eggs in the most inac- cessible places, and by instinct seem to un- derstand that by so doing they have a more hopeful prospect of securing undisputed pos- session than in the most exposed parts of the room. Careless sweepers are great friends to moths ; so few, uiiltss under strict super- vision, are experts in exploring thoroughly tlie strongholds of these alert and most vexa- tious torments. Again if a a carpet is made only to cover the principal part of the floor— Sijuare or ob- long, according to the shape of the room — it can be taken up with greater ease, as often as may be deemed necessary, and will re- quire no special skill to replace it. It can also l»e clianged from one room to another with little trouble and without refitting. Here are some sensible reasons for this theory of carpeting a ro»;ks, protecting our carpets from tlicsa de' tructive little insects. ^^e also doubt if lifting a carpet often is desiraole. It is quite a tax— an addition to the general labour of a family which we think can ne dispensed with. It docs the carpet no good ; but, if a large, heavy, sewed one, it may, by ripping through rough handling, be greatly injured. A carpet, even under the name of rug, is a cumbersome thing to take up and down stairs, and is seldom whipped or shaken without some rent or strain, if done by hand ; while considerable cxpcn<;c is incurred if it is taken to a carpet- beating establishment. All the cleansing^ secured by frequent lifting will not com- pensate for the trouble, expense, or annoy- ance. The last reason against this new theory which we give now is this : We think this arrangement undesirable, because children,^ old and feeble persons, or any one crossing or entering the room in haste, risk severe falla. We have known such falls, from mats oi small rug, and some very serious injuries by bein^ tripped up on half-way carpets. If one IS feenk or in haste, he is liable to oatch the toe of the boot under the edge of a oar- pet not nailed cloee to the mop-boardr. Bui if not able to corar the floor entirely with IS ALL AROUND THK HOUSE ^1 I-; carnctinR, we hIiouM d(ni1>tle8R l»e content witn half, aa Jwtter tlmn none at all. MoHt of these large rugn are made of the very befit quality, woven in one pieoe with elftl>orate borilerH, and large enough to cover all but a few feet of liandHonie inlaid Mood floor, round the 8ie as great a viriety of them as there are individua^i weak enough to feel sensitive altout such revela- t )r.s. In early youth each additional year is haileecause the term "old maid" is often usctl in a most offen- sive manner. That there are sometimes peculiarities in this clais of ladies may not be denied. Some are ho unfortunately con- stituted that they i»re a burden to them- selves and a torment to all around them, meddling, interfering, and ready to promote dissensions and bitterness as far as their in- fluence extends. \ young person whose life has been closely linked with such speci- mens can scarcely avoid a feeling of repug- nance at the thought tiiat that offensive term may some day lie used in connection with herself, and may be tempted to hide her age by prevarication. But it should be romem- l)ered that gossiping, meddling, and intrusive dictation are sometimes found among matrons as well as with elderly maidens. The mistake of our young people lies, we think, in fostering false impressions ; in yield- ing without protest to the popular heresy that an " old maid " nuist, oi necessity, l)e disagreealjle and troublesome — and thit from these peculiarities there is no escap< . On the contrary, our daughters should iw taught that it rests almost entirely with one a own self whether, if living in "single blessedness, " one shall be the bugl>ear of the family — the dreaded and shunned ogre uf and and ment. youui scboo who tion shoot witli is to dex Til you 11 1 Wliuli thii devott "and bright typed "swoe niodcsi Would but, w by her and deD;vr^ Such [and vfi ALL AROUND THE HOULE. 19 past ten, " onmn, with ortance for 1 they paaa ith, do they when quea- inquiry is have any vho, having Idly nearing ich inquiries, licule this se the term most offen- Bometinies ies may not nately con- eii to them- round them, to promote as their iu- rson whose such speci- g of repug- fensive term lectioa with hide her ago be remem- and intrusive moug matrons ople lies, we ions ; in yieW- jpular heresy necessity, he le — and thit no escap' . era should l>e entirely with og in "single )ugl)ear of tlie nned ogre of the nursery, and the sore torm(^nt from which all young i>eople flee in dismay — or the idolized " AuiUic," to whom the bahy turns for ever-ready amusement ; and to whom tlie weak, the helpless, and the young look in every emergency — next only to the mother. Who hinds up the cut finger, or Imthes the luuiHi'd liuad when mother is not near, so piitii iitly as the !;eiitle " Auntie?" Who helps t.u? ccreless cluld in the iie;,dc'cted lesHon or forgutt«u work — shields from cen- sure — and by her pity and tenderness leads the little culprit to repentamie, and toward reformation —when rebuke, or punishment, though perhaps deserved, might liave matle the child bitter or defiant? Who is the anj^el of light and comfort in the sick room ? Wlio is the sweet counsellor and trustetl frieutl, in all the little secrets and mysteries of youth? Who rejoices in every hour of prosperity, or mourns most deeply when clouds and darkness gatlier about her loved ones? Tiie maiden sister or aunt, wlio, with no husband or children of her own to call fortii her tendcrest love, pours out the rich tieasures of her heivrt, and atlopts for her very own those who make a home for her, and give her cheerful reverence and honour. Tliese blessed one? have no hesitation in sjMiaking of their age, under proper circum- stiinous. But there is a class of ladies who endea- vour to liide their age even at the expense of truth — the motliers who love dross and fashionable life more than tiieir homes and children ; who, to secure the compli- ments and attentions usually given to the young, keep their daughters in boarding- schools away from home as long as possible ; who look foiward to their children's vaca- tion with dread, and see their little girls shoot up into boautilul and graceful women witii dismay. Every ailvance toward maturity is to tiie vain and heartless mother an in- dex to her own age. The fashionable woman, with two or three young ladies by her side, is not the one to wliom brainless fops do homage, or to whom the "exquisite" lifts his beaver with tiie most devoted eagerness. Her clieek may be soft "and tinted like a shell," her eyes flash briglitly in the seitseless badinage or stereo- ty|)ed repartee of a party, or, bashful as "sweet sixteen," droop in well-sinmlated modesty, to compliments that no noble man would dare offer, or moe purohaBetl, clearly Iwfore the mind. The next Htep •hould l)u a visit to the l>c8t fumitiire stores, prepared to reHist any gentle aHHiiranc-es that Buch and such articles may safely he pur- chased, without wasting time on further deliberation, because tliey are " suitable under any circumstiinces — nay, absolutely necessary, in all genteel houses. Why, Mrs. and Mrs OHmght without a moment's hesitation." This may be true; neverthe- less, one buys, or should buy, to suit indivi- dual tast«, comfort, and cii-eumstunocs, and must not permit a salesman to solicit or urge any purehaHe. Kacli article should be examined carefully to learn if the material is good, and the work well and neatly done. Make a note of such things as seem most desirable ; and having all particulars, ami each peculiarity, clearly defined (so that, with the aid of notes in the all-important memorandum book, there will l»e no danger of confusion), it will be well then, without making any purchase, to go home, and after resting rjuietly, review the day'e work away from the confusion of the store. If the body is allowed to become painfully weary, the mind is scarcely capable of judging correctly ; but a good night's rest will assist one wonderfully to decide what things are best adapted to the house which is to be furnished, and what, however beautiful, would be incongruous. One day of preliminary research is an ex- cellent preparation for the second day's work. But never forget, while making the I)urciia8es, that no room must be crowded, n the midst of so many attractions, it re- quires no little self-control to resist the long- ing to buy " just this one thing more ! it is so beautiful ?" When such excuse is felt to be needed, it is safe to conclude that the purchase should be, at least, delayed. There will be time enough after all other articles have l>een sent home and carefully arranged to buy " just thia one thing " if it then seem desii'able. Another thing must no the forgotten — namely, many articles that fashion demands, and which are really in good taste, may be allowed — indeed, are demanded — in a city home, which are inconvenient and exceed- ingly undesirable in a country residence, unless one is so unfortunate as to be located in the centre of a large village. That is far worse than living in the city, gentility and style being there taxed more inexorable than in the city. Heavy damask curtains with rioh white lace over-curtains sweeping the floor may he endured in the city, and by 8on«e eyes will be regarded as Uie crowning giory of the room. They are doubtless a groat protec- tion from hold-eyed gaizeni passing by, but in the country they are surely a great mis- take. Aside from l)eing very expensive, we cannot think them half so elegant and tast^* ful as more simple curtains. CAMEL'S-HAIR SHAWLS. We have endeavoured to arrive at as cor- rect a knowledge of this subject as a some- what extended research through unwieldy encyclopedias and ponderous dictionaries could furnish. A rough fabric, called canwUnum or came- letum, was manufactured from camel's hair in amient times, and the Arabs still make carpets, tents, and wearing-apparel from it. The French use it in making hats, and the Hnest parts of the hair are sent from Smyrna, Constantinople, and Alexandria, to manu- facture the pencils used by artists. There are three qualities — the black, red, and grey. The black is the best, the gray the least valuable. This is, we imagine, nearly the ex^iit of any use to which the camel's hair is put. The shawl spoken of as the camel 's-hair shawl is the India or Cashmere shawl, made from the finest portions of the fleeee of the Thibet goat. This animal is found on the cold, dry table-lands of Thibet, fourteen or sixteen thousand feet above the level of the sea. This goat can l»e reared in many other countries, but the wool deteriorates as it descends from its native home ; and in the sultry plains of Hindostan it is scarcely more valu- able than the hair of tlie greyhound. But far up among its snowy heights its Heece is long aivl silky, straight and white. It sometimes measures more than a foot and a half in length, falling in rich heavy masses from either side of the back. It is usually brown or grey with golden or tawny tips. Some parts of it are white. These goats have been introduced into France and England, but their wool becomes coarse and harsh compared with that which grows high up amid the snows of the Thibet mountains. The An- gora goat, like the Thibet goat, has a long flossy fleece, but instead of being straight it falls in beautiful silken ringlets. It is under the long fleece of the Thibet foat that the exceedingly soft material — too ne for hair, and too straight for wool — is found, which is used in the manufacture of ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. n the famoufl India or Caslimere shawla. It will nrol>al)ly )>ti impoHsible to introduce the shawl goat into France or England succesa- fully. The genuine Thibet woolhaH been brought over to England, from which the finest Pais- ley and h^linburgh shawls have been made ; and the English have hati manufactories in Delhi and Ijahoro, employing native Meavers from Cashmere to do the m ork, but all Hhawlb miule in these estaMishmcnts lack the richness and delicacy of those made in Cadhinere. They are coarse ajid deterior- ated iu comparison with the genuine ar- ticle. It is impossible to account for this supe- riority. It is sometimes attributed to the peculiarity of the water in the vale of Cash- mere, but most probably there may be found a variety of causes. The fleece is brought from Thibet— a whole month's journey to this valley — a region of the most wonderful loveliness, and here thest celebrated sliawls are made more perfect than on any other spot. The great mart for the wool of which shawls are made is Kilghet, twenty days' journey from the northern boundaries of Ciislnnere. When received, the wool is separated with the greatest care, fibre from fibre, the choicest being set apart for the most valuable shawls. There are two kinds of wool — the white, which can Ije easily dyed, and the brown, gray, or ashen colour. The latter, not being easily changed, nor improved by dyeing, is used i* its natural colour. About two pounds of either are obtained from a single goat once a year. After the down has been separated from the Irnir with much care, it is washed many times in rice-staich. This process is con- sidered very important, and it is to the peculiar quality of the waters of this valley that the inhabitants attribute the unrivalled fineness and riclmess of the fabrics that are manufactured there. After the wool is thus washed and cleansed, it is then dyed and given to the women to spin. One-half the weight is lost by these various manipulations before it is woven. The yarn is then given to the weavers by the merchant, who either secure a number of shops, where the man in his employ works for him, or he gives the yarn to overseers with full directions for the colours and patterns, and they manufao* ture the article in their houses or huts, hiring the weavers themselves. The overseers earn from six to eight pence per day, and the weavers about three and a naif pence. Four persons are often employed a whole year on «Qe shawl. Carpets and counterpanes are niftde from the coarse, long wool, which is rejected by the shawl-manufacturers. The common in* expensive shawls are woven with a long shuttle, but the finer ones are worked with a wooden needle. The Hindoo weaver has no knowledge of mechanics. His tools are of the most simple kinds. He winds his thrieen invented that can give such fine fabrics as those mae sewed togetlicr and liuislicd with a Ijorder of stair-carpet- ing, or the wide borders that are made for otiier carpets. lu tliis way a very handsome centre carpet may be secured, with compara- tively very little expense. Tliese stjuares, or centre pieces, can be tjicked down, and tlien be easily lifted for sliaking, and replaced witii very little trou- ble. But we would not like to insure the *)abics from many a tumble, and some severe /alls ; and tite older members of tlie family may be thankful If they escape without some nerioua acciilent, whetlier tlie carpets be nailed or unnailed. We think when fastened down, however, they are even more un- safe ; for, if the foot catches under the car- pet when nailed down, it does not yield so reaeting can be used, with Uttle danger of tripping, if there ii a centre table put upon it, as tlie carpet will not extend so far as to give any excuse for atumtiling. In cold weather this may be desirable, but ('ues not add to the elegance of the room. The dining-room may \>e covered with matting antl be serviceable, because the crumb-cloth or «Irugget, on which the din- ing-table must be placed, should be large enough to secure it frooi rough wear. This border, the centre piece, and drugget can be easily taken up and shaken often enough to keep motlis away. Our California friend docs not think the cane, willow, or bamboo furniture comfortable, and woollen is objection- able, because so easilv ruined by moths in that climate. Site incpiires " if cretonne can i)e used witliout the necessity of re-sti»(tiiig the furniture everytime the cover needs wasliing or renewal, or if that mati-rial will be out of taste, as seeming to cover something very nice." Crt'/oiiiir iMiriiiture. — When cretonne is worn out or soiled so that is l>ecomes neces- sary to take it ott'and recover the whole set of turniture, it must, of course, be letied or rebuttoned ; but, unleiss the springs have been broken, there will be no necessity for re-stutting anything. Ab A matter of taste simply, nothing can be prettier than some of the beautiful pat- terns of the cretonne. The softness of the cloth, the delicacy of colour, the giaceful- ness of design, make it one of the most de- sii-able and attractive materials for furnish- ing a country, or suuimer, home that we have any knowleilge of. It is strong — wearing extremely well and does not soil or fade so easily as one might at lirist imagine. One of the most bewitching houses we ever entered was near Jacksonville, Florida ; and in thi« fairy-like home almost all the rooms were furnished with cretonne. It was a large, commodious house ; and that it had been planned with great skill and furnished in perfect taste must have been apparent to all who entered it. The furniture, of uni(]Ue, fanciful, and graceful patterns, was all covered with cretonne, of extiellent colour and designs, but each room different : soft, fiesli peas-greens, tlelicate bluc-and-pink grounds, with trailing vines, and flowers, and here ami there birds' nests — young birds and their parents, with the bright-hued Southern plumage — for the parlours, sitting-rooms, and some cozy, small side- rooms ; and tlia , ALL AROUND THK HOUSK. W mure •'^ber, quiet browns and oak for halU unii (lining- ro<)in. White lace or niiulin i-urtaiiiH, with i'rrtonnc lambrci|uinn ■hH"*^tom to move it, when filled, without trou I;. These are only a few of the comforts, con- veniences, and really elegant articles that can be manufactured by one's own ingenuity, skill, and perseverance, saving much money, and gaining more comfort and pleasure. Lambrequins and valances for brackets or mantels may be made of black farniei-'s satin, and flowers, vines, birds, etc., placed on the satin, by button-liole 'stitch in em- broidery-silk. They are beautiful. ]S IT WASTED TIME? A letter signed '* A Thoughtless House- keeper" has been handed us, evidenjily writ- ten under the impression that directions for systematic and thorough cleanliness, in every department of household labour, are snares to catch unwary women, and hold them to unmitigated drudgery. If our suggestions lead any to feel that a suitable regard for neatness must of necessity allow no time for other and important duties, we greatly re- gret it. If this is a well-grounded impres- sion it must be the result of a most infelici- tous mode of expression on our part ; but it does not change our firm belief in the neces- sity of the completeness and nicety with which all work should be done — not for the sake of neatness alone, though that is of suf- ficient importance, but because in the end it is an absolute saving of time, strength, and money. We do not propose to discuss this " Tlif^ughtless Housekeeper's" complaint at all for our own justification, but hope by a few more words on this subject to convince the inexperienced that true cleanliness — even the most fastidious precision — need not con- sume so much precious time as many are fond of assurtiing. Will it be thought » severe or uncharitable inference, if we confess to a suspicion tliat a desire to employ one's time in more ennob- ling pursuits is not always the true or most potent objection to careful housekeeping? Is tliere not a littl J indolence ? A little disin- clination to t'lat particular form of employ- ment which is truly at the bottom of most protests of lais kind ? Would not "a little more sleei/, a little more slumber, a little more folding of the hands to sleep," be bet- ter relished than to be up bright and early, "putting the house to rights," looking after and rectifying little mistakes, or starting tiie ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 25 le box and 18 described Footstool or for pricea, 1 this case bo*^toni to n .; J. iiJorts, con- rtioles that 1 ingenuity, nch money, (I pleasure, brackets or )k farmer's etc., placed tell in em- d. i: r, E? less House- lonjily writ- rectiona for ;ss, in every are snares hold them suggestions regard for no time for greatly re- ded impres- ost infelici- >art ; but it the neces- licety with not for the at is of suf- ri the end it ength, and iscuss this Hnplaint at hope by a to convince iness — even sed not con- 3 many are incharitable icion that a lore ennob- rue or most keeping? la little disin- of employ- lorn of most >t "a little er, a little p, " be bet- t and early, joking after startin;: the machinery for the day's work satisfactorily T Or, perhaps, an untimely call, tr the late farewell of a guest the night before, may have taken one from an interesting book and left it at an unfortunate sentence, which keeps the mind in so uncomfortable and im- patient a state of expectancy that the tempta- tion i» very strong to hurry through the next morning's work in a most careless manner. Our "Thoughtless Housekeeper" — this is a nom de plume of her own — says : " After reading your last article on dusting, etc., I could not liclp asking myself. For what end is woman created J Has she no immortal soul to save, or is she simply a machine made for tlie sole purpose of fitting and preparing a house and caring for the furniture T etc. "If this is woman's mission on earlli, I will forth- with arm myself witli an old silk handkerchief, chamois skin, paint brush, and bellows, and try to fulfil it." Now this must be a very "Thoughtless Housekeeper" indeed, and very inexperienced if she does not know that it will take but a small portion of the early morning — not very nmch longer than it must have taken to concoct that note — to carry out our directions to the letter. Let her, for once, get the " old silk handkerchief " and other needed implements, and try it faithfully for one week, and see if this mountain does not speedily shrink into a mole-hill of very email dimensions. We advise only what we have often tried, and feel confident that by work- inj systematically one can be particularly exai t, and yet always find a good portion of time for other duties — to care for the children, to seek the comfort and happiness of the household generally, to enjoy society and social life in a proper degree, ip help the needy and show kindness to the sick and soiTowful. One can be scru- pulously neat and yet find leisure to read and write, to cultivate the mind, enrich and en- large the understanding, and looking to " our Father " for help and guidance, give heed to the welfare of the " immortal soul." Yet to learn to do this easily, and with dexterous celerity, is not the work of a day, but Cometh by experience. If taught by a skilful guide from early girlhood, it becomes a"s«jond nature, "and the work is performed easily and naturally. To those who have not had early morning it is, for a time a hard les- son, yet one that each trial lightens. But there are certain conditions that it is absolutely necessary should be complied \yith before " the yoke becomes easy and the burden light ; " no more, however, in this than in all important duties. We have not found that tiiose most efficient in domestic affairs, or the most earnest and successful in self- culture, ^ can afford to let the sun be far ahead of them, on his morning journey, be- fore they also are ready to commence their own day's labours ; nor can we see that through the day there is leisure for many houra of gossip or fashionable calls. Time enough for all useful, social enjoyments, but little to be squandered foolishly. If any housekeeper will make early rising a fixed habit, and see that her handmaidens follow her example — provided she is obliged to have any — it will not take many weeks for even an inexperienced one to learn that all the little niceties that at first seem bur- densome, but which give an air of refinement and cheerfulness to every home, can be carefully attended to before the family are ready to asseii)ble at the breakfast table, or, if there is no servant, can be so far adjusted as to make the morning meal pleasant and comfortable. A very short time, after the family separate, will serve to accom- plish the rest of the dusting and adorning, and one can pass on to other duties with a (luiet conscience. There is so much time Sjained by early rising, and the early morning abours seem so much less harassing, and less broken in upon, that we cannot but think if those who are now so ready to criticise our suggestion, as over-particular, would try the experiments, they would find so much pleasure that, when once the habit has be- come firmly established, it would be hard to persuade them to go back to the old way of late hours and unmethodical labour. Too large a circle of calling ac([uaintances is not conducive to good housekeeping or to self-impiovement — at least, we cannot im- agine how it can be. It is impossible to per- f(jrm all the duties that must devolve on every housekeeper, even if thoughtless or in- experience present style of living, also, there is of necessity great 'complication of labour and inventions', which do lighten the work by their easy operations are very likely to tempt the ambitious Iiousekeoper to add new items to the list, already too long, of things to be done, because she has found a way to expe- dite the preparation. Thus, instead of using the invention to secure more leisure, she em- ploys the time gained by it to give some ex- tra touches to her work. On this account — because of the abuse of the good things which skill and science furnish — we sometimes think that many of the so-called labour-sav- ing machines, which have been accepted and recognized as such, are often, by this foolish perversion, conducive to evil. Even the se^ving-machine, that wonderful invention which should have been a blessing to all, has been seriously injurious to many, by tempting them to expend on dress the time, strength, and money which could have been far better employed, and would never have been given but for the rapidity with which this machine enable them to accomp- lish the work. If ladies were compelled to hem by hand, in the old-fashioned way, all the ruffling and elaVjovate trimming that is now heaped upon and disfigure a fashionable dress, we think it would not be long before every one would vote that one skirt to a dress was sufficient, and overskirts, panniers, and ruffling would be spoken of as among the absurdities of the past. We are almost hopeless that family house- keeping will ever be made easy, especially that part of it which usually brings the most trouble — the cooking department — and wlien we allow ourselves to think about it we con- fess to a l«nging for some arrangement by which cooking could be dispensed with in private families, and food be f'lruiahed from ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 27 some large public house, where every de- partment, to ue successful, must be systema- tically divided, to a degree impossible when a lady, with the aid of one or two inefficient girh, must perform the work of every de- partment for the whole family. We found the old longing vividly renewed while stopping at tlie Parker House, Boston, some time since. We had tiie pri- vilege of going from the dining-room, through all the many departments, clear down to the steam apparatus which so M'onderfully lightens the heaviest labour. No doubt, most of our large hotels arrang; their extensive oper- ations on very much the same goneral prin- ciples ; but we have never before had the pleasure of seeing the method ))y which the housekeeping of large establishments can, by a well-detined system or organization, be made comparatively easy, and each depart- ment so planned that every one of the large body of servants knows just what is his own particular work, and slides almost nieoliani- cally into his own groove as if moved by machinery. Our stay was of necessity so short that we could give only a hasty glance at arrange- ments wliich we would have been glad to study for hours or days, and therefore we cannot describe that which so interested us. It showed us that, while housekeepers en- deavour to follow the present com])licated and elalxjrate modes of living, private housekeep- ing can never be made comfortably easy, be- cause it is only by the perfect combination of machinery, systematically employed un- der the direction of those who liavs made the management of it a study, that it can be done without bringing a pressure of labour and care sufficient to break down the strongest. We passed from the dining-hall into a large room, from which the waiters receive the dishes so rapidly served, and which are in such quick succession placed before the guests. Here were tlie huge coffee and tea urns, with attendants ready to fill and pass the cups, and the immense caldrons of soup, with long ladles to dip out each kind, when called for. Right opposite stood the tables and sinks for the dish-washers, to whom each parcel of dishes removed trom the din- intr-hall was handed to be washed and piletl up ready for immediate use ; plates, spoons, knives, and every variety of dishes were laid as fast as washed and ilried, at once in their appropriate places, so that the waiters should lose no time in searching for them. Meats, game, fruits, vegetables, and groceries had liere a regular storage-room, and near by were those appointed to select, weigh, and prepare them according to orders, ainl Elace them in the large ice-bins or chests, to e kept in safety till called for by the cooks. It was strange to stand where such large quantities of food were being prepared, and hnd this region, usually stifling with •'he smoke and fumes rising from each article in the process of cooking, as perfectly ventilat- ed, and as free from all disagreeable smells, as any parlour. We had no time to examine the mode by which this desirable result was obtained ; but it was wonderful to look at those immense grates, one huge mass of glowing coals, to see every variety of materi- al simmering, boiling, baking, roasting, or broiling, ?.nd yet no smoke or smell percep- tible — all carried up the flues, entirely out of sight. Then to notice the quiet method or system that was manifested in every branch of cook- ing, each one in charge giving undivided at- tention to his own particular department, his work simplified everywhere by mechani- cal power ; the roasts suspended before these steady fires — beef, veal, mutton, and poultry — all slowly turning, kept in motion by some unseen agency, leaving to the attendant only the care of seasoning, basting, and dishing — everything moving steadily for- ward, made comparatively easy by the skil- ful adjustment of machinery. Wliile these meats were cooking, in other stalls or alleys the cooks were busy prepar- ing various articles to take their place, as soon as done, while the refrigerators were full of other kinds already prepared. In apartments away from the fires, the bread- maker was kneading his dough, cutting oflF and weighing the loaves ready for the pans ; the pastry-cook, surrounded with plates al- ready covered, and rolling the crust to cover others ; close by another, beating eggs, grating lemons, or peeling the fruit, or put- ting together the mateiial which was intend- ed to fill them. In another apartment, the famous "Parker House rolls " were being prepared, wliile large trayfuls were rising, or dozens l)aking, in the immense ovens, which were liglites, a strange sensation and pressure on the brain, and other peculiar symptoms that awaken fears of a dant' f, more to be dreaded than any mere bodily pain. Suddenly the limbs refuse to perform their duty, and paralysis has the vie dm in its grasp. In early youth this foe may be conquered ; but not for long, when one has passed the seventies. But, unfortunately, even late in life paralysis — is not dying. Years of useless helplessness may stretch out before one. " Fly swifter as you near the sun, And brighter shine at eighty-four 1 At ninety-rive Shouldst thou arrive, Still wait on God, and work and thrive I* ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 29 Ah, what mockery aeems hidden in these triumphant words, to one helplessly bed- ridden ! So weary ! so hopeless 1 — knowing that this death-in-life may last for years— ■'Wishing and praying that life might part— Nor yet find leave to die." It is hard enough to feel so useless — to know that for you, life's work is over- — but harder than all, if the mind still retains its balance, to know that those most dear are overburdened — taxed to the utmost in body and mind through their care and watchings over one no longer able to respond — and, if the power of speech is also gone, not even allowed the poor comfort of saying, "I thank you." When at last, through the gates of death, God sends release, friends may weep and mourn to lose one who, however helpless, was always dear ; mit they will naturally exclaim : "Useless — and no comfort to him- self 01' others, but such a burden to all — what a happy release this is ! " Ah ! we can understand how persons, na- turally energetic and loving, may suffer con- tinually most intensely, and yet with a reso- lute will— with little selfishness and great love for friends and home — always trying to father strength each day by looking to ''Our hther" for nelp — can "Fly swifter as they near the sun, And brighter shine at eignty-four." For such, this is not a very hard thing to do. But to be stopped in the midst of usefulness and stricken down helpless — to become a burden where once one was most looked to for help — to meet this mysterious dispensa- tion with patience and courage, and, with- out a murmur, cheerfully wait God's own good time — is an attainment which none aquire but those who live near to Heaven — whose " life is hid with Christ in God." el" ••ORDER IS HEAVEN'S FIRST LAW." If we could succeed by any amount of pa- tient instruction in establishing an earnest belief that order and regularity simplify and lighten labour, full half the trouble that vexes and discourages our housekeepers would be laid to rest. But one is often tempted to believe that "such efforts must be wellnigh hopeless; because in this enlightened age — as we are accustomed to style it — many of our young people are coming for- ward to that period when they must soon assume a housekeeper's duties, but are found poorly prepared to meet the demands which will then be made upon them. Such teaching as will be of any great ad- vantage must begin very early. Let children have a large amount of time for play in the clear sunshine and fresh, open air ; but do not fail to teach them simple lessons daily. There should be a short time every day de- voted to some useful work, and, however unimportant it may appear, let it be a fixed rule, which no excuse may set aside, that whatever is attempted must be well done, and at the proper time. Children are natur- ally very careless, and only ' ' line upon line, precept upon precept," can bring order out of their heedlessness. If good habits are not early established, what can be expected of our children when they are called upon to assume the serious duties of life ? Most of our servants come to ua with ha- bits of unscrupulous carelessness, and these are wellnigh hopelessly fixed through th& example of employers as unmethodical as they are themselves. Through a life of much toil and some hard- ships, how often have we blessed the dear mother's unwearied teachings which, though in early childhood, perhaps, they did not al- ways puide us exactly as we would have chosen to go, yet gradually shaped our char- acter into so much, at least, of order and method as has enabled us to make many "crooked places straight, "and lighten many burdens, which but for these early instruc- tions would have been insupportable ! We are certain that, but for this habit of work- ing systematically, one-half the labour, which in our earlier housekeeping days seemed in- dispensable, could never have been ac- complished by one pair of hands. It is not necessary, nor is there space, to specify each particular phase of household lal)Our that is much more easily and far more expeditiously done when one works systema- tically. But let us give one example for illustra- tion, and that one of the most simple forms of household labour. We refer to the man- ner ( f removing foodand dishes from the tab'e, preparatoi'y to bringing in the dessert. It is torture to sit quietly at the table and witness the manner in which most servant perform this duty. Knives, forks and spoons are thrown in the most reckless way on the greasy places, or among the fragments left on them ; large plates piled over the smaller ones, with, perhaps, a cover or a vegetiible dish between them, and this awkward, un- safe pile is whisked over your guests' head, or your own, while all shrink in momentary expectation that the tottering structure may come tumbling over their shoulders or into their laps, and a sickening vision of broken ttr ALL AROUND THE HOUSE ^f" k china and ruined dresaes floats before the eyes. it this cargo passes safe from the table, it is hurried into the kitchen and "dumped" as carelessly as if it consisted of dish-towels, which very likely lie close by on the shelf — a damp, untidy heiip unfit for use. One has cause for gratitude if there is not a " crash" when this load is so unceremoniously dis- charged. The waiter will be sure and say, •' Nothing broke, mem ; " but the next meal shows that it is far worse than a good, hon- est, open-face break — the edges are nicked, bits of glazing are broken off, and the china 80 defaced as to be ever after a grief of heart to a good housekeeper. Dishes so despoiled of their beauty unfortunately never will break and be forgotten. How easy and far more expeditious it is te pass quietly round the table — first remov- ing the meat and vegetables to the servants' table, then gathering knives, forks, and spoons, into a small pail or receiver, so that each may stand in the dish, instead of being thrown down on the greasy plates, to the great injury of the handles. While the food is being removed K expedites matters, and is a good lesson tor the attendants, if the mistress will quietly gather the plates to- gether, removing the fragments left on them into a dish by her side, and pile each plate and dish in order, according to their size, ready to be set on the side table or into the butler's pantry. Of course, silver, glass, or fine china should never be taken into the kitchen to be cleaned. After meats and vegetables are removed and the pile of soiled dishes carried away, while the waiter takes off the casters, salts, or some clean dishes as may remain on the table, the host- ess can gathei the mats together, and fold the table-towels, all ready for the crumbs to be taken off. If the mistress will give this timely aid, V/hich need in no wise disturb her, a table can be neatly cleared in five minutes and the dessert brought on, without any of the noise and clatter which so often attends this work. This is only one of very many items where a methodical way of doing a portion of daily work will simplify and make it easy ; and whti.e the quiet assistance of the mistress teaches a lesson far more effective than a whole hour of word-teaching. We may have spoken of this matter before, but it will bear repeating, for although it seems a very simple thing, it is over such small items that more time is wasted than on others which are erroneously supposed to be of greater importance. HINTS TO YOUNG MOTHERS. quiet happy babies discomfort and ex- Parents blessed with have little idea of the haustion those mothers experience whose chihlren are nervous and fretful — perhaps crying all the night. It is often said, "A babe in the house is a well-spring of joy ;" and, if the child is most of the time playful or asleep, no one feels inclined to dispute the trutli of the wise old saying"; but that this joy may be unalloyed, some remedy must be found for those strange "spells" of crying by the hour which one is told to bear patiently, because "all children do so for the first few months," and then are sure to develop into this "well-spring" of perpetual joy. And so the poor young mother, perhaps not yet old enough to. be out of school, or from under her motlier's^are, tries to arm herself with patience because "it is always so with young babies " — a most unsatisfac- tory reason, but accepted as inevitable, and without one effort to find relief either for herself or wailing babe. Surely there must be some definite cause for that which robs a mother for months of a large portion of her sweetest pleasure, and makes the new world into which the little pilgrim has entered so truly "a vale of tears;" and if the cause of all tliis trouble can be found, there must also, somewhere, be found a remedy. Now look back to the first few days of this little life, and recall all that transpired which might have afiected the delicate nerves of the tiny stranger, who for weeks should have had undisturbed rest and quiet. How many friends dropped in through the day, "just to peep at baby" — or "to hold the darling for one minute" — or "to wake it this once, and see whose eyes it has !" It cannot be denied that a mothers pride and affection are both giatified by these marks of interest ; yet if allowed to form such bad habits, short naps and restless nights are sure to follow. After two or three such visiits in the course of an after- noon the babe will be thoroughly awakened and excited, and cannot be hushed to sleep. Then the mother, prostrated, needing quiet and rest herself, cannot obtain it, while her new treasure is restless even when in its nurse's care. To take it to the breast — although not needing food — is the quickest and easiest way to quiet it. But broken rest and too frequent nursing will insure pain and crying, .and no remedy can be hoped for until those who have the forming of the child's haWts sV all "cease to do evil and learn to do well. " But here is another baby, that has been lb ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. ^•1 trained in the most approved, common-sense way — washed, drt'ssed, and fed at Jixed houra, and laid in the crib, without rocking, to fall asleep, as Nature meant it should, and under no circumatauces to be disturbed by any aunt or grandiiiothtir till the next meal. All through the day it sleeps, or serenely watches the shadows on the wall, or the bright sun shining through the ciir- tiiins. A little cooing ripple occasionally gives token of its presence, else one could scarce believe there was a baby in the house. iiiit at night, when all should be ready for rest, the little one becomes unea^j', and soon begins to cry. There is no help for it ; tlie child must be taken up. All the usual means are resorted to ; it is patteil and trotted, rocked and sung to, but with no effect. What is the mutter ? Look carefully to tlie Ijaby's clothes. See if some cruel pin is not the occasion of the piteous CMOS. Ah ! here is the cause of all this trouble. Following that most l)ar barons custom, the waists of the underclothes are pinned so tightly that the little body is as round and unyielding as a piece of marble. There is not room for breathing — no elastic- ity. What wonder if, after many hours of jierfect inactivity, the poor baby ]>cgins to lind this unnatural pressure insupportable ? How the limbs must aclie, and the whole body feel stiff and numb ! Speedily un- fasten every string or button, and give the lungs tree chance to expand, and the whole body power to move. Rub gently with the warm hand all down the spine, and every limb, to promote the circulation, winch these heathenish " swaddling" bands have all day impeded. Try this simple remedy ; and if the '^ scrcivs" are not t.gain put on — unless the child is really sick — tlie little martyr will sink into a quiet sleep, when both the r 'rse and mother may hope for unbroken slumber till morning. Now turn to another suffering baby. Its clothes are more sensibly arranged, but the heart aches to hear its piteous cries. Take it up at once. Feel the little blue hands — they are like ice. Draw your chair close to the fire, and, wrapping 4 warm blan- ket about the baby, lay it on its stomach across your lap, holding the cold hands in one of your warm ones. Shake out the fool- ishly long robes till, hidden somewhere in this mass of flannel and muslin, you find the little numb toes, and hold them near the grate, till thoroughly warm. See how it stretches its feet toward the fire, and curls the pretty face close to your warm band. Many a. child who has cried for hours, under such simple treatment will in ten minutes be fast asleep on your lap. Very often simply turning a child over in its crib will dry the tears, cliase away the frowns, and reward the motlier with soft cooings and happy smiles. If a baby becomes restless and appears un- comfortal)le, Hrat let the mother imagine her- self ill the baby's place. Are the hands and feet wni])i>ed too closely, so that the child caiuiot move them ? Would you lie half as quietly as your infant has done for the last two hours, if your limbs were thus fettered? Could you do it without becoming cramjied and full of pain ? Unwrap the swaddling-clothes, and give the 1 mbs freedom ; sliat s up the pillow, turn it over to give the little head a cooler spot ; change its position or take it up if it has l>eeii long in thn crib ; rub it softly, sooth- ingly, toss it gently, anything that will give a ciiunge, and send the blood freely over the whole body. If these devices fail to give relief, it is probable that some of the above-named causes have produced colic, which may require more active remedies. Do not give even the most simple medicines till you have tried what virtue there may be in a warm-water enema. We have never seen it fail, unless the crying indicated the beginning of some serious illness. The effect is magicarwhen a cliild is fretful and restless, ami yet not really sick. If from any cause the mother has been greatly terrified, fatigued, or overheated, she should refrain scrupulously from putting the babe to tlie breast till fully recovered. Un- der such circumstances, if great care is not taken, it must be an exceedingly hardy child who does not show the effects of such care- lessness, by long-continued crying or fatal convulsions. If the mother's excitement proceeds from fright, let her go to her hus- band, or some near frietrti who has power to soothe her into calmness ; if from fatigue, entire rest for a short time must be* secured ; or if overheated, wash the hands and face in cold water — keep awaj from a current of air or draught, and wait till quite cool before taking the child. But a more serious evil may threaten the child — the mother has, it may be, allowed herself to fall into a passion, so that the blood courses wildly through her veins, and the throbbing heart proclaims that all self- CQntrol is lost — for the time being. Let her beware how she approaches her babe, until in her closet and before God she has over- come the evil spirit and is at peace. Better put her little one under the deadly upas 32 ALL \ROUND THE HOUSE. ' i m 1:!-' tree than take it to her bosom in such a state of mind. There is nothing that more seriously in- jures a chihl than to give it its natural nourishment when the mother has lost con- trol of her temper. We can recall several cases where ct>nvulsion8 or idiocy have l)een the result. These facts are not generally believed, because mothers ar-i too little ac- customed to trace the effect to the cause ; but most physicians, who look carefully after the cases that are brought to their observa- tion, will assure you that this no fiction. HOME COLLEGES. 'f None can feel greater respect for the knowledge and accomplishments which our daugl^ters have an opportunity of securing during the years they spend in the best seminaries and colleges of our land, or more heartily appreciate these privileges, than we do. But if those to whose wisclom and ex- perience we bow with great deference judge it necessary that these early years must be given to meitd culture, uninterrupted by domestic training, then we urge, witli enx- Ehatic earnestness, that, after our daughtt rs ave graduated in these public institutions, it should be recognized as equally important that the finishing touciies to a thorough edu- cation should be given under their mothers tuition, in the home college. Until this is accomplished no young lady should be deem- ed competent to enter that school which has no vacation — the married life. Let the heart's highest aspiration for knowledge be gratified, if possible ; but do not ignore the wisdom that can be obtained only oy domestic training. The two should go hand-iu-hand through life. Nothing exem- plifies the wisdom of this union so forcibly and 80 painfully as the multitude of cases where married life is full of discord and fault-finding, through the wife's incompet- ence to manage her domestic affairs judici- ously, and provide an attractive table — a neat and orderly home. If such inefficient matrons have daughters, they will develop into still more helpless women than their mothers, capable of bring- ing nj brightness and happiness into any home. That thought alone should be suffi- cient to make mothers particularly careful that their daughters' intellectual and do- mestic culture should be bleiided in equal proportions. " The first ought ye to have done, but not to have left the other undone, " is a wise direction that one has frequent' occasion to i-ecall in sadness, when seeing young ladies of the highest mental culture, yet utterly deficient in all domestic knowledge, accept a position which they are quite incompetent to fill with honour 'id comfort. When they leave their parei house to make homea for themselves, tlu j destroy all chance of true happiness if they neglect, because dis- tasteful, those duties which they accepted with their marriage vow, or else drag through them heart-sick and discouraged by theirown ignorance. Before promising to perform the (luties of a wife and housekeeper, or home- maker, every young lady ought fully to un- derstand what -day, and tell me mite of well, ytu and a md milk stiffness. you like, w always ow, easy omforting to the y«ung wife, already at her wits' end in view of her own ignorance? But because Mrs. is such a ** fine cook" she goes to her for help in her hour of greatest need, and finds that the coveted lesson has " made tliat darker which was dark enough before. " She never dreamed that rules for cooking could be so hard to understand 1 But let no young housekeeper feel that do- mestic lore is unattainable, or more unman- a^eaV)le than, in her school-days, she found the French and algebra which she so cleverly mastered. Now — as then — patience and perseverance will win the day ; and her love for her husband, and strong desire for his sake to "perfect herself in all housewifely accomplishments," will make this a less gall- ing effort than the other was. We do not like to see young housekeepers feel that the time spent in school must have been wasted simply because at the very threshold they are not victorious in domes- tic cionomy. Everything that tends to cul- tivate the mind and enable one to look at all that passes correctly will come into practical use more frequently in home duties than in fashionable life. Practice must teach much that cook-books cannot ; but a good solid education is the best interpreter of all trou- blesome directions, and tends to make care and otherwise tiresome labour a source of pleasure and solid enjoyment. One of tlie most disheartening vexations that meet the young housekeeper, almost at the threshold of her new home, is the con- Bciousness of her ignorance, and consequent ina'ility to repair damages, remedy evils, or rectify the mistakes that every one is liable to, but which to the inexperienced are pain- fully annoying. They feel these vexations acutely, while an old and competent house- keeper would pass over them lightly. The girlish matron sees the responsibility — feels the full weight of her honours, knows her own weakness, and unfortunately thinks every! )ody else knows them, too — and will be ready to watch her uncertain, faltering steps with a critic's eye. Take courage, poor child. Your slight shoulders will become accustomed to these uuwonted burdens ere long. Old house- keepers are lot half so maliciously critical as your vivid imagination pictures them. They may mischievously smile when you slip in your household cares, but they do not forget their own shortcomings and former igno- rance, and, while amused at your perplexi- ties, they recognize the far-off kinship, and pity while they smile. .-.!■;.. ■ , .. -- ■: 7 ■ . ■ .1. . "EVERYTHING NEAT AND TIDY." " Will vou please tell me how a woman. In poor health, two or three in family, six cows, and no help, can keep things neat and tidy T' We cannot understand how any woman under such circumstances could succeed at all in carrying her bu^'e is, if she did not " kcfep everything neat and tidy." Neat- ness should save work, not increase iL With "a place for everything, and every- thing in its place," and well cleaned before it isput there, one can turn off much more work, with far less fatigue, than if each article used was thrown aside anywhere, to be searched for when next wanted, and cleaned before it could be again used, consuming in the search more time than it would take to do the work for which it was wanted. Every housewife knows that if any article is set aside un- cleaned, it will take more than double the time to get it in a proper condition when next wanted, than if it had been immediately cleansed after using. Knives, forks, spo >ns, plates and dishes, are difficult to clean if left unwashed till what remains on them gets hard and is thoroughly dried. After making bread or pastiy the breadboard and rolling- pin can be washed and made spotlessly clean in less thanfive minutes.if doneimmediat' ly; but set them aside for an hour or two, or until next day, and you will find it a ill tiike time cand strength which you can ill afford to waste, to get them in working order again ; or if used unwashed, and we have known such cases, your bread or pastry will reveal the carelessness. Just so with paint, floors, windows, and each and every kind of work. If you let them pass day after day till dust and dirt accumulate in every direction — for these are industrious workers— by-and-by, from regard to your own comfort and convenience you must take a day, perhaps two or three, to repair the damages, and it will be hard work, and a^ great waste of time; whereas, a few min- utes' dusting or sweeping, or use of a clean cloth and water, each day, will easily con- (juer dust and dirt, moth and rust, and you will find far less fatigue in the operation. We mention these things simply to serve as examples ; the same method carried into all parts of your work will save your time and strength, and yet enable you to " keep everything neat and tidy." "How larp'f' should I make sheet and pillow tidietr Sheet tidies should be as long as the sheet is wide, and about half a yard deep, and laid over that part of the sheet tliat is turned cTc^r the bed-spread at the head of the bed. 34 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. »'■' % Tkey kido tlie wrinkloa aiid tuinhlud look of the ui)j)or sluMjt after it lian lieeii oiuc slept on, aithed,no dish-pans ar needed, except to wash pots and Kettles. But although in the end, this is the best economy, yet the first cost cannot in all cases be anorded. In that case, as the chil- dren sometimes say, " let's play we don't want them," and be well con tent with a wood or iron sink ; and a neat lattice, made of wire or wood, can be fitted over the rinsing- paii with little expense. It is a simple affair, and particularly desirable and useful be- cause it compels a girl to artand her dishes upon thi« lattice or drainer, one by one as she washes them. Tliis prevents the cracks, nicks and breakages, so inevitable when dishes are tumbled into a pan, one on top of the other, large and small together. This arrangement is very convenient where there is a lauge, when the hot water is carried by pipes into tiie sink and can bo made to flow with no trouble, at will, over the dishes that have been washed. Even when the water is not carried into the sink by pipes, but must be brought in a pail or pitcher, these drain- ing and rinsing arrangements are still a great saving of time and trouble. RULES FOR MARKETING. There are a few hints respecting the selec- tion of articles in market, particularly meats, fish and poultry, which may be of service to some of our readers. In purchasing beef take notice of the col- our. If well fed the lean will be a bright red, flecked with spots of clear, white fat, and the suet firm and white. If the fat is yeHow, don't buy the meat ; you may be sure it is stale, and no plausible assurances from the butcher to ths contrary shoald ba accepted. Oz be^ is the best. Heifer beef is lighter* coloured, the fat white, and bones smaller, but the meat is not so sweet nor juicy, and certainly not so economical. Veal should l)e fat, fine-grained, firm and white. If too large it will be tough, unpala> table, and unhealtliy. Mutton. — In selecting mutton seek small bones, short legs, plump, fine grained meat, and be sure that the lean is dark-coloured, not light and bright red, like beef. The fat should be white and clear. When in what is generally understood as prime condition, it is too fat for common mortals' "daily food, " and not at all economical ; and, to perfectly satisfy an epicure, it must be kept till too tender for an uncultivated taste. Lamb shoald be small, light red, and fat. If not too warm weather, it ought to be kept a few days before cooking. It is stringy and indigestable if cooked too soon after killing. Neither lamb or veal should be taken from spit or oven till the gravy that drops from it while cooking, is white. Venifion. — ^In good venison the fat will be clear, bright, and thick. If the cleft of the haunch be smooth and close it is young ; if close and rough it is old. By lunning a sharp, narrow knife into the shoulder or haunch, one can easily learn of its state by the smell. Pork.-r-dreat care must betaken in select- ing pork. If ill-fed or diseased, no meat is more injurious to the health. Tlie lean must be finely grained, and both fat ar.d lean very white. Tlie rind should be smooth and cool to the touch. If clammy, be sure the pork is stale, and reject it. If the fat is full of small kernels, it is indicative of disease. Poultry. — The skin of fowls and turkeys ought to be white and of fine grain. See that the breast is broad and full fleshed. Examine if the legs are smooth, toes supple, and easily broken when bent back. If these signs are not found, the poultry is too old or stale. The same rule applies equally to geese or ducks. When the feet are red and hard, the skin course and full of hairs, all poultry may he pronounced too old for com- fort. When found necessary to keep meat or poultry longer than was expected, sprinkle pepper, either black or red, over it. It can be waslied off easily when ready for cooking. Powdered charcoal is recommended to pre- vent meat from tainting, and some assert that " when fowls have been kept so long as to turn greenish, they can be made as sweet and fresh as ever by sprinkling with pow- dered charcoal an hour before cooking. " It M S6 ALL AROUND THR HOUSF. 41"" may be that the charcoal can make meat dr fowl Bwoet again: hut, after the taint han gone •o far as to aiscolour it, we do not Iwlicve it can ever he hmnght back to a healthy ntate, ami certainly sliouid not advise th(f experi- ment. A greenish tinge is a sure inr powdered, will arrest as well as prevent tlvis change, is doubtless true. In hot weather it is always advisable to keep a jar of charcoal in the store-closet, ready for use if needed. Finh. — No one article of food requires 80 much attention and judgment in selection as fich ; because nothing else, unless it be pork, is so injurious — often fatally so — if stale or out of season. Tlie eyes should be bright, not sunken ; the gills a clear red, not dark colour ; the body stiff, and flesh firm, not flabby and ■limy. Chloride of lime, it is said, will res- tore stale fish to a tolerably good condition ; but we would not recommend any com- promise. " Better is a dinner of herbs" and good bread and butter, than a stale fish, re- novated, and severe illness produced thereby. The taste may be restored m a measure, but the flesh canaot be made healthfnl. A good turbot is full ileshed, thick, and the underside a jjrellowish-white or cream colour. If it has a bluish tint, and is soft and thin, it is not good. Salmon and cod are known, when perfect, by a small head, thick shoulders, and sm!^l tail. The scales of the salmon should be bright and the flesh red. It is perfect only when dressed as soon as caught. Cod should have white, clear flesh, and grow even whiter after boiling, and be firm and sweet, easily separated in b.rge flakes. Hrrri^tj, mackerel, and whitings, are quite unlit to eat unless ' ewly caught. Lobsters, prawns, and s' 'imps, should be very stiff after they are bciled, and the tails turn far inward. When they relax, and grow soft and watery, they are not in a fit condition for eating, and the smell, when at all stale, is sufficient proof of their unfitness. If bought alive, judge of their excellence by their weight and sprightliness. The male lobster is the best, unless wanted for sauces or soups ; then the female is usu- ally chosen for the coral. Oysters are not goad unless they close firmly on the knife when lieing opened. If they can be opened easily, or hold themselves open in the least, they should be rejected. Lobsters and crabs can be found in market at aimost all seasons of the year ; but they are in the best condition and plentiful only from April to the last of October. MILK AND BUTTKR. No one should attempt the care of milk and butter who does not distinctly under- stand that the most scrupulous cleanliness is an abflol'ite necessity, and any deviation from it unnardonable. This is one ai the many household duties that cannot be left to the entire care of servants. The mistresb herself should know how all the work belonging to butter-making muHt l>e done, from the milk is brought m till the butter made from it is nicely packed for use. Of course, we do not mean that the labour may not be performed by the servants ; but in no one department is the daily oversight of the mistress so indispeuHably necessary. This unfailing oversight is important in all the combinations that belong to domes- tic economy. Simply giving directions, without seeing that they are promptly and exactly followed, may possibly pass for good housekeeping, but it will not enable one to keep milk properly or make good butter. Pails, pans, skimmers, butter-prints, and churns must be thoroughly scrubbed in clean hot suds, immediately after using, so that the milk may not dry on. Keep a small, white scrub-brush, with which to scrub the seams, corners, handles, etc., of all utenuils that a«e used about milk, particularly the strainers of the milk-pails. As fast as each article is washed in this way, beginning with the pans, dip them into cold water to rinse off the suds, and then set them into a tub, or large, deep pan kept ex- clusively for that purpose, putting in skim- mers, ladles, and prints last. Then pour over all a large kettle of boiling water, and let them remain in this while the milk-pails and churn are being washed. Rinse these last, also, in cold water, and pour over them another kettle of boiling water ; then, while they are being scalded, wipe the pans, etc., with clean, dry towels, and turn down on a shelf or bench out-of-doors, where the sun can sweeten them perfectly. Then proceed in the same way with pails and churn. A tub or large pan for washing, and an- other for rinsing and scalding, should be kept expressly for these things, and brush, wash-cloth, and drying-towels should be marked, and never, 'under any circum- stances, be used for anything else. Here, also, must the mistress's watchfulness 1^ constant. If her vigilance is relaxed, there is not one girl in a thousand but will use these articles " just this once " for other purposes totally inconsistent with that per- fect cleanliness so very important in this department. " Too much trouble to be so particular," ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 87 J circum- eay yqu ? It is not half the trowble, nor <1(>«H it take so much time oa it aeema when ifUtling. l^ut even if it clues oonsume time, ami is a little truublesome, bear in mind that iiutliini( is ever well duua. witliout time and truuble. The aiitiafaotiun of enjoying the rettult ought to Im) amplu compentiation. In very hot weatlier, if one lias not a gooil cellar, it may be necessary toHcald the milk when tirut brought in. }luve a kottleof Itoil- iug water on the fire ; atrain the milk into a tin pail for that purpone, and net it into the boilnig water till scalding hot ; but be very careful that it does not "crinkle " or "scum" over the top, else the butter will be full of " mealy " grains, and have an unploauant taHte. We do nut think the butter ia so good when the milk is sralded ; Init the cream rises more ra^)idly ami the milk does not Hour 80 soon — an important oonsiileratiou, when without a cool cellar or "spring-house." In cool weather milk shouM never be over tliirty-six hours old. It is poaHible that more butter may be obtained if keut forty- ciglit, though we do not think so ; but what may be gained in quantity will be lost in quality, if kept so long. In hot weather, unless blessed with a large, cool cellar or "spring-house," milk can sel- dom stand over twenty-four hours. Every minute the cream ren)ains ou after the milk changes, injures the butter. The cream is not " lipe ei\ough"is a com- mon remark among daii'y women. We think they miHJudge often In cold weather we churn while the cream is quite sweet, but thick, and the flavour of the butter justifies the method. In very warm weather the cream will sour, although we churn every day, and the effect in the (Shange in the cream on the flavour of the butter is the chief difference we find between June butter and that made in the hot and sultry mouths of July and August ; but a little extra care makes the difference scarcely noticeable. The •'Blanchard churn" is one of the best we have tried, and most convenient, as the washing, salting and working over can be almost entirely done in the churn, with the " wings " or *' dasher " pressing out the buttermilk and sp.lting more evenly, thor- oughly, and with far less fatigue. We saw, last fall, at the New Hampshire State Fair, the "Ballard's Oscillating Chum," which we think will, when well known, become a general favourite. It is simply a plain long box, without "paddle" or "wings" inside, fitted to an oscillating table. The box can be taken off easily, when necessary to air it and keep the table clean. By taking hold of a " rung" or handle, at one end, this box is pushed backward and forward. The fly- wheel on the table regulates and oontia* uea the movement. One of the excel* lences claimed for it is, that the continual "swashing" of the whole body of oream rinses down the sides at every stroke,so that tliere can be no accumulation of "dead" or half-churned cream ou the sides of the churn, which, in other churns, mixes with the but- ter, and doubtless is the cause of the mot- tled appearance of a gi'eat deal of the butter found in the market. This "dead" cream con- tains ciiseinu or the cheesy part of the milk, and injures the flavour, and prevents the butter from keeping in a {^ood condition. We do not see how this churn can fail to 1)6 one of the best. It is a great saving of cream, because that amount which, in otiier churns, becomes "dead " ci;eani, never gathers in this, and all is saved, tlierefore giving more butter. It works just as easily when the cream becomes thick and heavy as at the first. When the cream begins to thicken, ordinary churning bec(jme8 very laborious. If very warm, it is well to put a piece of ice into the churn after tlie butter has come, and let it stiind ten or fifteen minutes before taking the butter out. Tlio butter-bowl should soak in cold water all night. Afterdrawiug off the buttermilk, we throw in a handful of salt, as we fancy it causes the buttermilk to run off" more freely and with less working — which, if too long continued or done roughly, injures the grain of the butter. Mix this salt gently through the butter, and pour over it some ice-water ; work over gently till the water runs almost free of buttermilk. Then add what salt is needed ; press it till no more water will run; bring into a compact ball, cover with a clean cloth, and set in a very cool place. The next morning break up the butter and work it over till all the buttermilk is removed. Then stamp what will be needed for the table till the next churning, place in a jar and cover with cold, clear brine, strong enough to bear up an egg, and cover closely. Pack the remainder into the but- ter-jar, pound it down finiily, fill up with brine and cover closely. We have found that this method, care- fully followed, will secure the best of butter all the year round. Most of the butter sold is ruined oy the amount of buttermilk left in, making it full of streaks and of a poor flavour. No brine or care can keep such butter a week even tolerably good. THOUGHTLESSNESS. ' There are three things, at least, that ars a great source of discouragement to a care« ful housekeeper, namely, the apparent im« 33 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. i^ possibility to teach a servant to shut a door, to use a " holder," or to put tilings in their appropriate places, instead of throwing them about on the floor, table, or chairs. When the cooking is in progress in the kitchen, it is uncomfortable and annoying to find the doors leading into dining-rooms or hall left open, and the steam and all the combinations of odours that necessarily mingle in the kitchen, pervading the whole house. When told for the hundredth time that those doors must not be left open, the invariable reply is, "I only left it open just a minute." They never remember that just that one minute r sufficient to fill the house with disagreeabk odours as effectually as if left open half an hour, and that it will take more than twice thjit length of time to free the atmosphere. To add to this discomfort, when the head of the house, half impatiently requires, "Can't you teach that girl to keep the doors dosed ? " the weary housekeeper knows she can never make him realize that "shut the door " is repeated over and over again, hour after hour, kindly, urgently, peremp- torily — in every member of tone, till her Boul is sick of the sound, and yet "just a minute " is the unvarying, wearisome re- sponse. Good dish-towels of every kind are pro- vided for dining-room and kitchen use ; and with them " holders " are given to both cook and waiter, saying : "Now, girls, if you ust these towels, even the coarsest of them, to take off pots and kettles, to remove food from the oven, to take the dishes to the table, or for anything but their appropriate use, you will annoy me exceedingly. ' The answer will surely be: "Oh, no, mem! Indeed I never do such a thing!" But, almost while speaking, pie, cake, or bake pans are lifted from the oven w ith one of these saine towels, and most likely it is burned or smeared by so doing. " Dear me, I didn't think!" is the ever- ready excuse. There are nice, roomy closets for pots, kettles, and bake-pans ; cupboards with abundant space for kitchen crockery ; yet these utensils are more frequently tlirown on chairs and window-sills than placed neatly and conveniently in the closets, where they can be readily found. This is so com- mon that, whoever sits down on a kitchen- chair, does it at the risk of soiling the dress. Nor is this heedlessness confined solely to the kitchen. It is as common in the diniijg- room pantry, m both departments, dish- towels are often thrown on the chairs, to be sat on by any careless body who ventures to take a seat before seeing if the chair is . safe. The next minute, or shortly after, perhaps, the same towels are used to wipe the dishes ; or, worse still, laid over the bread on the hearth, or wrapped round the loaves when taken out of the pans, utterly regardless o" the large, clean bread-dotlis provided for that purpose, and which should be used for nothing else. No matter how often dish-towels are washed and scalded, they can never be made fit to use on bread or meat. Cloths for both these purposes must be always on hands kept separately and under no circunistance, used for anything else. If this seems too> particular, let one who so considers it take a dish-towel that has been washed, boiled, rinsed, and ironed, with the greatest care, and notice how differently it still smells from any towel that has never been used about dishes. We do not attempt to ex- plain the reasons why such articles retain the odour, but the experiment will, we think, satisfy any one that it is not pleasant t<> think of their being used about our food. Until servants can be taught to overcome such careless habits, any one quick to ob- serve, or with a fastidious stomach, will not find tlie frecjuent visits to the kitchen, which are of so much importance, conducive to a good appev'te. And yet unceasing vigilance is the house- keeper's only safeguard. This is a lesson which manj' j'oung housekeepers, or those who are unwilling to give more time and thougnt to their household cares than they spend in social calls or amusements, must learn in time, through the increasing dis- comforts at home, and the little "leaks " and " wastes " that, after a year or two of neglect will l)ecome too apparent to be longer overlooked. A young matron little by little wakes up to the fact that certain things that were fresh and pretty a short time ago are grow- ing clouded, ding\', or a hole here and there ajipears far too soon to be accounted for by the regular wear and tear of daily use. "Just look at this fine damask towel! How giay and dirty it is I What can have happened to it ?" she says to the girl, who brings up a basket of freshly washed and ironed clothes. " And here are those heavy huckabuck towels with great holes all over them, evidently not torn, but ; otually worn through ! What does it mean, Mary ?" "An' sure I don't know, mem. They were so when they came to the laundry. " Had the lady been particular in noticing the mj^nner in which her work was done, she might have seen her chambermaid scrub-- ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. w V is . safe, perhaps, tvipe the )ver the id round he pans, e, clean pose, and 86. iwels are : be made I for both }n hand» I Distance, eems too i it take a I, boiled, test care, II smellfl teen used jt to ex- ies retain we think, leasant to^ food, overcome k to ob- i, will not len, which jive to a he house- a lesson or those time and han they •uts, must asing dis- " leaks " )r two of > he longer ivakes up ;hat were ire grow- and there ;d for by use. ik towel 1 can have girl, who ished and lose heavy 1 all over I i otually it mean, m. They jndry." Q noticing was done, oaid scrub- bing the marble halls with these expensive towels, taking them from out the dirty clothes, to save herself the trouble of ffoing down stairs for a regular scrub-cloth. Hav- ing seen it once, she would have probably taken steps to prevent a repetition of such ruinous work, and have saved her towels. We have seen such practices in houses where we had no right to interfere, but earnestly desired to have the mistress rouse up suffi- ciently to see the destruction that was going on about her. We cannot tell what can be devised to overcome the untidy and helpless nabits so prevalent among servants, but are fully convinced that there can be no change until our housekeepers, as a class, are more earnest and constant in superintending their work, and their servants iearn that they can no loi^iger conceal their shortcomings. TIME NOT W^ASTED. There are many who feel annoyed at directions for unremitting watchfulness in household affairs, and think house- keepers waste time and strength if they attempt, practically, to carry out important suggestions ; but we imagine those critics labour under mistaken ideas, or are of that class who believe in taking life so easdy that untidiness and carelessness may be carried to any extent, and property, by such neglect, be constantly wasted, rather than have their ease and pleasure broken in upon, by the amount of care necefiary to good housekeep- ing. To give up a ball or party now and tiien for tlie r)urpose of some little extra attention to home duties, or to be interrupted in the most liewildering parts of a higldy sensational novel, only to correct some error or carelessness in the various departments under, or which should be considered under, their supervision, is what such housekeepers call " waste of time," Until there is some provision by which ser- vants can lie carefully iustructeer- plexing, because it is so seldom that on-" can l)e sure that the most careful instructions will be carried out. An order is given so definite^ and distinct that forgetfulnesa or mistake would seem impossible. " Do this immediately, that it may not be forgotten. You fully understand me, do >oun<.t ?" " Oh, yes, mem ; certainly." " Well, now please repeat exactly what I refju ■ ted you to do, that I may be quite sure that there will be no mistake." And the directions are repeated correctly and quite satisfied the lady turns to other ' oares which, with many unavoidable inter- ruptions — especially if the home lies in the city — may fully occupy time and thought for hours ; or, it may be, a few days' absence is necessary. After some hours or days have elapsed, you say to the girl : " Did you attend to the directions I gave you a short time since ?" specifying the particular object, and a prompt ** Yes^ mem," is expected. But, instead, one ia deafened by a storm of excuses and reasons for having forgotten or neglected the orders. This constant watch over every depart- ment is no fioubt very wearisome and haras- sing. If strengtli and other duties woule seen in articles— in care- istinct as )n become laps, he worthy of \nt— Bub- carer, and are thus see how the first peated we proof. If» repeated, lor prompt erally more lan iu aoy The soap spots faith- are thrown vercd with ugh it, no laun*.li]¥i^s u«t>4 lopk ior any groat credit to|r luer Ifthour. The piji^iog^ub should have a g^nerouB supply lof water. The bUieiugr-r»ot a great deal^Sihould be cacefuUy atioced in, and not many pieces put in at a time. Each article needs to be vigorously shakjen up and down in the water, and fully opened, that the water may flow freely through every part. Then, having passed it through the wriuger, shake it out and hold up to the light, to be sure that all spots or dirt are removed. Put no pieces into the basket just as it comes twisted out of the wringer ; bat shake it out, and pass at once into the second tub of freah, slightly blued water, to be again rinsed w th the same care and thoroughness. If there are tubs enough to spare two for the last rinsing, it is well to leave clothes soak- ing in tliem till all the white clothes have been passed through the first rinsing-water. Then, in the last rinsing, be sure and leave nothing in the " twist" from wringing, but shake out each piece before throwing into the basket, and liang ' ut as soon as the basket is full. Clothes should lie on the line as quick as possible after the last wringing, or there will be danger of some yellow streaks. If possible, clothes should be dried in the open air ; but if very windy or freezing,they ought not to be starched till they have been dried and brought into the house. Clothes must not he thrown carelessly and u. ev ;uly upon the line, but well snapped out, and hung up straight and smooth. Blankets, bed-spreads, sheets and table-hnen particularly require to be thus carefully hung up, briuging the hems or selvage together straight and true, and pinning strongly to tae line. These minute directions may seem trivial, and, perhaps, whimsical, but the wisdom will be proved by the ease with which clothes thus treated can be ironed, ti.e plea sure experie'toed when one sees them, neat an escape from the city this very trying weather, and enjoy the coolness and freshness of ihis pure air. One eems to lay in strength and health for fall duties by these short periods of rest. Are you fond of the country ?" •'Y-e-s. For a short time. Can't say I should be content to remain long, howisver. A (lay or two at most will quite satisfy me. There is much said about the pleasures and superior comforts of country life, at least in the summer. I don't exactly see it. As far as creature comforts are concerned, I cer- tainly secure better fare, finer vegetables, more desirable meat, poultry and tish, and fai more enjoyable accommodations, with less effort, in the city, than I ever found in the country. Tiie corn is miserable — no- thing, in fact, but field corn, I think, whereas our city markets supply tLe best and sweetest. To be sure I had aome very nice peas yesterday, for a woiider ; but generally, for some reason I cannot under- stand, all the vegetables one gets in the country have a disagreeable, earthy taste, that the city market-gardeners manage to get rid of." " I am surprised at what you say. 1 never fail to find the sweetest corn and peas, the finest vegetables of every description, far better than I can possibly get in the city ; and then if there were no other advantages, we escape the mosquitoes. " " Yes, I know it is claimed that there are none of those annoyances ; but that claim is not allowable. I find nothing in the country that can at all compensate for the loss of luxuries and superior comfort that I secure in the city. The beds are generally detestable — the lights an abomi- nation — dirty, greasy, smoky lamps, or the feebler light of a country dip, besides the trouble of keeping them in order. We avoid all this in the city. We have only to lignt the gas, and there is an end to all that trouble." The cars starting just then, we lost, in the rattle and confusion they made, the re- mainder of the conversation : but what we had heard furnished food for reflection for sometime, " Where ignorance is bliss 'tis folly to be wise," is an old, but we think a very false, idea. If we knew where this city-worshipper passed the few houra he spends in the country it might satisfactorily explain his erroneous imprcsions. But we tliink we can give a pretty close guess. He probably stays at an hotel, where all the vegetables are bought in the market and carelessly cooked ; or it may be at some friend's, who, having no garden of his own, is compelled to purchase his provisions from the same source ; or, if freshly gathered, they are left in the hot sun, or Hotter kit- chen, to wither and grow stale, and thea have their ruin completed by the ignorance of the cook, to whose care they were con- signed. There is nothing in the culinary depart- ment that requires so much care and watch- fulness from the time they are gathered till they are ready for the table aa vegetables,, and nothing can be more easily cooked, and cooked right, when once the proper manner of preparing them is thoroughly understood, that is, if one can have access to a good gar- den, where such things as deteriorate by keeping Ciiu be gathered the same day they are to be eaten. If the vegetables of which this man complained were stale to begin with, and then badly cooked — all boiled to- gether, as is common in many hotels, and aa some farmers' wives are jcontent to cook them — we have no doubt that more palatable viands could be procured at a good hotel, or in his own family in the city, and certainly not those that can be as nutritious and safe, as in the country. The remark that "some- how all the vegetables one gets in the coun- try have a disagreeable, earthy taste the city gardeners manage to get rid of, " reminds us of the city lady who dismissed her con- verted milkman, because there was a nasty yelloM' scum on his milk, so different from the clear, blue-white milk he had formerly served her with. Perhaps the earthy taste complained of in the country vegetables could be accounted for by a similar explanation : they were like pure milk,so much richer than the stale, tasteless things found in city markets that to a city-nurtured palate the taste was foreign and mysterious. A few rules for gathering and preparing vegetables in the country may be given, which, if carefully observed, will secure their being brought to the table in an excellent condition, and eaten without one murmur of dissatisfaction. First be sure that they were raised from the best of seed. It is useless to expect good vegetables unless they spring from the most perfect and best variety of seed. '* Do meu gather grapes of thorns or figs of this- tles ? Those who cultivate but a few acres simply for family use, having learned the importance of choosing their seed with care, are every year becoming more and more par- ticular in their search for the finest varieties. More depends on this than farmers have been accustomed to think ; but seeing what can be done by amateur gardeners through care, 46 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. and reaifling the snccesB of other experi- menlis, tney are giving mnch more atten- tion to this than wm customary iu former years. The result is that there is no longer any exouM for having a poor article brought from either yeur own garden or the tnarket. . , It is the length of time they have been cathered and the manner in which they have Men prepared, that must determine the character of vegetables. All vegetables are itijnred by lying ex- Eosed to sun and rain ; but corn, peas, fresh Bans, asparagus, and lettuce become per- fectly worthless. They should be gathered while the dew is yet on them, brought to the bouse, and placed at once in a cool plftce 1 where the suu will not strike upon them. It I is better to leave com in the husk, -peka and beans in the pods, until it is time to prepare i them for cooking. Then watch that tney are not left long in water ; if, indeed, you can- not avoid washing them entirely. Corn when taken from the husks needs no wash- ing ; simply remove all thfe silk. If there is a black or rusty spot. on an ear of com, iff reject it entirely ; it shows the beginning of ' disease. j It improves a mess of peas, adding greatly "; to their sweetness, to boil the pods, after I > ,, shelling, about fifteen minutes in the water ' ' you boil the peas in. For this purpose, it is necessary to pour cold water over th« pods, to remove dust or minute bags that may have been upon them. Wash quickly, and then leave them to drain before shelling. The peas, of course, after this need no wash- ing ; neither do beans. Asparagus should be washed quickly, to remove all dust ; but must on no account be left in the water a moment after it is clean. As soon as washed put in a oolander to drain, and then over the Btove to cook as soon as you can. All vege- tables should be laid in the saucepan in which they are to be cooked, with sufficient }i; salt to season tprinkled over them ; then i<, boiling water poured on, and the whole brought to a boil immediately, else they be- come of a brownish colour and look very un- inviting. The salt, either put on them first, or the water salted before they are put in, prevents the colour clianging. Then boil, or a still better way, steam them for the proper time. Twenty minutes for* asparagus, peas, and com, is long enough, never over thirty minutes : when so old as to need longer cooking, they are too old to use at all. Fresh beans require longer time, unless very young ; from three-quarters to an hour will De necessary. All vegetables are much sweeter and fresher when steamed, particularly if you use one of the " Rumford' boilers " or " Fer- ris's cooker, " wnere they are inclosed in a tightly-covered pan, or saucepan, so that neither water nor steam can touch them, but the water boils underneath the dish, cookinc by the heat. In this case, the seasoning, and just as much water as is necessary to tak« up with thiB vegetables, should be put with them into the saucepan — not a drop more. Ybn thus secure all the sweetness and juices of your vegetables, without weakening or destroying the flavour. But if you Doil them, use as little water as possible. We think if a few dishes of country vege- tables, gathered and cooked in this manner, were set before those who imagine they find equally good supplies in the city market, they would completely change their opinion. This is hard on those persons whose home is, and must be, in the. city. But there is a remedy even for them, if situated so that they can, either by rail or carriage, ride out a few miles to the market gardens, and buy theii* vegetables direct from the field where they grow. In this Way they can have as fresh food as those more highly favoured, whose home is in the country. But there are many who cannot afford to do this, or have not the time, and in these cases their igno- rance is a bliss from which it would be folly to try and awaken them. j •, . i^ ^ MUTUAL RESPECT.'''-',''. '.^T \ When ladies meet together, it is a very common thing for them, in a half-jesting manner, to speak slightingly of their hus- bands, as if they thought, "We are the people, and wisdom will die with us. " " Oh, dear ! what can be expected if one trusts an errand to one's husband ?" '• Who ever hear(l that a man could put anything in the right place !" etc., etc. Of course the listener assents, and at once proceeds to corroborate the assertion by detailing her own more trying experiences — all in good nature, to be sure. They are the happiest, most cheerful company or martyrs that ever was seen. Each wife would be ready for a battle in a moment, if by her remarks any one was led to imagine that this same troublesome, inefficient husband was not as near akin to the angels as can be expected iu mortals. But it must be con- fessed that a listener, who sits by for an hour, on boat or car, in an hotel or at a social gathering, can hardly fail to decide mentally that husbands, at best, are but troublesome comforts, needing a watchful guardian to furnish constant advice, admoni- tion, or reproof. We recall a scrap that was handed us far back in eaxly youth, entitled, " Jiespect due All AR6UNT) THE JTOUSU 47 [ in a I that 1, but okine g.and 3 take b with more, juices ing or tU Doil r vege- lanner, jy find iiarket, pinion, lome is, 31-e is a so that nde out ,nd buy 1 where have as ivoured, here are or have lir igno- be folly a very -jesting leir hus- are the li i if one )uld put etc. at once •tion by riences — • Y are the martyrs ^•ould be by her that this and was can be be con- r for an or at a decide are but watchful admoni- id us far •sped due to Wivet," which ran something like the fol- lowing : ' ' Do not jest with ymir wife on aubjects that may wound her feelings. Romember slie treasures every word you utter. " Do not speak of great virtues in an- other's wife, to remind your own of a fault. " Do not treat her inattentively in com- pany ; it touches lier pride, and she will not respect you more or love you better for it. " Never upbraid her in the presence of a third party. Tlie sense of your disregard of licr feelings will prevent her ever confessing her fault. " Do not he stern and silent at home, and remarkable for sociability elsewliere " We rememljer thinking this excellent ad- vice, and we have not lost our belief in it, knowing it is often greatly needed ; but we see niauy reasons for l)elieving that wives need tliese cautions quite as much as their husliands. Perliaps it is the perversity said to be inlierent in woman's nature, but we must acknowledge being so far beliind the age as to be guilty of a little sympathy and feeling , for husbands, and believe tliey are also entitled to respect and delicacy. We would like to ask some good wives, in a quiet, ' unobtrusive way, if we could, a few such ! questions as these : "Do you never jest with your husband; upon subjects that you are sure will wound ; his feelings, and do it purposely to hurt him a little, by way of retaliation, 'to pay off old scores ?' " Do yon never tell him some great excel- lence in your friend's husband, to remind him of faults in his own habits or character ? " Do you never treat your husband inat- tentively or impertinently in company ; while you are cordial and polite to other and less noble men ? "Do you never blame him impatiently in the presence of a third party ? What woman is more sensitive to censure than a husband in the presence of others, when it falls from his wife's lips? He may be too proud to show or speak of it ; bat do you believe he forgets it ? " Are you never cross and silent in your own home, with no one to entertain but your husband, but full of life, and wit, and amia- bility, in company?" While it is right and just thai hnsbandi should take these suggestions to heart, and endeavour to augment the joys of home, should not wives also listen to like truths and profit by them ? Are we not equally blameworthy ? Ay ! more so, for home is our kingdom, where we may reign supreme if we hold the sceptre with a gentle hand, and with the law of love and kindness ever on our lips. We liavu known yonug people l)egin life with every promise of perfect happiness, yet make entire shipwreck of all by their own ungnartled words, impatient looks, and un- regulated temper. A talent for spicy and V>rilliant repartee may enliven a party, give zest and picinancy to social intercourse, and endow its possossoi with a certain position, enviable or otherwise ; but in the liomo circle it is a dangerous gift, and unfortunately one more freijueiitly Ixsntowed upon the wife than u])on the husband. We have often recoiled as from a blow, whoii hearing those who should be one in heart draw comparisons prejudicial to one another, and complimentary to others, pre- faced with some stinging remark. Do they remember that in marriage they take e<\ch other's honour in keeping to cherish or des- troy : and that God has made the bond so inseparal)le that all honour bestoweil on the one passes over and is shared by the other, and all disgrace or error that militates against the one is equally injurious to the other? There is much said of injustice to women — of her sliglited feelings, and her rights ig- nored — the possibility of her attaining literary eminenoe or being equal to man being scoffed at, and her efforts to elevate her sex met with ridicule and contempt. Now, we are not indifferent to any work that has for its aim the elevation of woman, but we are often mortified at the snappish manner that is manifested by some who cannot speak of "woman's rights" without a tart and vixen- ish fiing at man. Oar /cUher8, brothers, husbands, sons — are they not bone of our bone, flesh of our flesh? If we press forward for the prize which may place us side by side with these dear rela- tions, why may we not work hand in hand with them, instead of attempting to be on the defensive or aggressive? We cannot think that the other sex — to whom we be- long, and who belong just as truly to us — will attempt to bat our progress in any ef- forts to rise, if we retain at the same time our own individuality, the character of true, gentle, loving women — a much more noble type of womanhood, and far more likely to gam the end sought after, than that imperi- ous, fault-finding kind, which will only bring us reproach. We are fully aware of all that is said of man's rough, abrupt, overbearing ways. There is much truth m it ; and it is not at all attractive, or to be excused. But, since the days of old Qeen Bess, perhaps by deal- ".'"'^" 48 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. ^ ing henestly and impartially with ourselves, we might iind enoup;h of the same qualities in our own sex to establish our claim, at least to sisterhood, if not to equality. But ad- mitting that these are purely masculine elements, which find no response in our own character, can we not learn a way to conquer and eradicate even these nncomfortable and umlesirable characteristics in men ? When the storm descended in great wrath the traveller wrapped his cloak more closely about him. But the wind cauglit him, and roaring furiously, rocked him, to and fro, whirling him like a feather along the road, in vain endeavours to tear his cloak from about him. He only hugged it all the more closely, and defied the storm and wind. But when the sun came gently and noiselessly to him, the iron will and sturdy frame that battled so successfully with the rough and boisterous tempest, bowed down before the genial, loving infiuence, and cheerfully ac- knowledged his conqueror. And 80 may every wife, if she will, when she first enters the married life, assert her power and secure a most willing, loving sub- i'ect ; where arrogance and impatience will >ut bring her a rough and stubborn oppo- nent.. We are aware that half of the seemingly good natured complaints and assertions that are so often re-counted where two or three women are met together are not meant un- kindly, but only a sportive way of making and keeping up a sprightly vein of conversa- tion. But there really is no wit in it. It is a bad habit, and may lead to unpleasant con- sequences. That which is often repeated in sport may, in time, become so familiar as to leave the impress of reality ; and before the wife is cQ^iscious of it, the tiny blemishes in her husband's character may have developed, through her imagination and oft-repeated words, into serious faults that threaten much unhappiness. The best cure we can recom- mend IS for the wife to turn resolutely from those shortcomings that look like faults in her husband, and honestly take an inventory of her own shortcomings and mistakes. She will need no magnifying glasses to find plenty of them. Having found them, let her as honestly place them side by side with what she thinks wrong in her husband, and perhaps she will not feel inclined to carry the investigation farther, but rest content, and bless the union which God has sanctioned, and will bless ii sbs do^s w^U h^r pt^rt, ,i<..t f.': *i hrjii : it ni niirii \\-\ I ■, «./»■- HOW SHALL WE DRESS T During the past three months applications for assistance have l>een painfully fre({uent. To be sure, such calls are always numerous ; but the character of the applicants is widely dissimilar from any former experience. We often see on the door-st«p two or three rough, strong, untidy women, laughing, talking, careless and lazy ; but the moment the door is opened their whole demeanour changes. The look of great distress flashes 80 swiftly across their faces that one can scarcely determine when the laugh ceased, and the doleful drawl began. We are be- wildered by a well-learned and rapidly-ut- tered statement of misery — " Five children without food, clothes, or fire ; husband ab« sconded, or deait efore rinsing, and yor be surprised to find with what con- ease you will be able to dress. ( e on deck ; ' make an effort, ' no m. aow badly you feel. Once there, you will be all right. Keep on deck — out of your berth all day, and as late at night as you can." " Do not touch coffee on shipboard. It will make you bilious, and insure the evil you arc hoping to avoid. If at all nauseated, keep (piietly in your berth all day. If not too cool, have the doors and windows opened ; but on no account attempt to rise." " There is nothing better than lemons. Keep one in your hand, and taste a little of the juice now and then ; it will refresh vou and settle the stomach. But let oranges Uttei agree, Of is tJie 'lot « soiial jority. may " Novel 'jid an( gather perien( That h cro.ss tl weatlie liiiii.self but ' lieed, 1 most take j sieian w |i'ea.soa f , -A .sevi |'>oeii tJie ■'I folle tdvkvd a l"'e wiiu: T • » ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 1-4 «t irfl are more ilkH of i\iietl, ft teineut AND xit some offer— iiver waB n balm" I if not ;h, why, ftll your Diition to ,aered by frieuilB ; not to be disBiniilar rtain — re- that we jmile." you first you have :e not half lya before ike gentle before you jtem in a id be fully ime freely, ul Bubcluea oxint touch They will h, inducing 'ee, withf id yo'' on* ( « in. ''ow 1 will be all ur berth all lean. fpboard. It Lue the evil ll nauseated, ilay. If ""* lid windows attempt to Ithau lemons. kte a little of \\ vefresli vou let oraugiiS alone entirely ; they will not digest easily, and will make you bilious." " Reject lemons altogether. At firat they may seem pleasant and refreshing, but will only increase your discomfort ; but oranges are nourishing as well as nalatable, and if eaten freely, will prove highly beneficial." "Take soups, highly seasoned. The pop- per and other seasonings will warm and in- vigorate ; but avoid brotiis, gruels, etc." " On no account venture on liighly-sea- sonod soups. Tliey derange the stomach ba8 ; and, when at all pooo.ble, a quail or Eigeon, it there are any on board, or, next est, a chicken, carefully broiled and seasoned with pepper and salt — no butter — may be ac- cepted by the unruly stomach when stronger meats, gravies, soups, and gruels, are at once rejected. But this course may not be best for all. Therefore, let each be a law unto himself ; but be good-natured,anyhow. If you do not feel so, act it a short time and the genuine article will soon follow. Amid all your dis- comforts, try and bear in mind that the long-suffering stewardess is mortal as well as yourself. Do not keep her running up-stairs and down for a dozen different things, when you very well know that for the present you cannot touch them, and her fatigue will be vain. '• Do unto others as you would that others do unto you." A VISIT TO A SUGAR PLANTATION. On a recent visit to Cuba, we were shown A plantation about twelve miles from Ha- vana. It is not a large one, and vith none of the modern improvements of some very ext 3usi\te and interesting manufacturies far- tlier inlaful, which we would gladly have visited had time and war then permitted. At the terminus of the railroad we took car- riagrs to convey us to the mill, two or three miles from the town, A rough, private road, leading through large green fields of cane, reminded us vividly of the immense fields of tall VVwrtern corn we have so often seen in Indiana, only the cane is planted near to- gether, without those cleanly-hoed spaces be- tween whicl) are always seen in a well-culti- vated cornfield. Reaching the mill our attention was first called to the huge stacks of cane, piled in front of the building, ready for grinding. Some fifty men, women and children, from three years up trt seventy-five, and long past that age, judging from their appearance, were actively engaged in caiTying tlie cane in their arms to the tramway, or perhaps, more properly, causeway, over which by machinery it was conveyed to the hopper. Little y Tots" and " Dots" of boys and girls — so tiny that our young mothers would have rocked them to sleep in their arms or ex- pected the nurse to do so, came up with their bundle of cane to throw on the inclined plat- form, as busy as bees, but far less noisily proclaiming their industry. They made ua think of little ants attempting to drag a straw or grain twice as large and heavy aa themselves. Scarce a sound was heard among that ac- tive throng, except the rustling of dry leaves under their feet, or the pieces of cane striking one against another as they were drawn out of the pile. Occasionally some old person gave a short, quick order to the young ones not to loiter, but we thought any such command superfluous. No merry laughter, nor the pleasant sound of childish prattle — little children, with the tired, dis- pirited look of old worn-out men and women I It was sad to look upon. Not sad that they were trained to habits of useful industry, but that, by overwork, laying the burden of age on youthful shoul- ders, all the sweetness and joyousness of childhood were crushed out and destroyed, with nothing better to look forward to *' through all life's wearisome way." Of tlie "wings — some day I " probably they nevor| hear, and, to them, all that the future pro- mises is work, work, until they find the only | rest they know of — the rest of the grave. Carts, loaded with cane, fresldy gathered, were coming in every little while, replenish- ing the pile faster than tlie silent workers | could take it away. But when the noon- bell struck its first note, the dumb spoke,] and the many words, so long sappres.si'il, I found utterance. Yet, even now, the fun I and frolic, and harlequin tricks so peculi.irl to the coloured race the moment their winkl is done, were wfinting. The oxen, whiehl had just brought in their load of cane, lias-f tened to the trough close by, wliorel water was constantly running, InitJ most of the drivers threw tliemsehesl down on the case-heap. A iSk of the cliil dren gathered some of the green leaveil remaining on the wvne, and, lying down oa the ground near the oxen, hold it up fol them to eat, but most of these little niuil curled themselves up in the sunniest i>ailj ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 63 long that ac- ling of dry (icces of cane 18 they -were sionally some order to the e thought any No merry id of childish he tired, dis- lut men ainl upon. Not to habits of by overwork, routhful shoul- joyousness of nd destroyed, )k forward to way." Of the ly they never he future pro- jy find the only f the grave. ■shly gathered, hile, replenish- silent workii's hen the noon- (Uunb spoke, in^ suppressi'il, now, the fun .cks BO peculiar lent their work 4ie oxen, whioh| ,iul of cane, hii3- 1)36 l)y, wlierel running, hiH rew themselves iSk of the clul- le green leaveJ| lying down on , held it up H these little <>iu1 \e sunniest V^^'l they could find by the fence, to sleep till called to dinner. With the first note of the bell, the women, whose "work is never done," hastened to the " bairacoon," — a large two-storey huihling — the first floor usedto cook food for tlie labourers, and for all the house-Work that tliey had time to attend to. The second Hoor was the nursery, where over one hun- dred bal>io6 are kept and cared for by chil- dren almost themselves, while their mothtra are working out-doors. But we will return to the mill. As the cane is laid on this causeway or platform, Mld'-h, by some niachinery, is constantly pass g up and down, it falls into the hop- ]ier, regulated by men in attendance, where it is ground into fine fibres ; and as the mill revolves the juice is pressed out, and the piunmace, passing from behind the first entrance on to another moveable platform, is carried out, an-1 falls into the cattle-yard heyuiid. Tliere is somo little saccharine proi>erty left, and the pigs and cattle feed upon this pummace, which, after the animals have gleaned all they can, is, we are told, mixed with other compost and spread over the fields, to be ploughed in when pre- paring for the next harvest. As the cane is ground and crushed, the jiiiee flows through large baskets into the vats ur receivers below. Tliese bai^kets are placed above the vats to catch the^ juice and strain all the small bits of cane tliat may fall in while it is being ground ; and, to make assurance doubly sure, some old women, too decrepit to work out-doors, are seated, down in the dimly-lighted apartment, by the vats, and, with their hands, skim out whatever bits of cane may have escaped the straining. 84ueezing and wringing them as dry as pos- Bihle, tlien throwing them into waste- baskets to be carried to the yard with the rest of the pummace. From these reservoirs the juice is conveyed by tubes, I think, to large boilers, and by a process which I did not clearly understand, 13, hy steam, condensed, and turned into a tiiick, black syrup — a quicker and less expensive mode than boiling. The syrup llowa into troughs which lead to another set of vats, still lower, and at the far end of the building. In these compartments, negroes and Chinamen, mostly naked, save a pair of short di-awera, buttoned round the waist and reaching only half-way to the knees, stand ankle-deer in this black mass of syrup ! The iiyrup, after leaving the condenser, becomes too cool before reaching the lower vats to flow easily ; and this gang of men, ^vith wooden shovels, scrape or shovel lit into large tanks which have ma- chinery inside kept in rapid motion, and by this centrifugal force all the sugar in the thick, black-looking syrup is grained and thrown out into other receivers, while that which does not grain runs otf below and is put into barrels by another set of labourers. Still another gang of darkies and *' heathen Chinee " stand barefoot in the sugar, and shovel it into boxes, ready to be sent to New Yoi'k to be refined and purified. Need enough of purification, one would think, after having been waded through so long by the filthy beings we saw walking in it. Is there any process so cleansing that we shall ever, without reluctance, venture to taste sugar or molasses again ? It seems that Yankee ingenuity might find a cleaner mode of makintr sugar. We were told that many oi the larger manufactories were much more cleanly, and that in them the work which we saw performed in- this repulsive manner was done by machinery. We shall be glad to see these improvements, if only ■ to remove the extremely disagreeable im- pression made by this our first visit to a sugar plantation. PLAYING CROQUET. ** I ejcceedingly desire to obtain your op- inion and advice on a matter which some may think does not belong to your depart- ment ; but, interpreting you by the counsels you have already given us, I judge that in your estimation the ' Household ' means all the family relations, as well as the manual labour of household duties, and the direc- tions and receipts for the performance of them, I therefore venture to write you. " I have three daughters, the eldest eighteen years old. Their most intimate companions, though children of Christian parents, are allowed many more social amusements than I can, with a clear con- science, indulge my children in ; yet I find it very hard to deny them much that I fear I do wrong to grant. There are some kinds of amusements that I do not think wrong ex- actly, but they tempt to great waste of time, and my girls become so absorbed in them, particularly if their companions are with them, that I am constantly troubled lest real duties will be neglected and time fool- ishly wasted through my lack of firmness. •' For instance, do you think it right t« play croquet ? My daughters enjoy it greatly, and urge me to join in the game with them. I alwayswish,a8 far as possible, to make myself a desirable companion for them, participating, when I can, in all their amusements ; but all these tilings fritter away so much time, which should be more 64- ALL GROUND THE HOUSE, profitably employed ; and worse than that, I cannot but think it must tend to excite jealousy, rivalry, and dissatisfaction «nd heart-burnings, that may in time oeparate chief friends. " Just before reading this letter we had been playing a game of croquet, and were ignomi- niously beaten. Had we been called to reply to these questions at the moment, perhaps we should have been tempted to assert that all such games were a waste of time. But, soberly, we feel bound to say that the indi- vidual who invented croquet was a public benefactor, for it tempts to exercise in the open air, and brings into healthy action all the muscles of the back, chest, and anns, more than any other out-door exercise that we have any knowledge of, in which young girls and women have strength to partici- pate. If they have been sitting long at any kind of work, or are overburdened, anxious, or despondent, this variety of exercise has sufficient excitement and interest to change the whole t nc of the uiiiid and united with the tonic of pure, fres hair, will enable them under its in- vigorating influence to bear such burdens as seemed, a short time before, wellnigh in- supportable, and assist them to look at the cares and perplexities of life in a more hope- ful manner. Any simple amusement that does this cannot be harmful. AH the evila that can spring from it — envy, jealousy, ami heart-burnings — beset us on every side. Prayer for deliverance from such temptation, and great watchfulness in everytiiing we do, will be our only protection— but are no more needed in our social life and amusements than in every act of oiir lives which brings us in contact witli imperfect human beings like ourselves. Some very strict people say, "Why seek exercise in such frivolities when there is a large variety of useful work sufficient for all the exercise necessary for liealtli ?" A change in the labour perfoi-med is doubtless one kind of rest ; but every one is benefited by slort periods of relaxation and amusement as nuich as by change of work or entire rest. The mind often needs to throw off' care and un- bend for a short period, and we know of nothing that will more eff"ectually do this than crof|uet. There is an exhilaration in trying one's skill in knocking the balls about with force and precision that enlivens the spirits, chases away despondency, and pre- pares the players to return to official duties or in door-labours wonderfuliy cheered and invigorated. We speak of croquet, as that was the spe- cie-s of amusemeut mentioned ; and it is cer- tainly one of the most pleasant t'lat have come under our o' servation ; but any simple, cheerful mode of releasing tlie mind a sliort time from responsibility and care, or freeing the young from studies or work, and allow- ing the exuberance of youthful spirits full play, is not only proper and harmless, but will go far toward securing a sound mind in a healthy body. If your daughters seek for nothing worse than a few games of croquet, at suitable times, we think you need give yourself no anxiety. A CHRISTMAS GOOSE. An individual under the very appropriate signature of " Some Goose," is anxious to learn what kind of geese we "had down in our countiy, " for he says, judging from a little incident mentioned by us in an article on " Procrastination, " a long time ago, "they must be a very hardy kind. Another person is greatly exercised be- cause we spoke of ' ' the stately old gander" as keeping watch and ward over his mate when on her nest, ' ' for he never before heard of geese sitting in winter, or that the head of the goose family ever guarded the nest. " It scarcely .seems a matter of sufficient im- portance to require a letter or an answer ; yet all questions in natural history are in- teresting, and should, as far as possible, re- ceive attention, we suppose. We have very little knowledge of the geese of the present time, but in New Eng- land, a half century liack, they may have ))een, like the children of that period, more hardy than the present generation — and in the times when winter and sleigliing often encroached far on to the spring, there was great need that l)oth should be so. In the "long ago" the incident narrated, though simple, was strictly true. Since tlien there have been great changes in the climate ; at least in those portions witli wliich we were familiar. New England no longer Ixjasts of snows tliat blocked up tiie roads so solidly that for weeks we could ride to school over paths high above the tops of the fences; and when the drifts banked up the iioiises, so tliat, by digging them away from the doors and windows, beautiful icy arches were made.wliich te our imagination fully equalled any at St. Petersburg ; and the brothers walking on a path over the windows, on a 1 ne with the socond storey, had ai fair oppor- tunity, which was never lost, to snowball the late sleepers in the morning. Witli those changes we do not know but the geese have now forgotten to lay in the winter time, but they certainly tlid not then forget— (we never heard of their bitting till ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 65 .t have iunple, a short freeing allow- its full 88, bv\t lind in ,eek for ;roquet, eed give )ropriate- xious to down in g from a m article 50. 'they cised be- i gander' ' his mate tore heard ; the head he nest." ticient im- a answer ; ■y are in- ssible, re- ore of the "New Eng- may have iod, more In — and in ning often there was In the il, though hon there iniate ; at hich we |no longer lie roads so to school ;he fences; ,he houses, from the Lrches were ly equalled brothers |ows, on a fair oppor- snowball know but Ihiy in the Id "not then sitting till spring). And in these days of progress, when women claim the ability to take care of themselves, unaided, and assert ec^ual strength and vigour — a full emancipation, a perfect independence of man — we do not know but the lower orders of creation, clear down to the goose, have waked up to the full consciousness of their equai rights — or evident superiority — and Indignantly refuse aid or protection from their mates. But it was not so in our girlhood days — the courtesy and protection volunteered were gratefully accepted, through every grade of creation, we imagine, and he was a " riif/it smart lad" who would risk a bite from the " stately eld gander, " or a blow from his strong wing, while he was watching over and protecting liis mate on her nest. And when the early spring sought to battle with the snow, which so stoutly refused to take its departure, and Madame (ioose then began to sit, her warm house, made soft and comfort- able with fresh straw, was moved to the east to secure tlie greatest warmth of the sun, and a shelter under the huge pyramids of wood which had been split and piled up in the winter to season for summer use. Then even a strong man would hesitate before needlessly daring tlue old gander's rage, by coming any closer to the goose-house, than his loi'dship thought decorous. We remem- ber some fierce fights in the season when winter kept possession far beyond its ap- pointed time, so that it was deemed advis- able to move the "coop,"' or goose-house, into the " feed-room" to secure warmth and shelter for the young birds just ready to break through the shell. Mistaking the in- tended kindness for an act of aggression, the spirited old fellow fought as valiantly as any true knight could do, to protect his com- panion from molestation and harm! But half a century has passed, and we can not possibly oblige the anxious intjuirers into the character and habits of this hardy speci- men of creation with even the one egg which we were requested to send. SYSTEM IN SMALL THINGS. The advantage of system or metliod in la- bour is shown as plaiidy in small things as in those which we are accustotned to consider of more importance. Indeed, this habit, once fixed in regard to little things, will cvTiieet, she'gives to )iim all the yftwth, the beauty, the strength, and intellect that God gave her. It may be but little, but it is all she lias to give. Who can do more ? And the luisband enthrones her — the ([ueen of his home. The crown may after many years become burdensome, the sceptre too heavy for hands gi'owing feeble through sickness, labour, and old age ; but ^v^th all tlie pains and pena,lfcies wliich come with the crown, what sovereign willingly lays down the burden and abdicates the throne ? This is the romance — one which we cling to and believe in, and always shall ; but we fear it is fading out of most minds, and may be classed by the rising generation, by-and- by, among the follies and eccentricities of " the olden times " which the young are so fond of criticising. And yet one can hardly feel surprised that it should be so. If some- thing cannot be found to lessen the heavy burden which fashion binds on our house- keepers, hotels and boarding-bouses will be the shelter of our families, and homes be as one of the myths of the past. The style of housekeeping of to-day is so elaborate when compared with that of fifty years ago, and unfortunately, the servants are so much less competent and less amenable to proper authority, that it is diffcult to see how our homes are to be preserved. VVe cannot wonder if the young daughters, who have watched their mothers fading under the increasing burden of housekeep- ing, should shrink from assuming tiie same risk ; and therefore our hotels and boarding- houses are filled with young married people who, in their earlier life, are losing all the joys of home. And th.at is not the worst danger threatened by such a course. In the mixed so(nety of. hotel or large boarding- house there is such publicity, so much to distract attention, so few ways of ministering to each other's comfort, that we cannot think young married people who board can be as closely and harmoniously united as when, in their own house, they exercise sovereign but united power. If our young people would be wise enough to begin their married life in a small house, or better still, on a single tioor — a "flat — how much more of true iiappiness they miglit experience ! With good heal'h, and only two to provide for in the beginning, no queen on her throne could be more iudepen- oent than a young housekeeper, even with every limited means. Such care and labour can only be a pleasure, while it insures good health, and prepares tJie wise by experience to perfv">nn such added uaree as coming yearv may bring, and with much more ease and comfort. But if young people will begin by assuming the cares which must come with a large house, and till it, as it is naturally filled, with daily guests, they very soon be- come disgusted with housekeeping and seek I'efuge from lib fatigues in a boarding- hou se. But what can we do for those who, having large families, must have large houses ; or being public property, seem compelled to keep open house, and be always prepared for any new and unexpected comer ? In such cases how long can health and strength hold out without the best of servants? And where shall we find them ? In our large cities, where the labours and duties are more wearing and exacting than in the country, we cannot but feel that some arrangement might be made which would largely secure the comforts, privileges, and privacy of home, and yet emancipate wives and mothers from the wear and tear of housekeeping. If a spacious hotel, with large laundry attached, were built on a "court," placed in charge of a thoroughly competent land- lord, who would employ only the best ser- vants, the washing and cooking could be provided for all the families in the "square." A waiter appointed for every family should take the orders for meals at stated hours, and at the specified times bring in the food under covers in baskets or hampers prepared to keep it hot, and see everything properly served ; remaining to attend the table and remove the dishes and fragments. In this way a family could have their table well served in their own house without tlie care of preparing their food ; no dishes to l)e purchased or broken, no cook, laun- dress, or waiter to manage — the most blessed release of all. Where tliere are young children and the mother in feeble healtli, one girl for nurse and seamstress would be very desiiable. All else that cme girl could not do, unless tlie house and family are very large, could be easily done by the mistress and daughters, if any, with no more labour or exercise than liealtli absolutely demands — not half as much as would be needed to oversee the kitchen and laundry work. Tliis is not chimerical. Wo have seen if; in successful operation in some of our cities. Something similar is very common in France ; and surely might be develoj)ed into a great blessing to our overburdened city housekeepers. By such an arrangement our homes could not only be secured, and wives and mothers have necessary leisure ^il W'\ 60 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. for social life and intellectual improvement, but oh 1 how many irritable, fretful words, forced from loving lips by much suffering and by labour far beyond the strength, would never be uttered I Lift the needless burdens which fashion and custom have laid upon the mistress of a house, and which these tyrants are yearly increasing, and we shall havu happier homes, and better and more Christian occupants. * EXCURSIONISTS AND LION- HUNTERS. "What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed sliakcn by tlie wind? ** But what went ye out for to see ? A man clothed in soft raiment? liehold those that wear soft raiment are in Icings' palaces." These are questions we have had occasion to ask many times. It aeeiiis wonderfully applicable to a certain class with whom we often come in contact, and with whose pecu- liarities we have no sympathy, for of all the absurd and incomprehensible things that are done by people of leisure, nothing so excites our surprise, and we must say contempt, as the rage for "lion-hunting" — excursion parties, organized for no purpose but to gratify idle curiosity, and hunt up "cele- brities" of every description, whether of church or state, of literary or artistic noto- riety. VVe can understand how one can find pleasure, fully compensating for the fatigue, in going with a party of friends on an excur- sion to some peculiarly beautiful scene, to a grand mountain, a singular cave, or magniti- cent cathedral, or simply to escape from the hot and dusty city and wautler for a few hours through green woods and fields, and beside the still waters. But to see people enduring tlie trouble and fatigue for no bet- ter purpose than to intrude for a few mui- utes on the private grounds of some dii^tin- guished pei'sou — to walk through the gardens — not to look for the choicest flowers and shrubbery — but, iliscarding all that there may be of beauty, to seek the path that will give the best opportunity to peer into win- dows or open doors — thereby catching, per- chance, a glimpse of the "lion" — ^then rush liack to oars or boatfi — whicli never wait for idlers— In'eathless, but satisfied with such a days work : all this we cannot understand, (irounds much more beautiful may be seen with far less trouble and expense, and with- out the consciousness, vvliich we hope all must feel, to a greater or lean degree, tiiat tliey have taken a liberty extremely distjiste- ful to those who have no power to repel the iutrusioE. ... _;. ^ _.,...... ^,.„ ., But what west they out for to see f Is the ground owned by a popular or distinguished man or woman more sacred than anv other spot of earth 7 Do the virtues or talents of the owner change the character of the soil T Have the fruits a finer flavour, the flowers a sweeter perfume, because paid for by men> tal labour? Is the grass greener because their feet have pressed the sod? Popular persons often are obliged to travel from one place to another. Why not track their foot- steps everywhere ? That would be far more sensible — and certainly better for these un- fortunates if they might only be allowed to enjoy freedom from "sightseers" when at home, during the few hours' leisure they need from the labours and cares of their life. Neither can we understand why these curi- ous people will push and jostle each other in public places in a manner that, if not blinded by their insatiable curiosity, they would, themselves, deem unpardonably rude, just to look at sonje illustrious person, or, it may be, to secure an introduction, and perhaps the honour of touching his hand. In the confusion and bewilderment of a public gath- ering, even if introduced, it is usually done in a hasty, inaudible manner, so that the name is not understood, and the individual wlio has taken such pains to be introduced will probably never be thought of again. Wiiat has the poor hero-hunter gained ? We are not, fortunately, a "star of the first magnitude," nor even a "lesser light," but are so situated that we have a realizing sense of the annoyances experienced by those in the front ranks, when so persistently pursued by. foolish enthusiasts. Eyery one has, it may be, a right to perpetrate any amount of foolishness, for ins own gratifica- tion, without being accountable to any one but (Tod and his own conscience, provided he does not trespass on the rights of others. But the trouble is, the nu)n^j?nt any one gives to the public words or works of value, or has done good to his fellow-men by the right use of God-given powers, and is accounted a public benefactor— that moment seals his doom. These harpies swoop down upon him ; all that he has at once becomes )nil)lic property — entirely at the mercy of wonder- seekers. But this is not all — these "insatial)les" will call upon « person of eminence, ))ro- fessedly on business, and wait at the house till the man of fame is at liberty ; but after the impoitant nothing for which tiiey profess to have come is dispatched, and they are dismissed, it strangely happens that the album has been rifled of certain pictures which coodd have been bought at the photo- grapher's for twenty-five cents, only it waa ii g t t b ALL AROUTTO THE HOUSE. 61 al>le8" pro- the ; l)Ut tliey they at the ictures piiuto- ,t waa BO much more interesting to steal — beg par- don, borrow— "-he pictures, right from the house where the original lived 1 Gold pens and pencils, little mementos cherishecl for the givers' sakes, if not valuaVjle for their own, if they chance to bear the charmed name vanish; — myteriously, some say. We never recognize any mystery about it, but feel assured that some relic-seeker who has doubtless told the little ones scores of times — "Tt ia a sin to steal a pin ; How much more a bigger thinfcT has been in the room — one who cannot un- derstand that to take that which belongs to a person of note is as sinful as if taken from one whose name never appeared in print. But this kind of trespassing is far more endurable than the unblushing audacity of excursionists and picnic parties going up and down seeking people of note. A gentleman of distinction had finely arranged and spa- cious grounds which he cheerfully kept open to any one who wished to enjoy the many choice flowers and shrubs. He only claimed that the house should be unmolested. Or- ders to the servants were peremptory that no one should be admitted to the house who came to view the grounds. Fora time he succeeded ; but a party on one occasion were overtaken by a sudden shower. A servant was seat to provide seats on the veranda, where they could be sheltered ; but when the doors were opened to give this in- vitation, those who had often gazed on the house and longed to enter, could not be re- strained ; and, notwithstanding all remon- strance, like the "plague of flies" in Pharaoh's palace, they swarmed over the house, prying into every nook and comer, through parlours, library, hall and cham- bers. With muddy shoes and wet garments they wandered, leaving nothing unexplored ; and why ? Simply because it was a popular man's house. The owner's kindness had often before been requited by the rudeness common to over-much curiosity, but this was the drop too much. Patience was no longer a virtue, and now these grounds are inclosed by high fences, and guarded from sight-seers by locked gates. ' Within a week three excursion parties have, like locust, swarmed tlirough the orange-grove where we now write, l)ecau8e in it is the residence of Mrs. Stowe. With great coolness, coming directly to the house, they ask — almost demand — an interview with that lady, as the boat would wait for them but a few moments. Being told she was absent, they scattered in various directions — some on the veranda, to gain a view of the parlour, others gazimg long into the dining-room, as though there must be some mystery there, or perhaps the person they sought. Two gentlemen (?) came to a bedroom on the end of the ver- anda, and deliberately opening the door at- tempted to enter. The occupant — a lady — instiintly closed it, turning the key. Some half-dozen ladies and gentlemen stopped be- fore the low window, staring into the room. The curtain was hastily dropped, as a shght hint that the intrusion was of- fensive ; so they passed to the second win- dow, persistently determined to have a full view. But that curtain being also lowered, the "sniflf" of vexation was quite audible. Evidently, they did not believe that the lady of the house was gone, and, imagining this her room, determined to have '• one good look." What mistakes these "patrons^' of talent do sometimes make ! Windows and doors being closed, away went the whole party to the orange grove. Ladies beat the limbs with their parasols to dislodge the fruit, thereby destroying many buds just ready to burst into bios om for next year's crop, without obtaining the orange. Gentlemen jumped and tried to shake the limbs. One was badly pierced by the thorns that guarded well their owner's Eroperty. Another, leaping to catch a ranch, fell heavily over the stake in the ' croquet-ground. Is it to be supposed that the inmates of the house who witnessed that fall were overwhelmed with pity for the gentleman's misfortune? When the boat's whistle called them to hasten, in passing by the house again, one stopped to purloin a relic — the first bud from a cyclamen, which had but just been received from the North, and was planted and watched with great cam. Another broke off a branch of ivy brought from Eng- land, while her friend said : *' Don't pick them so close to the house. These little children are watching us, and will tell." If not conscious of doing wrong, why need they care if the children did tell ? Now, what have tliey secured by such li- berties in a lady's garden ? Was there any inspiration in trampling over the new- ploughed ground ? Will the little flower, planted with so much tender care, when withered and destroyed, furnish the pilferer with one poetic thought? If they had suc- ceeded, when staring into that window, in catching a gUmpse of the "authoress," what would they have seen ? A little woman, whose quiet, eentlc manners give no token of her power. In that slightly bowed head IT ' m ALL AROUND THE HOUSE lU I' I with brown ourls, just ftilvering, would they have seen the mind ? Then what went they out for to fiee ? What have they gained by this "excursion ?" A slight gratification of a silly curiosity, a most unhealthy craving for "sight-seeing." What have they lost? We should think some self-respect. We know they forfeited the respect of those who, looking ou, witnessed their folly. If a few more of these Arab hordes should swarm about the place, high walls and locked gates, to secure rest and quiet and pro- tect private property, must be inevitable. A gentleman m St. Augustine planted two choice trees brought from abroad. A party of "tourists " entered his grounds a few weeks since, and, having made their inspec- tion, on leaving, two "gentlemen" cut down these choice little trees and trimmed them up for canes I The owner, seeintj this out- rage, hastened to them and demanded the little spoiled trees. He has tied them near the entrance, and placed an inscription on them teWing how they weie destroyed, and thinks for the future, his grounds shall never more be opened to any but personal friends. One result of such marauding parties will be that sensible, well-behaved people will be deprived of that which they know how to value and profit from, through the wrong- doing of a class who have no more apprecia- tion of the beautiful m Nature, than just un- derstanding of the delicacy and refinement of true genius. And there la another misery which these persecuted people are com- pelled to suffer. Not only are their grounds and houses ransacked and pillaged, and their privacy invaded by insatiable sight-seers, bnt when these parties are seen approaching, their victims quake with fear, well knowing, tliat if only a half-dozen are making this raid, there will surely be a re- porter among them. That is inevitable ; and in a week all over the land will tly some strangely-garbled statement of wliat was seen. Heaven defend the poor victim if they succeed in effecting an entrance, and hunt their prey into a corner — for reporters' eyes see double (some of them do certainly)— or, by some optical delusion, conjure up such a picture that the nearest friends will never be able to recognize it ! Traits of character, peculiarities (for of course a distinguished fierson must be peculiar and eccentric), and ittle incidents, are stated tliat would be per- fectly harmless if not labelled, for no one who knew them would be able to guess who or what was meant; but these statements are sent fly- ing all abroad, most distinctly marked, name and dates all given. Wliat can these help- less, long-suffering martyrs do? Be patient? Try it ? and tell us how long your patience holds out under the same inflection. Were w« in their place our daily praver would be : "Send poverty or sickness, tut from exousion parties, prying curiosity, 'lion- hunters, ' and reporters, good Lord, deliver us !" If the young mothers and housekeepers will lay this to heart, and teach their chil- dren and all belonging to them how much better it is te stay at home quietly, and try to be like the gi-eat and good, instead of running after their shadow, or annoying or hunting them in their own homes, the lesson will be more valuable than ten thousand re- ceipt books or treatises on household labour. •'•.; »i SHOPPING. Great is the mystery of fashion ! But there is yet another mystery which we cannot comprehend. The excitement, the absorbing interest there is in " shopping," especially in a foreign country, is a matter of great and increasing surprise. Ladies leave their Tiomes with trunks almost bursting with the richest apparel which our New York stores can furnish. When they land on a shore where everything is new and strange, and more of interest to be seen than they have time, with the utmost diligence, to examine, one would imagine shopping would be the last thing to be thought of. It is the last ; but, unfortunarely, the first also ; for though not even shopping can tempt many ladies from their beds to witness the gorgeous sun- rise of a tropical climate, yet as soon as the late breakfast is despatched — wliat next? Why, shopping, of course. And for what? To "price" good. The great desire of their hearts is to endeavour by a little smattering of French, German, or Spanish, to "beat down" the merchant's prices ; while he with still more unintelligible English, assures them, witii the most lavisli politeness, that to oblige the illustrious Aniorican ladies he is ready to impoverish himself by the fabu- lously low prices at which he offers his wares. But our ladies have been warned never to accept the first price named in foreign lands. They are tol:l that a little coy- ness, combined with Yankee "cuteness," will have a wonderful elFoct in lowering tlie original sum. It may be so ; but if we mistake not, we have seen some curiously sly glances pass from one clerk to another behind the counter, as if well satisfied with their part of the transaction, when ladies — forgetting the notice over the door, " I'liig- lish spoken here," — have exultantly ex- ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. m ;hough ladiea 0U8 sun- as the next? what ? of their attering beat 16 with assures '., that ies he fabu- :'ers his never foreign e coy- teness, " owering ut if we uriously another (l with hidics — • I'- -y- itly ex- pressed their delight in having fought for and obtained a most wonderfully cheap bargain. We have seen articles purchased which were first offered for one price, then reduced two or three times, and at last bought, taken to the hotel, and triumphantly exhibited as groat bargains, when w«! knew tlie same material, e(|ually good, could have lieeu purchased at homo for less price, and no fear of the cuatom-liouse. Surely the exertion of shopping, and making " great bargains," in foreign coau- trius, ia not always tempered witli wisdom ; and perliaps even at home it is not any more judiciously executed. There \n a marvellous infatuation about it, in all places, for some people, wliicli to us is very surprising. It can only be accounted for by the supposition that ladies of weal h and leisure — finding time hani' heavy on tlieir hands, and many iiours winch no books or home attractions can eiial)le them to pass contentedly — seek to amuse thomsulves and kill time by making useless purchases, of whicli they will tire almost before these have been exhibited and talked over. Now we cannot understand what pleasure there can be in the fatiguing business of shopping, only so far as it is gratifying to accomplish any necessary labour successfully.. To hang about a counter, examining things one has no intention of buying — jostled, crowded, and made uncomfortable by the ever-surging throng — is fatiguing in the extreme, and exceedingly bewildering unless a list of what is needed has been carefully prepared before entering the store. Accord- ing to our mode of looking at the work, this should alwiiys be done, even in home shop- ping, but is much more desirable when abroad. Decide -what you must have ; and fix, as near as possible, the quality and price. This settled, begin your researches — no need of buying in haste and repenting at leisure. If the purchase to be made is of any great importance, never decide at first sight. Take a pattern of the goods with you, after having spent all necessary time in the examination. When you return to youirTiotel, compare the sample with something similar which you have brought from home — and the price also — and in the quiet of your room you will decide far more wisely than will be possible in the confusion of tongues which distracts you in all stores ; especially when partially tongue-tied yourself by inability to speak the language. By this mode of procedure you will have a better opportunity to complete your purchase the next time you enter the stores, having clearly arranged in your own mind just what yon intend to buy, and tho price you are willing to pay, Notwitlistaniling the term "fixed price," often seen in large letters in many stores, it is true that the merchant d(jes often make many changes in the sum demanded — per- hiips com))elled to do so by the determination on the part of his customers to "beat him down," and never sutisfietl until tliat con- summation, so devoutly wished for, has been achieved. But, although fully a^Vare that it may not be always safe to accept the first price name*', it must be acknowledged that higgling and cliafleiiiii' in making a bargain is not in good taste. It would greatly lower our self-respect, and we will never stoop to it. To say, in a (juiet, lady-like manner, "The price is higher than I am prepared to give," is usually quite sufficient. Most siiopkecpers are quick to under-stand the characters of their customers, and very readily jierceive if you know your own miiuf. If they have the least intention of reducing the sum asked, tliey will, without any more words on your part, give you their lowest terms — whicli you can accept or look far- ther ; anything rather than stoop to expos- tulations or persuasions with a stranger. If satisfied tliat the article is desirable, and of a fail price, why discuss the matter further? Why wish to expect the merchant to sell his goods at a loss to himself, just for the honour of dealing with you ? He must be destitute of common-sense to offer to do so, and if any such pretence is made — "take care; he ia fooling you." Do not expose your own weakness and credulity by giving him an opportunity to lure you into a purchase through any such pretensions. ■ SEWING-MACHINES. " What is the best sewing-machine?" If this inquiry had been made fifteen or twenty years ago the reply wouM unquestionably have been "Wheeler & Wilson," for we did not then suppose it possible that any invention, would at all compare with it. A few years after we received a "Grover & Baker." The little troubles that some- times perplexed us in using "Wheeler & Wilson " had always seemed insignificant when compared with the time lost by hand- sewing, and we had no thoughts of com- plaining. But after using "Grover & Baker's" we forgot our first love. The machine was less complicated, the work so strong, the stitch so perfect, no ripping save by coaxing, and we could do more and better work, we thought, and with less fatigue than on our first machine. 64 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. We were perfectly contented. Work rolled off with marvellous rapidity, and, truth to tell, being al>le to accomplish so much in so short a time, we did indulge in a few more tucks and extra nirtles, because it took 80 little time, comparatively, to make the children's clothes very tasteful. That was folly. It must be confessed that there was much noise and little talking when either of these machines was in energetic operation. Just at the height of our dreams of perfec- tion, " Willcox & Gibbs" came to us to disturb our repose and oontentmenb. The "Noiseless Machine 1 " The idea of a quiet house and a little real enjoyment while at our machine, was indeed to be accepted with a grateful heart. Noiseless, beautiful stitches, the perfection of " hemming," "felling," "tucliing," and " quilting, " were at our command — all, surely, that the he^rt of a good housewife could desire in a machine. Skill and invention can surely no farther go. To be sure the work would Bometimes rip, and, whenever started, the ripping was very effectually accomplished ; but that, we soon learned, was our it;norance, and with riper knowledge the trouble ceased. Always ready to accord all praise to other machines, yet we turned to the "Wilcox & Gibbs " with infinite content. Lately the new "Automatic Attachment" has appa- rently removed all causes of complaint' in fastening the thread, although the mechan- ism Id not quite as pimple, but with this attachment it is worked with even less noise than before. But now comes "Beckwith'a" machine, to be oper^ited by hand or by foot, at will. That will be a relief. How often have we risen, after some hours steady work at the machine, with aching back and almost crippled with numbness, and pain in the feet and ankles 1 To have a machme on which one can change, nsing foot or hand with equal facility, and find the work equally good, would indeed be a blessing. We are not yet familiar with the " Beckwith," but are pleased with it as far as our knowledge extends, because we find a very perfect, even stitch, and that the machine is capable of doing all kinds of work well — both plain and ornamental — but chiefly because we see that operators may be relieved, when working it by hand, from the great strain on the hips and back, which constant use of the foot has shown to be injurious. Next in our experience comes the "Domestic," of which we only know enough to be satisfied with the variety of work which can be accomplished on it, and only object to it as being so noisy. We have seen no work that has pleased ns better. It ii more complicated than any other machine that we are ac(|uaiiited with, but when it becomes familiar through practice, the secu- rity and ease with which the work can be fastened, the self-regulating tension, requir- ing no care on the part of the operator, and other peculiar excellences, cannot, but Cv)m- pensate for any little annoyance from the noise, and any unusual intricacy in the machinery. BotiJillfcre are now before the public so malfl8!ex(!ellent sewing-machines, that it ii quite dillicult to give advice in selecting one. Then the improvements in all sewing- machines are so great — each year developing something new — that one can hardly recognize an old friend with these valuable improvements or added con- veniences. So great have been the changes in some that we supposed had reached per- fection, that it will not be strange if our present favourites should, in a few years, be thought crude and clumsy compared with the wonderful developments that are in store for our children and grandchildren. How little did our housekeepers of fifty years ago dream, when spinning and weaving at home, that all that hard work would be done by machiuer/ in a few years ! And to fancy it possible that their wearisome, end- less labour with the needle would ever be performed by a machine, was quite beyond their powers of imagination. There are so many really excellent sewing- machines now in the market, that we think one can hardly go astray in making a pur- chase. If the "automatic attachment on Wilcox Sc Gibbs' is found to perform all it promises, we must say that, so far, we have seen nothing better, and, for the sake of its quiet, noiseless movement, it will always be a favourite. The sewing-machine is doubtless a great help to the weary, a great blessing to the heavily-laden mother and housekeeper — or it should be ; but all have need of caution, lest they make this good gift a curse. Let us look back to the tmie when sewing- machines were unknown, and compare the amount of clotlll) time, and stitches neces- sary to make the most elaborately fashion- able dress then with that which is piled on the ordinary dress of the present period. Look at the ruffles, puffs, flounces, etc., that mothers put on even a little girl's dress, to say nothing of the amount required on their own. Think of putting one hundred yards of ruffling on one dress 1 And any lady know? that is but a small estimate of the number required for some sty- lish dresses. If there were no way to have ATX AROUND THE HOUSE. 65 It 11 nachine when it IC BOOU- can bo reqnir- tor, and lb cv)in- ;'oui the in tha iblic BO at it is ;ing one. sewing- veloping hardly I these ed con- changes jhed per- ;e if our years, be red with t are in Idien. I of fifty I weaving ivould be And to ome, end- ever be B beyond it inatle but by hand, how few dresBei would be »o elaborately trimmed ? Knowing how rapidly all kinds of sewing can l>e done with thumachinejs then^iotdan- gcr tiiat ladies will be beguiled into a great wa»t« of time, money, and material by the posBeswion of that which wa* designed to give them rest and time to use for their own improvement and for the welfare of others ? Aside from the temptation to extravagant expendittire o£ material, time, and strength — if not very careful, there is danger of many becoming devotees of ffishion, who, but for the ease and rapidity witli which the work is (lone by these wonderful machines, would have made better mothers and happier homes. The wise will see this danper and reso- hitely turn from it. We can hmdly under- stand how eensible women can be so beguiled hy fashion. In their own hearts they must acknowledge that the excessive use of trim- ming now in style is not in good taste — that Fashion fools her votaries by enforcing styles that all can s*e are ludicrously extravagant. If common-sense ever becomes the miHtress and fashion the servant, as she should be, many of our modem improvements and use- ful machines will be more truly appreciated tlian they can be now, when compelled to aid the foolish and extravagant, instead of ministerini{ to the comfort of the weary and overworked. HOUSE-CLEANING. It is difficult to realize, after so long a term of excessive heat, that autumn will soon call back our wandering housekeepers, and they doubtless, ned no reminder that their first duties on retiirning home will be to put their houses in order for the coming winter. Those who have not l)een so»fortanate as to secure a short respite from home duties have prob- al)ly already begun their house-cleaning — one of the prominent parts of household labour that custom has needlessly made a dreaded and most formidable undertaking. We cannot think it necessary that to effect a satisfactory purification of the house, the whole of the interior should be dismantled and thrown into wild confusion, and all the inmates be made cross and uncomfortable, in order that the mistress may have the satis- faction of knowing that twice a year, at least, her domains are in order and thor- roughly clean. By a little care, good man- agement, and forethought, except in a few particulars, a house may be kept in good con- dition the year round, and a large portion of these home revolutions and disturbances, so dangerous to the comfort and happiness of the majority of the household, be avoided. Yet wit4i the iKist management, there is much extra work to be done every fall and npring. In the fall the dust, that is exceeecome more feeble and inactive each night, and v;'iU lie in large masses on the ceiling or in dark coraers, and, when thus brushed down, are too stiff an cleaning is commenced. Preserving, pickling, and all kinds of work that tends to leave stains or dirt about, more than is to be expected in ordinary labour, should be finished and securely put away be- fore the more labourious occupation of clean- ing the house is commenced ; but the closet in which pickles, preserves, etc., are to be stored, must be well cleaned before they are put in. This done, the house is at the mercy of scrub-brush and brooms. * AUTUMN LEAVES. _ • We take great pleasure in collecting onr rich-coloured leaves every fall, although we are by no means an expert in preserving them, But by observation and inquiry it is easy to glean sufficient knowledge to find much enjoyment in the" work. Added to / p f 66 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. this, it is pleasant to try experiments on leaves am] vines, and the many modes of pressing ttieni. 'J'he little we know on the subject we are happy to lay before onr readers. We began, some four or five years since, by simply laying single leaves — selecting the most perfectly coloured — between two or three thicknesses of soft paper, then another layer, and so on, each day, as we found fine specimens, laying large, heavy books on top. We changed the leaves into dry papers about every other day, until tliey were well dried, and found them smooth, with pretty good colour, but very easily broken, and thougli, when carefully arranged, quite ornamental, not at all durable. Another year we pressed our leaves in sprays, using not only maples but alders, oak. the linden — one kind of which turns a clear lemon golour and is soft and smooth, the other russet and rough, but both very desirable. The sumach also keeps colour well, and, if not taken too late in the season, may be preserved in sprays without losing the leaves. This time we varnished the leaves when nearly dry, and were greatly pleased with the colour tliey retained, but did not like the unnatural glossiness. When varnished ihey are as brittle as glass, but, if placed above reach, last some time; and, if fastened near the ceiling or over the tops of picture-frames, the unpleasant lustre arising from varnish is not apparent. Some will be removed this fall from the walls, that were prepared three years jigo, and are still in good colour. The next experiment was with boiled lin- seed — a disagreeable piece of work — but when finished there was no perceptible dif- ference between the looks of the leaves that were oiled and those which were varnished, and both were liable to the same objection — unnatural lustre and great brittleness. This time we pressed not only sprays of three or four leaves, but little branches a foot and a half and some two feet in length, and found no difficulty in doing so. Perhaps the leaves were not quite as smooth where the stem was the largest, as the pressure could not reach them as effectually ; but unless close by, in the liand, it was noticeable. Of late we have tried waxing the leaves, when freshly gatliered and when half dried, and are greatly pleased with tiio, result. Those half dried do not look as well or keep the colour as perfectly as tiiose waxed when first gathered. Common yellow wax is pre- feral)le to the white. Lay several thi -knesses of .tliick, firm wrapping-paper ou the ironing-table. Folil up paper, or old cloth, into a pad on which to put a cake of yellow wax. Lay the leaves smooth, and if a spray or branch, pick ofi those leaves uhich overlap on the branch and hide a good part of the leaf ; pass a warm flat-iron over the wax quickly and then ovei the leaf or spray, on the up])er side fiist ; then turn over and do the same with the under side, and remove to the pa]ier in wliich it is to be pressed. Wlien the sheet is full, cover with two or three thickiiesses of paper — proceed the same way with m*^ "t leaves till all are waxed. This done, put all under an even but lieavy pressure, and change them to dry papers every two or three days till the leaves are perfectly cured. We find the leaves th.at have been thus treated keep in good colour, are as soft and nearly as flexible as if fresh from the tree. But this year, although leaves on the moun- tains and in high latitudes have turned very beautifully, they do not appear to have the firm textuie and strength usually found in autumn leaves, and do not keep colour under any process as formerly. We hear it attri- buted to the intense heat of the summer, which seems to have burned all strength and vitality out of the leaves, as well as out of mankind generally. This looks like a very natural explanation. In pressing leaves it is a good plan to get a smootli, flat board, a little larger than the papers in which they are to be laid. Then put the papers smooth on this, and place the leaves in order as fast as ready. Cover with more papers ; add more leaves, till all are placed. Then put another board of the same size on top, and on that pile large, heavy books, making an equal pressure all over ; or instead of the books, take off the marble top from a table or stand and put that on top. This gives the most even pressure, and is sufficiently heavy. • We have been told that after leaves have been pressed a day or two, if they are dipped into a weak solution of sulphuric acid, sliaken free from drops, and again put in press, it will restore the colour jierfectly. \Vhen well dried from the wash they can then be waxed. W^e have never tried this. When leaves have been cured tliey can be made very ornamenal V)y being mingled with any kind of ferns. Tlie Hartford creeping fern is very beautiful to use in wreath and festoons over doors, pictures or around window and door cases. By linking "the vines together with a spray of rich leaves the efl'ect is ver^ pretty. Crosses, croMus, circles, or any fanciful shape may be cut out of paper, and leaves and ferns of all sorts sewed on. Or take very fine thread wire and wind bright leaves and small \ ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 67 n which e leaves pick ofl inch and a warm len ovei \e first ; ^ith the in which ; is full, of paper eaves till mder an J them to s till the )een thua : soft and the tree. ;he moun- rned very •have the found in our under a,r it attri* summer, ■eiigth and 1 as out of ke a very lan to get a • than the id. Then i place the ver with till all are the same ge, heavy over ; or marble top lat on top. le, and is eaves have are dipped uric acid, ain put in perfectly. y can then tins. \ey can be ngled with creeping vreath and tnres or es. By h a spray n> pretty, ciful shape >8 and ferns very tiuo 8 audi small h d ferns, together with the creeping fern, on to the wire with "reel wire," such as is used in preparing wax flowers, or the wire uaed for rtowera by milliners, which comes wound with silk. In this way very tasteful vines or wreaths can be arranged around windows or pictures, brackets or lambrequins. White curtains may be tastefully looped up or fes- tooned in the centre by these vines, or a bunch or spray of richly-coloured leaves. No prettier decorations can be found than our autumn leaves may furnish in ingenious and skilful hands. SELF-DEPRECIATION. "Well, I declare ! I will never venture to ask Mrs. D. to dine or sup in my house again — never!" "Why not? We always supposed you and Mrs. D. the best of friends. "And so we are, to be sure. It is cer- tainly from no lack of the most sincere af- fection that I made^that remark — " " Which, of course, you did not mean ?'' " No, I suppose not. I spoke carelessly, I acknowledge ;but when I visit there, every- tliing is so nice, so enticing, that, for very shame, I think I can never invite her to sit at my poor table again. I don't see why it should be so. I am sure she cannot try more earnestly than I do to provide the best of €verytliing, and have the whole arrangement of the table attractive. Unfortunately for my credit, it cannot be charged to the dif- fei'ence in our servants, for, during my short ex])erience in housekeeping, I have been favoured with better servants than my friend has had ; at least, I am sure I should not ex- pect to have an eatable thing in my house with such help as I know Mrs. I), has often been compelled to endure, but, alas ! I never Eucroed, and she never fails. Slie has the 'knack' of doing everything well; I have not. She is a most excellent cook, and I a very poor one, I think — but why are you laughing, when I feel so desperately dis- heartened ?" "To see 1k)w skilful you are in self-tor- ture. Your lamentations remind us of a httle incident that at the time alfbrded us nuirh amusement, and may be of some ser- viie t(i you, if only to dispel, for a few mo- I meats, the olouds from your face, "A voung clergyman, wiiile on a visit to his hrotlier, also a clergyman, agreed to lineaeli for him in tlie evening. Neither had heeu long in the ministry, and they had inevcr heard each other preacli. The pastor |inv,i( j|,i,l in the morning, and on returning IfiMiii chuivh his brother said to his wife, I" Kate, 1 cannot preach this evening. While listening to my brother I felt that I had mis- taken my calling. I ought never to preach anywhere. I cannot preach here to-night. " "His wife tried to cheer and comfort him, but all through the afternoon he was much depressed ; end, grieving over her husband's distress, she made known the cause to her , sister. Rising above this despondency, how- ever, in the evening he delivered a most ex- cellent discourse — all the better, doubtless, for his sojourn in 'the valley of humiliation,' during the afternoon. But on the way home, after the evening service was ended, the host, who had listened, in his turn, to his brother, who was evidently suffering from a severe attack of ministerial blues — and it takes a young clergyman to have the genuine article. At last, unable to remain silent longer, he said to his wife, ' Mary, I think I must give up preaching altogetlier, and go off somewhere into the backwoods out of sight, and become a farmer. After liearing my brother preach this evening, I don't think I can open my mouth again as a teacher. ' " Can you wonder that his wife, who had heard the other side, responded to her hus- band's Jeremiad with a merry laugh instead of the sympathy he had a right to expect? Even a woman with her proverbial reticence, could not be expected to enjoy so rich a treat alone. She repeated the story at the supper-table, and for that time, at least, banished the blues from both parties." "Very amusing, doubtless, if I was in the proper mood to enjoy it ; but I cannot see how it is applicable to my case. " "You cannot? We will tell you, then. We called at Mrs. D's some weeks since — not long after she last dined at your table — and while with her we listened to her com- pliments, for your excellent table, almost wojd for word, like those you have so rue- fully uttered. She was sure she would never dare to ask you to her house to take a meal again— never! Ev^erything was so good, so perfect, and your table was so elegantly arranged, everything in such good taste ; and liers — oh ! so poor always, when compared witli yours ! " "Is it possible?" " Yes, every word true ; and we must ba allowed to say we think you both dear, good silly W(mien. We will tell you why, if you will be reasonable, and look at the matter honestly. Your own heart tells you tliat you do 'set a good table,' as eood as — if not a little better tlian — most people. By a good table, we refer only to liome and informal entertaimnents — witli those stylish affairs, ordered from fasliionable restaurants, all for show, over which you exercise no authority. 68 ALL GROUND THE HOUSE. and have no responsibility till the bills are sent in, we have nothing to do. We mean the genuine, social, friendly repast, which skilful hands present as friendship's offer- ing. " "But you surely do not think that I was not sincere in what I said ? " " No. Be at ease. We are very sure that you spoke just as you really felt at the time, and so did Mrs. D. Many causes combine to produce that state of mind. Nothing ever looks as well, or tastes as pleasantly, over which we have spent time and thought BufJieient to cause fatigue. At a friend's you pass to the table, not having the least idea of wliat you may find there ; you have not thought about it, planned for it, and laboured over it for hours, until the sight wearies you, but all has the great charm of novelty. " Then, perhaps, a little unconscious pride — affecticftiate pride — mingles with all your fdans to entertain your friends. If it arose rom any spirit of rivalry, the consciousness of your own ability in such matters would never permit you to undervalue yourself when compared with another. But, through the love you bear your friend, you are led to think nothing too good, no effort too great, to express your affection, or to do her honour ; and she, in her turn, recipro- cates the feeling. Through your affection you magnify the beauty and excellency of all she does to entertain you, and depreciate your own efforts ; and she, likewise, does the same. " Then again, do you not realize that, if de^^irous of preparing an unu^aally fine entertainment, this very anxifcy leads you to see fill that you acconiplis'. ' as through a glass darkly ;' and if obliged, as is often th^ case, to perform most of the labour with your own hands, you become fatigued and incap- able of judging of your own work sensibly ; and tlie weariness brings, also, sometiiiiig very like disgust for it all ? " Now, these things ought not iO to be. We see ;ind hear a great deal of this, and are Borry for it, because it destroys much of the pleasure which should come from friendly intercourse. Real friends are supposed to meet together from higher motives than to be pampered with the choicest and most ap- petizing dainties. Good food, neatly and sk IfuUy prepared and arranged, is not to be despised ; but it is to be hoped friends do not come to our tables having that for their chief oV)ject. " It is irksome to provide for those who make you feel that they will go away to cavil and to criticise. There is little pleas- ure to be gleaned from such visits, and muoh discomfort jvnd heart-burning spring Iroiii them. But Avlien sure of tlie kindness ami the integrity of your guests, it is the most foolish of all self-torture to allow yourself to depreoiiite your own efforts and magnify your friends'. Why think about it at all, tu draw comparisons ? Do the best that your tiriie, streugtli, and purse wil) allow, and ru.st content. By being over-anxious about th;it which, though worth doing well, is not ui paramount importance, ywi not only deprive yourself of nuich pleasure, but by-and-liy make your friends uncomfortable. Appre- ciate and enjoy to the fullest extent the excellence of the beauties your friend sets Vie- fure you ; but do not neutralize the pleasuie you should receive by mentally comparing her entertainment with that which you may be able to provide in return." WHO IS TO BLAME t .. Thosa who are still held in bondage through ' ' olden times " proprieties are often startled by the topics which young people of the present day feel at perfect liberty to dipi- cuss freely among themselves, or join with their elders, who should set a better example, in expressing their settled opinion about the whole matter. . We are surprised and pained when wa hear these things-^- partly because the topics are of a nature that one would gladly believe a young, fresh., pure-hearted girl would naturally slirink from listening to, much kss talking about, even to her closest friends— certainly not in general society — and paitiy because cf the levity with which sucii re- marks are made, and the boldness with which their youthful judgments are pronounced. We are led into this train of thought from repeatedly hearing, of late, young ladies ami gentlemen earnestly expressing their o|)iii- ions on the last tt)pic one can imagine yoiiiii,' people would care to discuss — divorce. We were more particvdarly pained because, in two instances, after liearing of the marri.iu'e of a friend, they found it so easy and natural to glide into an argument ^n tlie rea- sons which siiould secure divorce in general, and the facility with which the marriaL'e bond could be sundered. It struck us as a very serious evil that young people W' re learning to look upon the marrietl vow as so light a matter. Is it necessary to go before a justice, or | take an oath after the exiict fuimula of jipli- cial cour s, before a couple are considereil responsible for solemn promises, whieli. if I broken after this oath, wmi brand tliem with the shame and sin| of perjury ? To say iu court, or be .■Tf: ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 6d imiigine youn.i; fore a justice, " I solemnly swear before God and these witnesses, " is an act so solemn that tlie lip trembles and the chek grows j.ale with awe while these words are being gpokeu; and if they have any honour, any fear of sin, what could tempt them to break that oath, or violate the promise it seals '! Is iiiit an oath administered by a clergyman, and before witnesses, as irrevocable aa if tilun in court? What is an oath? A solenm affirmation or declaration made with an appeal to God fiir the truth of what is affirmed. The ap- peal to God in an oath implies that the per- son imprecates His vengeance and renounces His favour if the declaration is false ; or, if tlie declaration is in the form of a promise, tlie person invokes the vengeance f>f God if he fails to fulfil it. A large company assembler. At the ap- pointed time the door opens, and as the guests divide on either side, the room — that Lilt a moment before was a perfect Babel witli laugh and talk and sprightly repartee —IS in an instant as silent as tlie tomb. The hride and groom, with attendants, pass in ami take their appropriate places. Thi- pale lii.le and earnest groom apparently recog- nize the solemnity of the act they are about to perform, and the grave and tearful faces arounil bear witness to the importance of the oe-i asion. The clergyman steps forward, aud hi^'oice ascends in earnest prayer, imploring God to witness the vows about to be made, and bless ami prosper those who make them, accoi'd- ing as they remain true to these vows. Then, as (lod'a ambassador, be calls upon each (severally, *'inth' i-esence of God and these witnesses," solemnly to promise, "forsak- ing all others, to love, honour, and cherish, " and for ^'better or for worne" to remain true and loving husband and wife " till God shall sejiarate them by" — what? Incompatibility of disposition? No. Insufficient support? No. Intemperance? No. Unkindness? No. Tiie promise is for "better or for wortte" until Goil shall separate them — by death. Now are our young people to be inflnenced to believe that this ceremony and the vows of marriage are all a farce ? Did that young Couple take these vows with perfect fcnow- k'lige of their full import? Do they realize that now they have " an oath in heaven, " wliich God has witnessed, and by which, if broken, they call down upon themselves "His vengeance and renounce His favour ?" And how are the rising generation learning to understand these vows ? Look at the answer in the sad occurrences ■of every-day life. For a few weeks or months —it may be years — their lives glide on, ap- parently peaceful and serene ; but after a time, aa with thunder in a clear sky, we are startled with a trial for divorce ! Why? In- compatibility of temper — a growing want of sympathy ; or children are given, and those who should have riveted the solemn promise past all breaking are the cause of the disgrace and sin. One parent is too strict, the other too indulgent — and divided counsels in family government estrange the hearts that once beat in unison, and this " root of bitteraess" springs up into vigorous growth, and soon bears fearful fruit. Or the wife was reared in affluence. Fool- ish parents allowed no care or disagreeable duty to annoy her. She knew — her parents knew — that the lover just entering upon his life-work was not rich, but willing hands and a brave heart gave promise of success. Time only was needed, with his young wife's , loving co-operation, to enable him to place her in circumstances equal to those from which he took her. From the first she understood she would 1)6 obhged to join hands with him in his efforts to work his way up to competency. She knew he could not give her many of the luxurieR that she might freely claim when with her parents. Rich dresses, large par- ties, and luxurioxis carriages must for a time be dispensed with. All this she knew and accepted when " before God and these wit- nesses " she made those solemn vows. But her words were lightly spoken ; and to her marriage was but a new pleasure, a novelty, a plaything of which she soon tired, antf heart-burnings and repinings were the re suit. She goes on a visit to her parents. The ease and luxury of her childhood's home aeem now more precious to her than the true and loving husband in the less stylish estab- lishment ; and, forgetting that her promise was " to love, honour, and cherish till death do us part, " she refuses to return, and her parents, slighting her Saviour's command, " What God has joined together let not maa put asunder, " uphold her in her sin, and sanction her appeal for divorce. What is the dift'erence between a false oath "lawfully administered " and a broken marriage vow ? Whatever dissimilarity an earthly tribunal may decide there is in the guilt, we think the Recording Angel will write down one as much perjury as the other. It is fearfub to see how easily of late, divorces can be obtained, and for how slight a cause they are often applied for — as often by one one party as the other. It would seem that marriage was being looked upna as the gratification of a passing fancy merely, 70 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. I which could be cast off as readily as an un- satisfactory garment. There is a terrible sin to be answered for somewhere. Those who have made legal divorce so easy will be held accountable, we think ; but fear that parents are most responsible for this grownig evil. If, both by precept and example, their children are taught to see the beauty and holiness of the marriage relation, we cannot think they would enter into "these bonds "so thought- lessly, or cast them aside so lightly. We believe there is but one cause for divorce — injidelity — that, God's law and teaching sanc- tion. BEFORE AND AFTER MARRIAGE. When a young man begins to feel especi- ally drawn toward a maiden — and by more intimate acquaintance this interest ripens into aflPection — all the politeness and respect^ he can command will be manifested in her presence. The best traits of his character are called out to entertain and honour her ; to draw closer the bond of union he desires to see established. Botli, if the interest is mutual — perhaps with no intention or desire of making a false impression — are in tliat peculiar state of mind which shows them to the best advantage. Particularly is this true as regards tJie lover. To gratify the slightett wish of his chosen, no effort is felt to be wearisome; no labour a burden. All self- denial for his lady-love is accounted as a joy and honour. His very life seems too small an offering. But how is it when the prize is secured, and the twain are made one? Are those graceful courtesies, sweet anmnities, kind and watchful attentions through which the coveted prize was led to an exalted estimate of the lover's ciiaracter, to be continued by the husband — growing brighter and holier as the yeai's roll on ? Will the respectlul at- tention and honour which a true gentleman yields to womai; Je more scrupulously ac- corded — be held moresacred — when bestow ed on the wife? "Then will sweet peace wreathe the chain round them forever ; and the love which budded in youth, and grew deeper and l>roader with the after years, will be matured and perfected in old age, holding them as one till, separated by death, they meet again in that uetter world where love is the light thereof. But if marriage brings indifference, or a feelincr of ownership which is supposed to exonerate a husl)and from all attention to his wife, to release him from the common civili- ties, which he dare not refuse to other \yomen, then there is little hope of true hap pinesa in that household. The first year of married life is, doubtless, tlie most critical. No young people ever become fully ac- quainted with each other during the period of courtship, or engagement. There is a glamour over them that hides any disagree- able or inharmonious peculiarity — and everj one has some — that will not show well ia a strong light. We daily 8*e young people accept the mu- tual duties of the married state profoundly ignorant of the life upon which they had so thoughtlesly entered. The husband may un- derstand what is right and honourable among men, but without the- first idea — especially if he has not been brought up with sisters— of what respect and attention a wife has a right to expect, and he is bound to give, as an -honourable ^'entleman. We claim for wives a degree of respect and attention beyond what a true gentleman gives any other lady, but we also claim that wives should be governed by the same rule. Both should be affable, courteous, and kind to all with whom they associate, but for each other there should be a deeper respect and deference than is ever seen in their inter- course with others, however worthy; yet in far too many cases politeness and good breeding are folded .away with the wedding finery. But until the children that are growing up around us are taught by their parents' example the sacredness of the obli- gations they'assume whose hands are joined in wedlock, the horribly disgusting records' of cruelty and crime that fill our daily papt u will continue, and happy homes be "like an- gels' visits few and far between." Aside fr(im the present miseiy and strife, what will be the condition of society, or of | our country, when the ciiildren of these un- hapi>y marriages ooine to the front and take I their places as rulers of our country aiid| fiUihioners of society? If tlie mother is vain, foolish or irritable, and self-willed, in noi wise seeking to make home happy, never I yieliling to her husband's judgment or caring! for his pleasure : or if she seeks to live peace- aiily ard make her family happy, but every I effort i 1 let with coldness, indifference, orl sneers from her husband, will not the fruital of such example be shown in the future char- acter and lives of their children ? There can be no happy marriages or happy I homes if. love, pure and sanctified, is not thai foundation. So few young people know I what love is ! A little romance, a good dealj of pride or ambition, hovers about them, a ml I they call it love. " Of all the sad things inl this world, the saddest is the leaf that tellsl what love meant to be, and the turning ofl the leaf to tell what love has been. One all! eni to wli frif lee ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 71 e first year of most critical. )me fully ac- \H the periiiii There is a any lUsagreo- by — and every show well in iccept the mii- ite profoundly h they had so sband may un- lourable among lea — especially with sisters— a wife has a nd to give, as e of respect and rue gentleman also claim that the same rule. JOU8, and kind ite, but for each ir respect and in their inter- worthy ; yet in less and good th the wedding Idren that are ;aught by their ,ess of the obli- an da are joined justing records'! our daily papers r nesbe "like an- !en." sery and strife, f society, or of en of these un- front and take ir country anJ mother is vain, I •willed, in no happy, never gnient or caring] jks fo live peace- ,ppy. but every I inilitTerence, otl 11 not the fruits I the future char- 1 rcn ? rtiivges or happyl titioa, is not the people kno«l nice, a good deal! about tliem, andl ht! sad things in I I leaf that tollsl the turning oil IS beea. One aU| blossoms, the other ashes ; one all smiles and gladness, the other all tears and sadness. Kothing is so beautiful as the temple that love builds ; nothing is so miserable as the service of that temple if God be not in it. " li there be anything that young wedded love should have as it first vision, it should be a vision of a ladder be- tween the earth and heaven, and the an- gels of (iod ascending and descending — and God over all biesfiing it. Then there is hope. Begin your household life, begin your wed- ded life, with a firm hold upon God and purity and heaven, and there is hope for you ; otherwise, sad is your fate !" HUSBANDS AND WIVES. Under this heading an article from The Spectator was sent to us some days since by a friend, as it contained a few ideas that seemed suggestive of matter for The House- hold. We like many parts of the article from The Spectator, and would gladly give it en- tire, but can note only here and there a sentence. In speaking of the choice of a life companion we find this sentence : "There are two broad rules worth teach- ing, because they have some chance of being believed, and they are these : Let the wo- man's first requisite be a man whose home will be to liim a I'st, and the man's first ob- ject be a woman v.iio can make home rest- ful." This we subscribe to ; but the writer should not have stopped there. Like most that is written on this subject, he makes tlie husband's ease and comfort the most promi- nent thing to be considered — "a man to whom home will be a rest," and **a woman who can make home restful." A true loving woman needs no instruction in this particular. She naturally endeavours to insure, by ever}^ means in her power, the peace and rest of her husband, and wdl use all her skill to gather about her kingdom every possible attraction to enable him to find it there. Fit has the wife no claim on her husband by w.ich he shall feel that lie is e(|ually pledged to secure peace and rest for her ? Again : " It is the man with many interests, with engrossingoccupations, with plenty of people to fiylit, who is the really domestic man — who enjoys home, who is tempted to make a friend of his wife, who relishes prattle, who leels in the small circle where uubody is above him and nobody unsympathetic with him as if he were in a haven of ease and re- paration. " All very well as far as it goes. This is what home should be to every husband ; but how about the " haven of ease and repara- tion" for the wife? We know that usually the husband is the "bread-wiii er, " to whose earnest labour, either intellectually or manually, the family look for necessities or luxuries ; but although his work may be the most renmnerative m dollars and cents, are his labours any more wearing and perplexing than his wifis's/* Would he willingly change places? Let the wife go to the law -office, or conduct a case in court ; go as a physician among the sick ; a. piistor or preacher before the great congre- gation ; a salesman in a store ; a president or cashier in a bank ; a mechanic in the shop; a labourer on the farm. Then let the husband supervise and direct the household ; be haras- sed with poor servants, knowing that when things go awry it will be attributed to want of care, or lack of patience with their incom- petency or willfulness ; let him night after night hush and soothe and care for the fledg- lings, that year by year fill the nest ; let him wash and iron, bake and sew, and perform all the labours belonging to the position, in addition to the unceasing care and watch over these little ones. How long would he be content ? How soon would he return to his legitimate labour? Which would tire the soonest ? In this suppositious change we have not taken in to account the inevitable physical weaknesses and sufferings which a woman must endure, aside from her daily eares and labours, of which men can know nothing, fortunately, and can alleviate only by geutlenesip and tender love, • One more extract ; ' *' As we «hould say to women who wish for domestic happiness, never marry a lounger, or a pleasure-seeker, so we should say to men with the same yearning, never marry a fool of any sort or kind. There is no burden on earth like ji foolish woman tied to a competent man ; unable to be his sweet- heart, because she cannot help dreading him; unalde to be his confidante, because she can- not under!stiind him ; unable to be his friend, because she cannot sympathize even with his ordinary thoughts. . . . No amount of that household capacity, which men so aV)8urdly overrate — as if any able woman could not learn to manage a household in three months — can comjiensate for the absence of clear -thought, cjuick comprehen- lv**r 72 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. ■ion, ability to follow and credit or discredit a statement of fact, and competent to under- stand what the huaband is. This is the rook on which thousands of the marrying men of this city split. " Yes. And are not an equal number of our young women shipwrecked on that same rock ? " As if any able woman could not learn to manage a household in three mouths !" It must be a wonderfully able man who could learn to do it, in all its details, in tliree years. All of this quotation but the last «vild mistake, we can fuUy indorse. We only desire that the same rules may be made applicable to botli parties ; we only crave unity between huslmnd and wife ; and that the rules for governing their lives, bound together as they are, and must be by the marriage covenant, should be also united. We have no battle to wage about man's supremacy or "women's rights." We only claim that they should be equal — labouring together for one purpose — the welfare of eacli the upbuilding of their homes — working together in spirit, while each takes that part which is best adapted to the abilities given. We long to see each governed by the law «f kindness — to pee the respect and courte- sies that are bestowed on strangers and ac- quaintances blossom into riper and more teiuler respect and attention when shown to each other. We see with much pain how frequently a husband or wife is quick sightetl to see faults or mistake in their other self which would not be noticed in a friend or ac- quaintance. This ought not so to be. Those who are to walk tlirough life together should i be slow to find faults, but (juick to see and recognize a dee*l well done, hwwever simple for love'» sake, and also for the good such examples can do the young under their care, who are so easily influenced, and that there may be no heart-ache and bitter re- pentance for their " reaping by-and-by." "We vox 'our own' ... With look aiui tone We may never take ba;'k attain. We have careful words for the stranger. And smiles for the transient guest, But oft for ' our own ' The hitter tone, Though wp love 'our own' the best. Ah. lips with the curl impatient ! Ah, brow with tlie look of scorn ! ' rwore a cruol.fate ,'., Wero the \\\^\^^ too late To undo the work of the morn." ' ' ": '. ;" . - ... ■> .>' J.lV.', THIS IS THE WAY IT." WALK YE IN me " Mr-s. Beecher : Will you listen to a moment, and tell me what to do? "I began my married life, about eighteen months ago, with every prospect of unusual liappiness. But a groat change came over the spirit of my dreams. My luisband is always kind and gentle, but no longer, as at first, shares his thoughts with me, or takes me into his counsel and confidence in nuitters where we should be supposed to jiave mutual interests. Gradually a barrier, that I see not how to rtm >ve or overcome, has risen between us. I cannot go to him as I used to — lie will not come to me for expla- nation, if he feels the need of any. I cannot say, 'Tell me what is wrong.-' He would — not unkindly, but inifierently — say, 'Non.sense ! nothing that I know of.' "If I could only know just what was the right thing to do! His love, respect, and confiilence are so much to me, no j)ride would stand in the way of a full and loving understanding. Do tell me what I can do I Through the experience of the last few months I am led to believe tliat, by helping me, you aid many more young married people than I generally supposed. I have reason to think that my trouble is not an uucummon one, but it ia none the less hard to bear. ' This is a difficult and delicate 8ubje«t to handl ; and judging from many similar letters, which we have been reluctant to answer, we have no doubt but that the writer is correct in supposing her case " not an unconnnon one." In many cases — perhaps in most — it is quite probable that what seems "a cloud " is but a freak of the imagination springing up through over-sensitiveness on the wife's part, or from too great anxiety to do what would be most pleasing and accer{)table. Women are much more 4;houghtful of the comfort and happiness of others in little things than men. The little courtesies and attentions, the graceful and gentle words, tliat are to them, when coming from the best and dearest, as the breath of life, are of much less importance to theii" husbands. But judging by their own appreciation of these tokens, they offer them freely, and, if accepted carelessly, or with no response, it hurts. How silly most husbands would t.)ink their wives if they could for a moment realize how sharp the pain is I In many Cctses it is no lack of affection, no sign of estrangement, no chjuds rising in the distance, threatening disiister ; it is only can V pin< ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 73 want of thought, inability to understand tlie needs of organizations so unlike tlieir own. Then, again, the wife ia in danger of for- getting, in her less absorbing cares, that her husband's duties are often complicated, re- quiring close attention and anxious thought ; and it womUI not be strange if, retuniing from such responsJ1>le and diiiicult labours, the affairs of stoi'e or office should still linger in his thoughts, making it sometimes diffi- cult to give a prompt and hearty response to loving attentions. But the danger lies in lack of openness and nnitual confidence. If these peculiar traits ai-e not understood by both, by-and-by serious coldness and misunderstanding may spring up that must eventually mar the beauty of their married life. These little clouds, however, unfortu- nately, are not always the offspring of over- sensitiveness on the wife's part, and the cause, not always absent-mindedness and too freat absorption in business on the husband's, lack of confidence between husband and wife is the canker worm which has destroyed the peace of thousands. And here the wife is usually more in fault, in the early days of their married life, than the husband. She keeps to herself the little mistakes and troubles that are to be to her a source of pain and annoyance, because they may seem childish and insignificant to him, and .she shrinks from being teased or ridiculed. But let a wife go to her liusband freely with her troubles, mistakes or follies even, and, if he is at all worthy of that sacred name,he will assist her to overcome or help her to bear them. This is by far the safest way. He is not her judge or master, but her other self ; and being one, it is wiser to bear the frets and vexations of life together. Let both confide each in the other. He will give her strength and courage, and her quick, instinctive penetration will often help him to see things in a truer light than he would have done alone. He is in the busy world all day, his thoughts distracted by many details and perplexities ; and she — away from the tur- moil and vexations of active outside business life, and often much alone, or v/ith her young children about her — if her husband has confided in her, thinks over the topics they hav€ talked about together — looks at them from every point of view, without such interruptions as distract bis thoughts, and has the time to pause, ponder, and reflect which he needs, but in the whirl of business cannot secure. Without perfect confidence, married hap- piness oauiiot be permanent. Tber« oan be no true union where either through pride or fear, or the consciousness of mistakes or errors, one conceals from or attempts to de- ceive the other, or holds back from any mo- tive that which each had a mutual right to know. Of course, professional men are an exception, in so far as thej withhold froi» their companions the affairs of others com- mitted to their care prolessionally — not a ste^) farther. In all else, tliey who practise concealment, even in business matters, lose half the joy and blessedness which God de- signed that marriage sliould bestow. Wretched, indeed, are they who find the one taken " for better or worse" is like a sieve, incapable of keeping that which was committed to their love and honour. But until hope is vain, and one is compelled to give up all confidence in a companion, let tliere Ije no concealments. ^Valit of confidence on the part of the husband, after the novelty of married life and having a " home of his own" has Worn off, is more frequently practised from the foolish fear that by confiding truly to his wife she may learn to exact it as a right, and his pride takes the alarm, lest trusting to his other and often far better half, he may risk the loss of some of his boasted inde- pendence. The wife is sometimes tempted to conceal- ment, and, alas ! too often to deceit and falsehood, through fear of her husband's anger or, worse, the dread of his ridicule. She may have erred in judgment, or done some foolish, weak, but not M'icked thing ; and having learned too soon that his tones are not always of the gentlest, feels that, in- stead of guiding her to a clearer light and a higher life, he will be more Hkely to sit in judgment on her mistake, or, what is the sharpest thing for a loving heart to endure, make a jest of mistakes, or ridicule her weakness. Rather than face either of these, she sins against her conscience, and conceals her fault. Successful in this — the next conceal- ment is easier and less repugnant, or, if con- science lifts a warning voice, she silences it by the plea that the blame must rest with him, whom, if gentle and loving, she would have so gladly flown to, nothing concealing, but making him always her head and her guide. Married life, opening with every promise of perfect love and harmony, is often wrecked the mischief begun by ',* just one" triflinjj concealment. This is followed by another and another, with shorter intervals. Mis- takes concealed grow more frequent and less simple, and when at last exposed, recrimina« tions bickerings, and heart-burnings destroy 74 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE N the home where tlie light and purity of love once hehljjundisputed sway. This wife of eighteen months, who fears that "a cloud" is risii.g between her and her husband's love, may not, at first, find any help from these suggestions ; but possibly, ' ftfter careful self-examination, they may at least lead her to act well her part, being very rigid with her own shortcomings, and very lenient with herhusband's — above aU, avoid- ing all confidants of either sex. A wife's bo- som should be the tomb of herhusband's fail- ings, which should only be remembered to warn her from the same mistake. But while we now speak chiefly to wives in reply to a wife's request, these suggestions, if of any assistance, are equally needed by tne hus- band. As one, they should be governed in all things, and by the same rules. HARD TIMES CONQUERED. Without being really conscious of it, every one depends, more or less, on the kindness and co-ojieration of others for happiness or success, in whatever is undertaken. But in the present state of linjincial affairs, whoever looks for the helping hand in any business pressure is likely to find a "lion in the way" which retards or entii'ely prevents the fulfil- ment of his hopes. "Hard times" is no imaginary obstacle. To be sure, the term may be sometimes employed too readily as a reason or excuse for refusing kind deeds, yet no one doubts its reality. Its pressure is felt in every department of business all over the country. We can scarcely number the times we have listened to the piteous moans of young people whose parents, by heavy losses, are compelled to reduce their expenses, and call upon their children to aid them.if not by active co-oper- ation, at least by the exercise of a little self- denial — children who, like " tiie lilies of tlie field," were never called upon "to toil or spin." Their " Heavenly Fatlier, " no doubt, " careth forthem," but, unlike the lilies, we think He designed these children to use the strength and talent given, to do all they can for themselves, looking to Him to bless and bring their efforts to perfec ion — " out of seeming evil still inducing good." About seventy years ago, a physician, with ft young family springing up around him, consulting his wife, as all good husbands will find it prudent to do, bought a large farm in one of our New England States, where every farmer truly earns his living by the sweat of his brow. Both felt that nowhere could their children be trained to industry and frugality •0 thoroughly as on a good farm. Of course the doctor was obliged to "run in debt" for this property and give a mort- gage on the place. The payments were to be made quarterly, and promptly, or the whole would be forfeited and rfevert to the original owner. In those days physicians were not likely to become millionaires in a hurry, and though his practice was large the pay was small, and not always sure. He therefore looked to the farm to bring forth the means to release him from the bondage of debt ; and the children, even to the youngest, were taught to labour for, and look forward eagerly to, the time ' ' when we have paid for the farm !" The creditor was the doctor's father-in- law, through his first wife ; and while the good old gentleman lived, if by any mishap or over-press of business the quarterly pay- ment had been delayed, it would have been kindly excused. For the ten or fifteen years that he had lived after the sale of the farm, there had not been one delayed payment, though now and then there would come a time when it was very hard work to secure the needed sum in time ; for even in the olden days " hard times " were often found prowling about, to the great terror of our hard-working New England farmers. But little by little the heavy debt was diminish- ing, and they were looking forward, hope- fully, to the year of Jubilee, when they could sit under their own vine and fig-tree with none to molest and make them afraid. At this J)eriod the father-in-law died. He had had but two children — daughters. The younger, the doctor's wife, died childless. The elder married a hard, close, scheming man, who, knowing that his wife and chil- dren would inherit this property, in case the payments were not promptly met, lost no opportunity of remarking that Dr. Mason's farm would doubtless soon come into his hands, as with his large family he must cer- tainly fail to pay, by-and-by. The financial troubles which the war of 1812 had caused, as all wars are sure to do, Mere not yet adjusted. Money was scarce, anil payments very difficult. Ten children now filled the old house with merriment and gladness ; but they were to be clothed and educated. Let us see how successfully they had been taught to make their high spirits and reso- lute wills cheerful auxiliaries in lifting the burden which, since their grandfather's death, was pressing heavily upon their parents. At the time of which we write, among other crops, rye was extensively raised. It was used for food amons the farmers quite as much as « heat^ but was also valuable for ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 75 other pui'poses. When full-grown, but still in the milK, larce (luivntities were cut U> be used for "braiJiug. " The heads were used for " fodtler ;" the stalks, after being soaked in strong, liot soapsuds, were spread on the grass for the sun to whiten. vVlien suffici- ently bhiached and ready for use, they were cut at each joint, the husk stripped off, and the straw thus prepared tied in pound bundles for sale. Bonnets, then, meant something more than a mere bit of silk or velvet with a flower or feather attached, and the " straw braid " for making theui was in great demand. Boya and girls were alike taught to braid, and the long winter evenings were not spent idly. Dr. Mason raised large crops of rye, and each child, almost as soon as weaned, was taught to braid, and was soon able to earn something by this work, toward clothing himself. At sTx years of age, a dol- lar a week was easily earned by braiding straw ; at eight, three dollars ; and in something of that proportion up to the eldest. Does any one think such a life, with such an object in view, was heard or cruel ? Never was there a greater mistake. It was of immense value to these young spirits. They had something real, that they could understand, to labour for. There were life and couracre and true heroism in it : an education — with here and there, to l>e sure, some rough places to pass over — which was worth more to them than all the money millionaires bequeath their sons and daughters — an education which prepared them in after-life to be courageous and self- helpful. It is this kind of training that has made New England's sons and daughters strong and self-reliant, and the lack of it wliioh makes these liard times iucli a horror tliat many seek death by their own hands, as pre- ferable to the struggle for better times. In the long winter evenings, when the la- bour of the day was over, the children home from school, and the "chores^' all finisheil, the candles were lighted, and the evening work began. The mother in her corner was busy making and mending for her large fa- mily. The doctor, if not with the sick, read in the opposite corner. The children gath- ered round the long table in the middle of the room, where lay the schoobbooks and straw already " r/iat7«rte(Z"f or braiding, while the old fire-place, heaped with blazing logs of hickory, oak, and fragrant bjrch, made the room warm and cheerful. Here, with their books fastened open before them to the next day's lessons, the children, with nimble fingers, plaited the straw, and studied their lessons at the same time. For children taugiit to be industrious usually carry the principles thus developed into the school- room, and are ambitious to keep as near the he.-id of the class as possible. Such a family as this was well equipped io meet and conquer adversity. At last tliere came a period when the doctor waa unusually grave and silent. All noticed it, but no remarks were made until evening, when he came to supper, so unmistakably worried and despondent that his wife in- quired if he was not well. " Yes, well enough. But, Lucy, I have 80 far been unable to collect money for our quarterly payment. So much is due me, that I have had no fears but that enough would be promptly paid to save me any trouble. •' How much is lacking?" " Not quite a hundred dollars ; but it might as well be thousands for any chance I now see of getting it in season. There is so much sickness about, that, as you know, I have had no rest, and little time to collect money. > If not ready before midnight to-morrow, we are ruined. I have kept it from you as long as I dared, still hoping that those who ought to pay me would do so. " " Have you told tliem how very important it is that you have the money ?" "No ; I did not wish to speak of it. Mr. H. is watching greedily for a 'slip,' and wo need expect no mercy at his hands. Under our hard labour and good care this farm has risen greatly in value — too much so for him to spare us an hour, if he can once get hold of it. I am about discouraged. It is the darkest spot we have seen yet. But I must be off, and shall probably be out all night. To think there are not forty-eight hours be- tween us and ruin ! And my hands so tied by several bad cases, that I may not find one hour to try and make up the little that is needed !" For a few minutes after the doctor left, the cliildren stood silent and sad, watching their mother. At last she said : "Children, we can help father through this, and save our home, it you are willing to submit to some little self-denial. No ; I should have sjiid to great self-denial. You have all worked diligently to buy new garments for winter. You need them, and deserve them, and I should be so ha)5py and proud to see you all neatly and comfortably clad. But, to help^ father, are you willing to let me try to clean, mend, or make over your old clothes, and use what you have earned to hel» brighten this dark day ? Whatever the braid you have on hand may bring, with all now 76 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. * due you at the store, is your own, or to be «xpoiuled for your own clothei;! ; and if each one of you is not perfectly willing, I do not wish you to give it up. It is your own, not ours. It was a beautiful sight to see those eager faces watching their mother, ready to an- swer the moment she liad finished ; for, in the olden time, children were taught that it waa disrespectful to interrupt any one when apeaking, even if, as in this case, it wjvs diffi- cult to keep silent. But the reply, when given, was prompt, enthusiastic, and wliat she had confidently looked for. •' Thanks, dear children ! Now, then, hasten. First bring me all your braid, and let us see how much it will come to. " The braid, in ten yards rolls, was brought and its value estimated. "With that which is now due us at the 'store we have nearly sixty dollars ! Well done, for all tliese little fingers ! But now we must devise a way to make up the remainder. Your father spoke last night ot a large quantity of straw which was cut some days since, and which could be sold. H6 will be away all night. If you work well, ■we can cut many pounds before midnight. Now, girls, help me wash the dishes, while your brothers brings, liefpre dark, the straw ■we must cut to-night." By the time the candles were lighted, all "was ready to begin. The younger children were excused at their usual bedtime, but the others worked ■with tlieir mother till the tall clock in the corner struck one. Then all retired for a few hours' rest. Dr. Mason returned home in season for breakfast, and his wife in(iuired if the eldest son could drive her over to the neighbouring town to dispose of some braid for the chil- dren. He replied tliat he must be gone again all day, and neither son nor team could well be spared from imporwint work at home. A strange thing followed this implied refusal. Mrs. Mason, who never allowed her plans or wishes to interfere with her husband's, now repeated her request, and urged it till he yielded, fi-om sheer surprise, apparently, that his wife could be so per- sistent. The doctor went his usual round, and the mother and son departed on their mysterious errand. Their business accomplished, they returned well satistied, and all were ready ■for sapper when the father arrived. A deeper gloom waa on his face when he entered ; but no word . was spoken till all -were seated at the table. He was too much absorbed in his troubled thoughts to notice the suppressed excitement plainly visible oa every face, or if he noticed, knowing they understood his fears, it did not surprise him. Then in a slightly agitated Toice, hi^ wife inquired : " Have you been successful in obtaining the money ?" He shook his head, but remained silent. Each young, quivering face was turned first toward him, then with earnest, half-im> patient glance to the mother. " Do not be discouraged, dear, even at this late hour. " " With the irritability bom of great f»« tigue and anxiety, he replied : "Are you wild, Lucy ? The are are but six hours between us and ruin. Can you talk of hope now ? I have none — none. " With a warning gesture to the children she rose, stepped to the back of her hus- band's chair, and, passing her arm around his nock, said, gently — caressingly : " Yet still hope on, my husband ; God will not forsake us." He moved impfitiently from under her arm ; but, as he did so, she dropped a roll into his bosom antl turned toward her chair. " Lucy I Lucy 1 what is this? Where did you get it ?" All was then wild excitement, each child laughing, sobbing, shouting — but one glance from that strong but gentle motlier quelled the confusion, and she replied : " It is our children's offering, and sufficient to make up the needed sum. I persisted in going away this morning against your wishes, because I saw no other escape. We out the straw last night — many willing hands made quick work ; I sold it, and their braid, ail- ded to 'what the straw came to, with what was alreaiTy due them, completed the sum. " Those who witnessed that scene will never forget it : Dr. Mason with his arm around his wife, and both in tears, calling her all happy names ; the children clinging about their parents, so joyful that home was saved, and they had helped to save it. " Put Charlie into the waggon, quick ! If he fails me not, the six miles between here and M will be the shortest I ever rode. I shall bo home before bed-time to thank you all. I cannot now. Let the children sit up, for once, till I come. I hope we shall never come so near ruin again. " And th'ey never did. In two j'ears the last dollar was paid, and then Dr. Mason vowed he would never owe any one a cent. He kept his vow. I ALL AROUND THE,^OUSB. 77 'isible on ring the/ jrise him. ', hie^ wife obtaining )d Bilont. med first half-imo even at great fa* re but six ou talk of children her huB> m around ;" God will mder her \>ed a roll her chair. S''here did jach child »ne glance er quelled sufficient raisted in ur wishes, e cut the nds made •raid, ad- th what le sum." will never in around her all ng about iras saved, g nick ! If woen here vec rode, shank you ildren sit we shall years the r. Mason |ne a cent. WASHING FLANNELS. Some explicit directions are requested about washing flannels. We noticed this department oT household labour some time Bince, if we mistake not, but are happy to call attention to it again, bacauee later ex- periences show many valuable points in this connection, which may in some respects mo- dify former coun.sela. Cut up what soap may be needed, and dis- solve in a skillet of boiling water. Let it stand on the stove and simmer till every par- ticle is tUssolved. Never rub soap on the flannels or allow a bit to settle on them. Nothing "fulls" flannel so badly as rubbing Boan on it, or letting bits of it settle on the cloth. A place on which a bit of soap has lodged or been rubl>ed in will have a differ- ent shade from the rest when dried, snak- ing the whole garment look spotted. Take a small tub, not quite half full, of scalding-hot or boiling water. Into this pour enough of the dissolved soap to make good suds ; pour to this some ammonia, pre- pared from the "concentrateil ammonia" — a table-spoonful and a half to ten or twelve quarts of suds is a fair proportion — and half a spoonful of powdered oorax. Stir this and the soap into the hot water till it is all thoroughly incorporated. Then put in the flannels. Two or three articles are quite enough to soak at one time, or if large, like blankets, etc., only one should be used. Press them well under the water, but turn them over in the suds occasionally while soaking. Let them remain in the water until it is cool enough to put the hands in without discomfort. VVhile washing,keep a good quantity of water at boiling heat on the range for rinsing purposes, and to keep the suds as hot as it can be used. Before one piece is washed and ready to be wrung out, fill a small tub full of clear hot watei-. Into this stir a little more "blueing " than would be used for cotton or linen. Shake out each piece as soon as washed quickly, and throw at once into the hot rinsing water. Bub the flannel as little as possible, but draw it repeatedly through the hands, squeezing rather than rubbing. Harsh rub- bing thickens and injures the fabric. Never wring with a wringer, as the pressure mats the nap down so closely as to destroy all the soft, fleecy look of good flannel. Wring as dry as possible with the hands, then rinse and wring again ; and when as dry as it can be made by hand, snap out, stretch and pull into the true shaj>e, and dry in the open air, if possible. Bring in when not (^uite dry, roll up a short time, and iron while still a litt'e damp, so that each part can be more reatlily brought into shape. Pressing, when ironing, is better for the flannel than rub- bing. It does not make the fabric feel la hard and wiry. Scarlfl flannel is poisonows to some skins if used before it has been washed ; and as one is not always sure how they may be affected by it, it is safer to give it a scald in hot water with a little soap — not enough to make a strong sads — before wearing. Let it stand and soak a few minutes, then wring out and treat like other flannels. The smell of new red flannel is not agreeable to many, and for this reason it is desirable to wash it before using. But no washing that we have pjiy knowledge of, can keep red flannel look- ing nice if used for underwear for any length of time, unless worn by people that do not perspire freely. It becomes badly dis- coloured and spotted in many cases. Wash- ing red flannel before making up will " shrink " it as much as is desirable. MANAGEMENT OF INFANTS. "A reader" inquires "how early it is safe or best to put infants to bed alone, " and desires information "about the 2are of young children." We cai! only answer these inquiries through our own experience. One is inclined to believe one's own way best ; and all the directions on this subject are so varied — no two persons believing in or practising the same rules — that it is impossible for mothers to decide upon the best mode of rearing their little ones, unless they learn to judge for themselves. But, to do that, their judgment must be gained through experience. Ah ! there is the nnsery of it 1 In many things the various experiments tried — and mistakes made — before one learns the most sensible way of doing a thing, may be amusing, inconvenient, and a little humiliat- ing often, but seldom do harm that is past repairing. Not so when the objects of our experiments are our " winsome wee babies." A mistake in the management of these frail and dependent little ones, if not fatjil, may bring great suH'enng to them and lifedong sorrow, that finds no alleviation to their mothers. Therefore our care of them should never be through experiments on many different theories, but by a carefully matured plan. Of course we have in mind not the bodily management only, but the first steps toward mental development. There is no sweeter pleasure than a mother feels when, with her ])ahj' in her arms, nest- ling in her boBom,aud looking up in her eyes, w ALL \ ftltb ND THE HOUSE. she lulls it to rest with loving smiles and soft, cooing caresses. As she watclies the height eyes gradually close, and sees it pass into a sweet and tranquil sleep, it is not easy to forego the pleasure of holding it a little longer and enjoying its unconscious loveli- ness. These are the sweetest hours that a mother ever knows ; and because they arc so sweet, many an infant is spoiled, and be- comes a little tyrant before it is a year old. We never had leisure to spoil our babies by over-indulgence in this pleasure. As a ceneral thing, those mothers who have the least time to spare have the most quiet and least troublesome infants. It is those who, having few outside cares, devote their time almost exclusively to their children — making all the household subserviejit to their earliest whims and caprices, keening two or three nurses to fly at every call — that have the most troublesome and unruly children. When an infant is washed, dressed, and well fed at proper intervals, one may think of it till the heart is satisfied ; but tlie less no- ticeable care it has, over and above that, the better for the comfort of the family by-and- bv, and a thousand-fold better for the child itself, fi"©m its birth and all the way up to maturity. In the morning, as nearly at the same hour as is possilde, if the babe is awake, (never otherwise), take it up, wash and dress it. If old enough for play, the mother may indulge herself and child in that pleasure for a few moments, and while dressing, let it stretch itself, jump it, toss it up, not roughly, but 80 that every joint and muscle Has a cliange and is well exercised. Be careful and stop before the little one is weary or unduly excited. Many a nervous child has had convulsions that a careful observer could trace back to a boisterous frolic, carried be- yond its frail strength. Washing, dressing, and frolicking having received due attention, the little one is ready for breakfast, and, after a good niglit'a rest, is not likely to go to sleep while nursing ; but as soon as its hunger is appeased, if not excited any more, it will be perfectly coli' tented if laid on the bed while the crib can have a very thorough airing. Now tlie mother may leave it and attend to other duties. If she has begun r ght, and the child has never been accustomed to any other way, it will look for nothing more ; but, happy and contented, will lie cooing and smiling, watching the shadows on the wall, or tlie waving leaves and branches seen from tlie window — anytliing that is in mo- tion — till the eyes grow small, and at last the white lids close over them, and the baby is asleep. Begin in this way from the birth. Let no nurs^, however skilled, give the child ita first lesson ; if the mother is strong enough to speak, allow no rocking or walking with the child. When every want is Hiipplie«l, the l)ed or crib is the best ^)lace for an in- fant in good health, and if this is acted upon from the beginning, the child will look for nothing else ; it sliould never know that anything else can be had for the asking. It will not expect to be rocked to sleep ; it will never know that it has lost anything by sleeping alone. A large roomy crib is a good thing. It is not well for a young babe to sleep in the same bed with its parents. It will not sleep as well ; and a child will not be so strong or healthy as if laid in its own well-aired bed alone. Cribs are an excellent invention, but a cradle with rockers is quite the reverse. We never believed that the motion of rocking was good for a child. We never had a cradle in the house, and never held a child iu a rocking-cliair for the sake of rocking. The less a child is "tended," the less it is in the mother's or nurse's arms, the more it is left to stretch and play on the bed, or, later, to roll about on a rug on the floor, the better for the child, and the more easy, cer- tainly, for those who have the care of it. It will have stronger muscles and better figure if left to put itself in natural positions. If held in the arms, its limbs are often cramped, or the body put in a most unnatural and un- comfortable position. Trotting a young in- fant or setting it up on the knee, letting it bend over the arm, so that the poor little head rolls or nods about, because the neck is not strong enough to support it, is a very injurious thing. We have seen very young infants ruptured for no reason that we could imagine but the incessant " (rot-trot" of the mother or nurse, or from holding them so tliat they bent forwai'd over the arm before the umbilical cord was thoroughly healed and strong. These are little things, but much of a child's after health and comfort, and the comfort of those who have it in their charge, depend upon tliem ; and tliese little tilings — these rules and directions which seem so insignificant and unimportant in the care of a more child — will scatter small seeds that,by- and-by, will spring up into the full-branched tree, bearing fruit, good or evil, according as they have been properly or improperly un- derstood and acted upon. , ' ti Jll ;» "ilpr iti'i 1. tha an( tim Nor m feel ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. n HARD TIMKS AND HAPPY HOMES NOT INCOMPATIBLE. After a hard day's work, with Biimll re- muneration, many a man rt>tnrnM to hin humble homo content and lia]>|)y, knowing that tlie coai'He, nerliaps scanty, fare he will tiiid is seasoned with love by the wife who watches for liiH coining, and wlio daily la- hours as hard and as cheerfully as lie does, for tiieir mutual support any their first over- thiow, and also an independence that forbids rcMiewed olnidience to those laws of society that are abitrary, unreasonable, and tyran- nical. "Neither poverty nor riches " is the medium that Ijest insures true, inde])eudeut happiness. Not long since a young wife came to u» earnestly desiring to learn, if it was in her jjow^er, to help her husband by her own exer- tions. With a small income to start with, and now greatly diminished Vjy the reduction df wages, they could no longer pay what they hail been doing for their board, which though not an exorl)itant price, had hither- to given them a coinfortal5le living. We asked : Could she teach, or do fine sewing? "No, she did not think it wise to confine herself to such work so closely as to make it remunerative, and certainly not capable of teaching." \Vhat salary did her husband receive! "Seven hundred a year." Had she any family ? " None but herself and husband." Did she understand hou8e-\vork ? Could she cook nicely by not extravagantly ? She thoiiglit she could. We learned they had furniture sufficient for one room. Then, we said, why not take one room, or, if they could, find one with a small hall- room opening into it to serve for a kitchen, and go to housekeeping ? T^he look of amazement that flashed across the bright young face would have been a study for an artist. "Housekeeping! with only furniture for one room and but seven hundred dollars a year ! Surely, Mrs. Beecher, you cannot be in earnest I There is nothing we so greatly desire ; but we could not live decently on so small an income." We assured her we were in earnest, and though she could not receive much company, or give parties in one room, yet we were confident, a capable, efficient wife could make this small cage a home of peace and contentment, and secure a good share of the real comforts of life — a home round which. If»*p" 80 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. in after-years, might cluster some of the sweetest experiences of life. The lady was iocre'luloua but very much in earnest, and modestly wished we could spare *ime to give her some practical expla- nations of the way we imagined this could be accomplished. Time with us is a very scarce article, but we never spent an hour which ha given »nore pleasure in the retrospect, because we have learned the seed was sown on good ground and has brought forth good fruit. NEITHER POVERTY NOR RICHES. In the last chapter we spoke of an inter- esting conversation with a young wife, who was anxiou* to assist her husband in making his small salary support them in comfort and respectability, and mentioned our advice to try keeping house on a very small scale. The little lady listened attentively, earn- estly desiring to be a true " helpmeet" to lier husband ; but evidently half doubting that the ideas we were endeavouring to make^ simple and intelligible could be, or ever had been, put in practice. When at last told her how to manag^on " washing-day,'' her astonishmeiit was unbounded. " Do my owT^washmg ! Why, I never did a bit of washing in my life !** "Well, it is never ioo late to begin. You Bay you are strong and have excellent health. The prevalent idea that there is degradation in it, or that the washing for tw o persons must be hard work, is a great mistake. Many things that every good housekeeper must do are infinitely harder than washing. " "I have always put great reliance in your directions and recipes, because you tell us that you speak only of what you know and have tried your own self. But do not think me rude, dear madam, if I cannot help feel- ing that in advising me Ui attempt to keep house in one or two small rooms, and do my own work, washing included, you must be speaking theoretically, not practically. If in my circumstances, do please to tell me, could you — would you attempt to do your- self that which you have advised me to un- dertake ?" •• My dear child, in this matter, as in many others, the advice is based on actual exper- ience, and under far less favourable circum- stances tlian you have any prospect of en- countering. Our life has not ))een an easy one, and we sincerely hope it will never be too easy. Those who, in tl>e common accep- tation of that phrase, have an 'easy life' never fully develop into all that (iod gave them capacity to be. They are dwarfed. If not exactly indolent, they are never self- helpful, and bury kalf, and often more than half, of their talents in a napkin. "As you seem sceptical, listen to a story of our early houseket'ping : With a salaiy not half equal to your h -baud's, we wer > firs^- settled far West. ">?.»r six wec'is ^i^ boarded, or rather were entertainei' r>' a parishioner. Then changes in their family rendered it necessary for us to decide on some more independent mode of livmg. Boarding was too expensive and would eat up all our small income. But how could we keep house on it ? "Yoa have sufficient to furnish one room, you say. We had nothing. We could not rent a whole house. That was far beyond our ability. At last we found two small rooms ; but such rooms ! They had been occu- pied by labouring men, without a woman s care, and were exceedingly dirty. But we knew what soap and water, guided by a willing spirit, could do to purify and freshen. Tobacco juice and smoke, well dried in, re- quire many pails of hot suds and renewed applications before they can be obliterated ; and our landlord would not consent to paint. "This work was very hard; but we did not scrub alone. The husband with as willing hands, and a much stronger arm, lightened the labours wonderfully, and made our first house-cleaning a time n ver to be forgotten. " At last our little roo ns were clean, and to furnish them was the next effort. A cook-stove, a small square of cotton carpet- inj vhat just covered the middle of the floor in our * best room, " an old bureau, a pair of candle-sticks, half :*-dozen cups and saucers, and as many knives and forks, were given us. The husband's college study-table, chair, single bedstead, and a brass lamp, were hunted up from the ' good-for-nothings' in the Seminary yard — well cleaned and polished, and sent down from the Seminary to our home. We found, among some rub- bish in the back yard — thrown out to b© burned — three shelves, the remnants of an old bookcase. These were cleaned, varnished, and screwed to the back of the study-table, and the top of the table covered with a piece of cloth, the remains of an old coat found also among the debris of college days. Now, what countiy pastor could wish for a more convenient not to say elegant — study-table than this ? " A very cheap table covered with an old shiwl, half a dozen wood-seated chairs, a C'leap bedstejid, husk mattrass and pillows, two sheets and a pair of pillow-cases — to be washed, ironed, aired, and replaced every Monday — completed the furnis ing of what was to be the pastor's study, and our par- lour and bedroom. Fortunately there was a ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 81 ore than ) a 8tc»'y a salary we we'i 'et'is 'P> lei' b- * jir family decide on >f living, lid eat up could we one room, could not )eyond our all rooms ; Kjen occu- a woman a r. But we aided by » ,nd freshen. ried in, ra- id renewed bliterated ; nt to paint. 1 we did not 1 as willing n, lightened ade our first )e forgotten. e clean, and f effort. A )tton carpet- of the lioor ,u, a pair of ,nd saucers, , were given study -table, brass lamp, ifor-nothings* cleaned and |lie Seminary ig some rub- out to be nauts of an d, varnished, study-table, with a piece coat found days. Now, Ish for a more study -table ll with an old |ted chairs, a and pillows, j-cases— to be l>placcd every ) ing of what land our par- ly there wau a piiiall cupboard in the room which held all our tal)le furniture. •' The smaller room was to be the kitchen, and in it the stove was placed. There was a sink in this room ; anil from two boards fduml among the fuel, tlie husband matlc a cover, which could be shut down ovei the sink and make p cooking or ironing table, as needed. A curtain of four-cent calico was stretched by a wire across one corner of the iiiom. making a half circle. A wire ran tluough the hem at the bottom and linked into a staple at each corner,held it linn like a partition. Here, on a bench on one side, the tubs and wash-boiler were placed, the flour- barrel and otlier stores on the other side ; iiNoi'head, the bridle, saddle, etc., were hung wrapped up in a piece of this same expensive calico, and a calico roof was stretched over all to keep out dust. ■' The single bed, redeemed from the rubbish of college days, having been well- nigh worn out with scrubbing and scalding, was placed in the back part of the room. Four long poles were screwed into the cor- ners; a strong wire on which a certain amount (if calico was strong was fastened into staples at the top of the poles. This was our ward? rol>e when we had no company, and our gar- ments were tied to the wire inside. But if company came to stay overnight our gar- ments weR; all folded, put into trunks and slippt-d under the bed, and our double bed, w ith its husk mattrass and pillows, given up to our guests, while we adjourned to the kitchen clothes-closet, or single bed. "This has given you a full list of our furni- ture. Here we passed the first year of our married life, and there never was — and never can Ve— a happier year. We did oil.' own work, washing, ironing.and all. It wasoften liard at first; but, thanks to the training of a noble mother, the work was not unfamil- iar, and, knowing the value of systematic !al)()ur, we soon learned to do all that was needi'il and yet have many spare hours. Af- ter keeping well ahead of our own sewitig, even without a pcvving-m'.achine, we found leisure to take other sew:;ig that was re- mnuerative and a great lielp " Ucmembiir that in living in small apart- ments there is less to do tlian if occupying a whole house. Even one large room, with a Si leen or curtain stretclied across to hide the coiik-stove and table, should callers happen in at untimelv hours, is almost as convenient as two small ones — unlqss liable to com- pany, occasionally, over-night. You will liave the advantage of us in selecting a room, for in a large city there are many to choose from. Try to secure one with wardrobe and a cupboard. These are a great convenience if one can find them and afford, the rent of such a room ; but not an absolute necessity, if they cannot be found without great ex- pense, the united ingenuity of husband and wife should be able to improvise a substi- tute. "Begin with prompt and early nsing, even if your husband's avocation does not compel an early breakfast. If it does not, all the more reason for early rising, f6r by this ex- cellent habit he will have an hour or two to assist in making the ^mall home more con- venient, and working in a garden-patch, if so happy as to have one. If the room whiqh is to be home is on thesecoml storey — as oura was — he will take pleasure in splitting the wood — "if fortunate enough to have any — bringing up water and coal to last till his return at jiight, or going for such market- ing as may be needed. We wouhl bethuuk- ful if always sure of as cheerful and compe- tent an assistant as we know a gocd liusbaud can be. ^ ' ' As the work grows familiar, it will not take long to finish that which pertains to the morning's work. Of course, with only one or even two rooms the bed cannot be made till after breakfast j but spread it up neatly and air the room. "As soon as breakfast is over and the hus- band has left for his day's work, take off the bedclothes and place them by an open win- dow, tui'u over the mattrass, siiake up the pillows, and leave all for a thori)ugii air- ing till the dishes are washetl ami the early murning work is finished. Then make tlie bed, sweep and dust the room ; and if your husband does not return to dinner, as is too often the case in cities, arrange for your own simple lunch, and for a pleasant dinner with him on his return. After this work is finished tliere will be a long, quiet time for sewing, reading, writing or any outsid* work that may be needed.- " On Monday the washing for two cannot take more tlian an hour or two, and then leave plenty time for rest by reading, sewing, etc., before the late dinner, unless you pre- fer to 'make a day of it' — as we used to do— and do washing and ironing the same day. " Make all preparations for breakfast the night before ; and if a late dinner is neces- 8{iry, be sure that the breakfast is strength- giving, though simple, and keep on hand something that can be neatly put up for your husband's lunch ; for home lunchea should be more palatable, aside from being more economical, than any found at a res- taurant. "Have we convinced you that our advice, if theoretical, is capable of practical demon- stration ? If so, we shall hope to hear that :m ALL AROUND THK HOUSE. you have tried it with groat success ; and doubt not you will make iniprovenieuts on our personal illustration, or individual ex- perience. " WASHING-DAYS -OLD NEW. STYLK AND Among the many grievances with which houaekt^epers are too much inclined to enter- tain their friends, the discomforts of wash- ing-days, and trials and vexations originating with their servants, often hold the most pro- minent place. One is tempted to inquire if -a return to the primitive customs of the an- xcients — the days of the Tudors and Stuarts — would give them greater satisfaction, or make life more enjoyable? ^ No cotton was known in those days, and wearing-apparel was never washed. What happiness ! What glorious lives the hus- bands must have led ! The garments of the poor were made of harsh, coarse woollen, and worn unwashed and uncleaued until they could no longer hang together. No under- clothing was ever worn by rich or poor ! How would our dainty niatront 'ike being flerved by such filthy, unwashed attendants ? If simply reading about these customs is eickening and disgusting, what would the reality be? The nobles and people of wealth were clothed in rich silks, velvets, or taffetas — a kind of thick silk with a wavy lustre — nnich Jike the watered silks of more modern times. Washing such garments was, of course, never thought of ; but, if by long-continued use thoy became unseemly, chey were put into i;he hands, not of a laundress, but a dyer I In)agine the amount of filth thus hidden •from sight ! But could any dye-stutf con- ceal the foul smells that long contact with the body, without washing, must l.ave dove- loi)e(l, even if lieakh was not impaired by siicli utter lack of cleanliness ? hoMides, in tliose daysneithe" rich nor poor '-wore ufider-garments, and the out.iidc .appa- rel had the full benefit of all the dirt that could a line a purple ', elvet night-gown, and also the quantitv of lace retjuired. Such garments were dyed when they passed out of lur hands, if her Uxdies-in-waiting chose, but they were never washed. After many years, a more cleanly order of things began to creep in, and linen goods came gi'adually into more general use. \\'ith this approach to comfort, the idea, or rather ' necessity, of washing such articles began to dawn on the now partially cultivated com- munity, but, like the house-cleaning of the p'-esent day, it was only attempted two or three times a year. As the product of 11 m loom became more abundant, ro the desire foi a large quantity of clothing grew with the increased sup])ly, and, as garments mul- tiplied, the pleasure and comfort of having them clean became appareiit. But as yet the possibility of more than two seasons a year for the cleansing had not been revealed. A broader civilization, in- creasing knowledge, and more extensive man- ufactories, n.ade the multiplication of gar- ments easy, and particularly as at that pe- riod woman was judged moi ^ by the amount of sewing she had accomplished than liy her mental culture. Going from one extreme to the other, their eyes were opcmd to the absolute necessity of having not menly one or two dresses, bu*. closets full ; and from fifty to a hundred sets of undergar- ments, instead of none at all. This supply, which in our time would be thought fabulous, was a necessity when there were only t\\ o seasons a year to do all the washing. Weekly washings became a regular family arrangement with us much earlier tlian in the old country. Some time after the Hun- garian revolution, when Kossuth, with many of his brave compeers, was in America, one of the noble ladies, who was in our family some weeks, Mas greatly astonished oa learning tiiat our washing was done every week, and in our. own house. From her we understood, better than before, how tlii.s work was managed in Hungary, and, indeed, generally throughout Europe. Linen goods are much cheaper than with us. In every family a large stock of gar- ments was made for each meml>er, for many changes vrerc indispensable between tl f. st^mi-ainiual washing days. Kvvu the poori r classes had many such garments, thoiirli 6ft(Ui of the coai'se.st. Spring and autumn were the times usually employed for tie great washing-carnival. The clothes fiiin many families wer(^ brought in large hnin- pers to the l)anks of some river, where, attr washing, they were bleached for sevuml ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. 83 [ her or- •skins ti> also tlie fai'inents t of Ihv .ose, but ^ order of leu goods ise. AVitli or ratlu'V i began to ated coni- ng of t\ie ted two or luct of tliC , the desire grew witii ineuts nud- t of having more than sing had not ilization, in- tensive man- ,tion of gar- ts at that lie- f the amount led than by , from one 'were open^a Jig not menly 8 full ; and , undergar- his supply, ght fabulous ,e oidy two hing. g'llar fanuiy lier than iu ter the Huu- ili, with many America, one a our fannly istonished ' •'» dime cvi'iv From her v e ,re, how tins ■ , and, indeod, per than witli stock of gaf- her, for mauy il <•- a hetweeli Lve Inien u the poor ts, tliou; un ,. and autui Th.yed for tl^e "lothes fr">i> I in •r, w ,a\ge l\(,r* ham- »tt.v a for sever A ^lays. And need enough there must have iieen for a long pn^cess of Ideachiug to whiten clothes that had lain soiled for six mouths. Tlie grounds were under the care of public authorities day and night, to prevent any dirtiurbance, where so many were assembled together ; but when the wasliing, bleacliing, drying, mangling, and ironing, were all completed, those who had home the burden and heat of the day finished — as they do with us in hop picking season — by a night of danoe and hilarity. Tliat part of the perfor- uiance may have been some comjiensation for the employees ; but would our liousekeepers \i^ willing to have their clothes lie six months tlirty, growing yellow and rotten, to escape the trouble, which need not be very distressing, of a weekly washing? WHY IS MONDAY RECOGNIZED AS THE WASHING-DAY? 1 ■ /tt,- ■'•-( To some extent we are creatures of habit, ami accept that which has become an estab- lished custom, without much reflection, simply because it was " our mother's way. ' But we question if Monday would have been so lonijf and generally accepted as the washing-day by good and sensible house- keepers, if they were not satisfied that, taking all the varied labours of the house- hold into consideration, that day was, on the whole, the most appropriate for that particu- lar work. Now and then a few rise up and remon- strate, giving reasons that at first appear plausible, but do not bear careful examina- tion. They certainly have not been hitlierto strong and weighty enough to convince housekeepers in geiijeral, or to br'^ak up the custom. We imagine that those who are merely lookers-on — not active workers— or do not superintend close enough to be capable of giving substantial reasons against the custom — -are usually the ones to raise these objections. The strongest argument we have ever heard against doing the family washing on Monday is that, as considerable prehminary work overnight is reciuircd so as to be ready for eai'ly morning washing a proper regard for the sanctity of the Sabbath would deter all Christian housekeepers from making the preparations on Sunday evening. Ihit what necessit}^ is there that such ar- rangements should be made «n that night ? >Iost of the white clothes are in the clothes-basket by Saturday night. Let the tubs Ik! partly filldl that evening with clear. s?iift water, and if it is convenient to have it warm —not hot — it i» better. Then all the aitiiles that are ready may be carefully sorted out, and put at once to soak Saturday evening. In this way there will be not much left to tempt to any infringement on the peace and sanctity of the Sabbath To be sure, there will be some articles that could not have been put to soak Saturday night ; and we fail to see any more sin in putting such as neeil soaking into a tub of water made ready the night before, than in picking them up and putting them into the clothes- basket. We know some are so strict that they think it wrong to change the bed linen vSuu- day morning. But .ve have always felt that it was peculiarly appropriate — a very proper mark of respect for the day^to liave every- thing fresh and clean Sunday morning, in the chambers, as well as on the table, or (jur own persons. And surely these scrupulous ]>eo- ple will change their own and their children's linen on that morning. Is that leas sinful than putting on clean sheets ? In airing , the beds before making them (and no one will dL-ipute that such airing is as necessary on Sunday mo ning as on any other) the clothes are all strapped off. Is it mcji't; wicked to throw the slieets into the clotlnis-basket than to spread them across a chair ? Then, if clean sheets are laid out Saturday — as they shoukl be — how many more minutes would it take to spread them on the bed Sabbath morning than it would to replace them had they been put on fresh Saturday ? The only extra work we can ste is drawing off the soiled pillow-cases and putting on the clean, carrying those taken off with the sheets to the laundry, and put- ting thein into the water that waits ftr tlieni —perhaps it would be five miiuites' extra work in all. These objections savour of the " straining at the gnat and swallowiug the camel." \Vhen putting clothes to soak, have the tubs half filled, and in one put all the fine things — muslins, cuffs, collars, and shirts. Next take all the table-linen and put to soak in a separate tub — no one would like table- liuiii washed or soaked with bed-linen or underwear, therefore the bed-linen is put in another — and put the coarsest and most soiled articles by themselves in a third tub. For obvious reasons, dish-cloths and wipini;- towels must always be soaked and washed apart from other articles. This done, tiia contents of each tub or pail should be covered well with water and pressed down. Very little if any soap should be allowed in the water that clotlies are soaked in. If tlusre cliance to be a spot or stain, the .soap " sets " the colour and renders it almost indelible. Monday morning, bright and early, pre- 84 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. if pare a boiler full of clean, warm suds — not very hot — by stirring into the water some soap that has been dissolved in hot water Saturday night. Drain off all the water in which the clothes were soaked shaking them lip and down in this water as it runs off, and pre9.s them hard against the sides of tlie tub occasional!}', so as to free tliem from as much water as possible. When all has drained out, pour over the clothes the warm suds. It will be found that the clothes will wash much easier if soaked well, and will look much cleaner afterward if properly washed and rinsed. Be careful that they are abund- antly covered with water all the time they are sojiking, and be sure and keep table- linen and dish-towels separate from other clothes both in soaking, washing, and rins- ing. If the weather is fair, a good laundress will have her washing done long before dark — unless she has an enormous wash. Then, before bringing them in, she will clean out tubs and boilers — wiping all very dry — put into their proper places the soap, blueing, and pails ; have her range cleaned out and all ready for the next day's work ; the floor well washed with some of the cleanest of the suds left over. This done, she will be ready to bring in the clothes, take down and roll up her line, sprinkle and fold her clothes, and have all ready to begin ironing early Tuesday morning. The wasiiing and ironing done, the girl, if she has anything to do with the chamber- work, has now ample time to sweep and dust, wash windoAvs, etc., and have the liouse in excellent order by Saturday night. But if the washing is left till the middle of the week*, and delayed by storms or cloudy weather, the clothes cannot be all washed, dri^d, and ironed, by Saturday. Nothing is mere inconvenient than to have this work left over the Sabbath unfinished. In warm weather the clothes they have sprinkled and folded must be shaken out and dried, or they will mildew ; and the same is neces- sary also in cold weather, for if tiiey freeze the starch will be injured, ami all the sprink- ling and folding must be done again. Added to this, very few have such an abundant supply of cotton and linen articles thot they would not often find it quite troublesome if the full stock was not ready to be drawn from Saturday night. But if the washing is under way Mon(iay, even if delayed some- what by bad weather, it will seldom fail to be in order in time to prevent mwch venience. There are other reasons show the cappropriateness of wasli Monday, but it is hardly necessary more. incon- which ing on to say . , . "SILENCE IS GOLDEN." We remember, when quite young, hearing a schoolboy tell another to '"hohl his tongue." We exclaimed at the rudeness, but were silenced by the grave assurance that the boy was quoting the "eleventh commandment!" If a " c(>'nmandment, " then we supposed, of coursj, ^ iimst be in the Bible, and, if there, it co^.ld not be other than perfectly proper. Aided by the ' Con- cordance," we searched the Scriptures for the " eleventh commandment," but failed to find it. But though this specific injunction could not be found in the Bible, in riper years we have often thought that parents would miow the greatest kindness to their young chil- dren if they would teach them, from e- liest years, how; wise a thing it is to bridle the tongue ; and, what is after all the most effective teaching, make them see, by their parent's examples, that they believed in, and acted upon, the lessons they tried to inculcate. Words spoken in season are of the greatest value ; but, now and then, even with our best and dearest, there come seasons wh'^ii the gift of silence is far more to be desired than the most royal gifts of eloquence. With almost every one there will arise something that tempts to dispute, when to refrain from a reply would be the better as well as the harder way — when even a " soft answer " has not half the power of perfect silence. With the ignorant and passionate it is not only useless, but the wildest folly to dispuic. We doubt if Solomon, with all his wisdom, was in the most trustworthy state of niiml when he advised to " answer a fool accord- ing to his folly." He certainly could not luave been influenced by tha*" wisdom whicli comes through inspiration. With great self- control, sensible people may dispute or dis- agree over points of interest, and yet not for- get the laws of kincjuess and common-sense. But to attempt to "answer a folly" is to descend to his level. In the iiousehold there are many things which demand forbearance and a good stuck of patience. In a large family hardly an i hour goes by, even when all are dispssed to | he ruled by the laws of love and kindness, that little shadows do not pass over the I horizon, which, by a trifling irritation oif mistake, could be nursed into dark clomls, tlircatcning a storm ; but, by silence nyi "setting a watch over the door of the mouth" — they pass away without a rijiple. The wife --more than any one else — shoiildl have full possession of the crowning huiise- ALL AROUNL THE HOUSE. 85 r, hearing hold hie rudeness, assurance 'eleve\ith Mulnient," lUst be in Dt be other the ^'Con- ptures for ut failed to •tion could sr years we would ffiow young obib ■rom e- 'iest , bridle the II the most lee, by their believed in, ^ey tried to f the greatest en with our seasons when ,0 be desired quence. ere will arise ,ute, when to the better as 1 even a " sot't; wer of perfect ionate it is not illy to dispuu'. ai his wisdom, r state of niiH'l • a fool accord - inly could not wisdom which SVith great scU- dispute or dis- and yet not fov- [ comnion-senKO. •r a folly" i^ w vre many things I iind a good stock 1 family hardly nn are dispssed to | ve and kindness. ,t pass over the ling irritation ov| into dark chnias, b, by silence "Jj Koorofthemoulii a rill pie. ,, . one else -sh-uiai ..Towning huuse-l liold giace of silence, and know how to hold licr peace even from words of greeting or I nileannent. Men are so entirely unlike woinen in this respect that while loving strongly and faithfully, they do not depend on the daily outward expression of it, as woinen do. A word of eiideaiuieiit, a smile, or caress, are all pleasant enough now and then ; but these little weaknesses are not necessary for a man's comfort and happiness. On the contrary, a loving wife can dispense witli'food now and tlien, and think it no luirdsliip, if, by thus forgetting lier own bodily needs, she secures the time to cater for the taste or minister to the comfort of tliose she loves, lint loving words — espe- cially from the one loved par excellence — tritliiig expressions of affection and tender- ness, she cannot dispense, witliout sutieriiig and loss. They are her life ; with them her nature expands, broadens, becomes richer and nobler; without them she withei-si and is greatly impoverished. Some husbands little know how quickly their wives may deterior- ate and become mere cold machines if they pass lieedlessly on their way, forgetting tlie heart-famine they leave at home. But, no matter how much a wife craves gentle attentions and loving notice, it is better that she should teach herself to know the great power she may command by silence — but that which gently tends toward peace. Its patient continuance will sometimes open a husband's eyes to his unintentional neglect, and make him love and honour his wife all the more for the quiet lesson she has taught him. ■ There are times in a man's life, far more than in a woman's, when any reply to careless remarks, or complaints of inatten- tion or seeming neglect, would be unwise and threaten trouble. A woman in comfortable health naturally wakes in the morning in a pleasant, happy frame of mind, inclined to cheerful, sprightly conversation ; and if her husband was of the same mind, could, in these few moments of morning converse and greeting, drink in enough nectar to make her eyes bright and her face cheerful all day long. But unfor- tunately, it often happens that the short time devdted to waking and dressing are the very moments when a wise woman will hold her peace, and be content to know that lov- ing attentiims and pleasant wowls have more power, and are better appreciated, after a hot steak or chop, and a good cup of coffee, than before. We agree with the "Inquirer," at whose rtqnest we write, that such a .state of thingsy with w hicli we judge she has had a large ex- perience, does not appear to be just. But ■llire are the fticts, which iu many families are of too common occurierice. Can you ef- fect a change by constant repining— a long, ■ad face to meet the delinquent when he re- turns ? Does not that mood — which we judge has been too common — enhance the evil and risk, changing carelessness now and then in- to a settled indifference? And by expostula- tions, complaints, and perhaps reproaches, does not a wife endanger her own love ? Wliile that shines undiminished there is al- ways, hope that the "dove of peace and promise" will yet fold its wings and take up its abode there, and the la.st days of that household be brighter and more lovely than the first. Have we helped "Inquirer" toward the solution of her doubts and fears? Will she try the virtue of silenee — a cheerful silence — when tempted to " last speeches," and see if it will not do more to " lift the cloud" she thinks she feels settling over her house, than the " bitter invectives she is tempted by wounded pride and irritated love" to utter ? The first, faithfully acted upon, brings hope of better times ; the latter, if not at once and forever dismissed, is sure destruction to • all true love and domestic peace. SIMPLICITY, OR EXTRAVAGANCE? A large class of people all over our land are this day in actual need of the commonest necessaries of life, and we are met every- where by|strong, able-bodied men and women begging — not for food — but for work, by which to earn enough to save their families from starvation. While such genuine dis- tress is known to exist, would it not be wise in those whose lot has fallen in easier places, who have a goodly heritage, to inaugurate a bettor economy — a simpler mode of living — and by it secure not only increased means for a larger benevolence, a higher happiness, but, by their example, give a practical lesson to those less favoured with this world's goods? Are not the leaders of faihion in the present emergency responsible if they do not teach a simpler and less extravagant style of dressing as well as living? Ah! if "style" or " fashion" did not "shine to bewilder, and dazzle to blind," how easily would the greater beauty of less elaborate dress, of simple, modest elegance, be recognized and appreciated by every one ! It is impossible that any one can see beauty or true taste in the deformities of the present fashions. They are too grotesquely absurd, and as soon as they pass away, those who now exclaim, '* How lovdi/ V " How ele- gant !" will be among the first to ridicule them. There ia much we wish to say of the ab- )■-! ■ < «n p 80 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE Burdities of fashion, but defer it till a loore convenient season. Just now we are over- burdened by the sorrows of those who are seeking work and tiiulinj.; none, and niouru our inability to help them. In this phase of suti'ering we meet many of those unfitted by former prosperity and abundant riches to battle wilh the adverse circumstances that are now crushing them. iSeeing this, and in some of the most painful aspects, we are more than ever in earnesj in our desire to have the rich understand the true wisdom of economy themselves, and tlie true love which should educate their daugh- ters to understand and practise the whole science of domestic economy. There is no degradation, but honour in it. A French writer says ; — " The distinctive sign of a high-born woman is shown by what she knows about the kitchen. " There are none so high through weal-l^, but there is a possibility that they may, by business fluctuations or over-confidence in dishonest and designing men, be brought very low, and compelled to seek the simplest occupation and live on the coarsest fare — tiiankful even for that. How important it is, therefore, that early instruction and prac- tice should have taught them how work can be done the easiest and cheapest I And a solid education should have given them that judg- ment which would show them how to make a little go a great way. This kind of education, thoroughly secured while young isnot likely to so fade out of one's mind that it cannot be easily recalled and utilized. If the foundations of tiiese early instructions are based on true and thoroughly economical principle, the descent from a princely income to a few hundred a year, or from a palace to a small tenement, or per- haps one or two rooms, is not half so severe. And if brighter days come after a while, and those who were oblige sufficient, and if not very gray and smoky it will only be needed in the first. After taking the curtains through the tliree waters, many starcli and blue them, and, without any soap or scalding, prepare til stretch them and pin in shape. But we ] iH'fet' to put tiiem into a bag, or coai'se jiillow-case, ami scald in clean soap-suds Unit very strong) for a few minutes. Tlic suds should be made of very pure soap, and the water, when they are first put in, (iiily tepid ; then just bring to a boiling htat. While the cifl'tains are scalding prepare two tubs of 3lean water —one to rinse the curtains when they are taken from the boiler, and the other for the last rinsing. This should 1k' liliied ; and the starch requires to be blued (jiiitc deeply, as, when hung up against the light, lac« does not show it. The blued water and starch should be strained, that nr mote of blueing may escape to settle on th« curtains. Take the curtains from the boiler wher slightly scalded, rinse thoroughly, but witl a gentle hand, till all the suds are out, ther S(iueeze out, v^d put through the blueing water, squeeze from that, and prepare tc stretch and pin out smoothly to the origina length and width. This must be done wher just taken from the water, as lace cannot b< stretched when diy. The whole process of washing, scalding, rinsing, and stretching should be done as expeditiously as consisteni with thorough work, for no other cotton ma.- terial shrinks so easily. Many pin a clean sheet on to a carpet, in- an unoccupied, airy room, and pin the cur- tains on to the sheet. Every point and scal- lop should be pulled out and pinned on tc the she«t evenly. But that is a very hard way for any one who finds stooping and; bending-over painful: and we don'D think the lace looks as clear, because when pinned on to a carpet there can be no free circula- tion of air from underneath. It is easier, and in every way better, to keep on hand four strips of thin boards, abftut tnree inches wide, made very similar to quilting-frames, with holes at suitable distances, to increase or diminish the length and breadth to suit the size of the curtains, and strong wooden pins put through the holes to fasten the frames firmly together. Tack closely, strips of cloth, selvaste edge out, or wide tayie, the whole length of the bars. Then place them on chairs so that they will stand firm and steady — out-doors, if a still, bright, sunny day — and pin or baste the curtains to the tape, pulling out and fastening every point in the lace. Before wetting the curtains do not forget to measure th jm in length and breadth, and mark the measure on the frame they are to be dried on. When washed they must be fastened at ])othends first, and then stretched to match this hieasure. It takes but a little time to dry curtains thus stretched in the sun, and if well rinsed, free from soap, sev- eral curtains may be stretched out at the same time. This is a great saving of time ; though we always fear the lace will not look as clear as if dried separately. But we have never tried that way. We, however, hear it approved by those who have. instead of nailing tape or strips of cloth to the "frame, " small-sized galvanized tenter- hooks are often driven into the frame on all four sides, and the lace or muslin ( urtaius are caught on to these hooks ard thus stretched out to dry. We do not Tke thi« so wtill as basting the curtains to the tape. 88 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. ??i Wo fancy the lace will be more injured on th« huolcB than it could be if sewed on. Lace ahould never be iioned. It costs but very little to make these barg, and they will last a lifetime if carefully put away when not in ii.se ; and the curtains can be made to look le as at a fas.iiort- able party ; and it is tliese things which we greatly desire co see recognized and carried out in every phase of society. There are some who insist that when a plate is sent to be replenished the knife and fork must lie laid together on the plate. But Vfe are happy to say that idea is being gene- rally discarded. If the plate is passed thus encumbered it would be a marvel, even with the best trained servants, if accidents did not often occur, and usually under the most mortifying circumstances. A quick move- ment of the arm, which just touches the waiter's as the plate is taken, would most likely send a greasy kni^e or fork off the plate into a lady's lap, or against a gentle- man's coat. The knife and fork should be taken from the plate when it is passed, and either held in the hand, or laid down witli the tips resting on the solitaire butter-plate or apiece of bread. This is less awakward and much more convenient than holding them in the liaud. When the plate is no longer needed, lay the knife and foik on it together, with the handles tuined the same way, and the points of the fork laid downward. Little mistakes and occasionally a trouble- some accident occur at the tkble sometimes, particularly where there are guests, either through carelessness or diffidence on the part of the host or guest, and th<^y are often of the most embarrassing nature. But for tlie sake of all concerned it is l>est to meet such infelicities with quiet dignity and self-pos- session. The more awkward and mortifying the accident, the greater need of calnuiess --not indirt'erence. Pass your own part of the trouble oft' with a smile, but let all the feel- ing which will find utterance be shown in the kindest nianner to the one causing the accident, or the one who suffers tlie most by it, if otiier than yourself. If the accident occurred through the caielessness of host or hostess, or stupidity or ignorance of the waiter, continual reference to it and apo- logies for it only keep the matter before the mind and enhance the evil. If one of the guests is the sufferer, common kindness and sympathy for the culprit will lead him to pass the matter over lightly or with but a few quiet words, sufficient to lessen the em- barnissnient the host and hostess must feel. We once saw a ])late of soup poured across the sleeve and skirt of an elegant dress, as one next to the lady inadvertently raised his arm just as the waiter waa removing the plate. The hostess, for the moment, lost her self-possession, and greatly disturbed, hastened, with many exclanu\tions, to assist tiie waiter to remedy what in a calmer mo- ment she would have seen was past help. But the owner of the dress with a quiet smile begged the hostess to be seated, gently requesting the waiter to resume his work, and taking her napkin, wiped off what she could without disturbing her neighbours ; then, drawing a light shawl over the dress a."" if notning had gone amiss, resumed the con- versation which had been interrupted. Quiet self-pcjssession under such circumstances is not hypocrisy, but a kind and proper regard for the comfort of others. Smacking the lips when eating and mak- ing needless and unpleasant sounds with the moutli at the table are contrary to all rules, and exceedingly ill-bred and disagreeable. It is ill-mannered anywiiere, but at the table so offensive as to destroy all comfort. Reaching across the table, helping one's self with one's own knife and fork, are aniong the improprieties that can hardly be excused in good society. Adjusting the hair, cleaning or cutting tlie nails, spitting, blowing the nose, are all very objectionable in company — but far more vulgar at the table than anywhere else. Whispering at the table or in company is offensive — disrespectful alike to the host and hostess and their guests, if there arc any. Let the conversation be general, and .as far as possible of a nature to interest all. If from the forced seclusion incident to ill- ! re I 1. fill Wl tul Jl;i inl bel ur ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. m- iieet such 8elt-po8- ifying the mesa— not irt of tho II the feel- sliown in lusing the le most l>y I accident of host or ice of the ; and apo- before the one of tho idness ami lead him to •with but a sen the eni- nnist feel, lured across lit dress, as y raised his. jmoving the inient, lost disturbed, IS, to assist , calmer mo- i past help, irith a quiet sated, gently i his work, )ff what she neighbours -, the ilress as ned the con- ipted. Quiet umstances is •roper reganl Ing and mak- nds with the to all rules. disagreeable. but at the all comfort. helping ones ud fork, are ian hardly be or cutting the Tiose, are all any — but far lau anywhere in company is to the host if there are general, and to interest all- icident to ill- health, or from natural diffidence, one is dis- inclined to bear a part in the conversation, it is but allowing suitable respect to tlrose who are talking to be at least an attentive listener. It is rude to sit silent, if oiw does not by an attentive manner show that the <;onversation is followed -and fully appre- ciated. Yawning anf >.!{ '. . POOR COFFEE. The poor coffee found in hotels and restau- rants is a subject of universal complaint. When one is travelling for a few months' plea- .sure it is not so hard to be suitably patient under the infliction, because the interest awak- ened by novel scenes, or works of art, is so al>8orbing that temporary table discomforts are easily forgotten in constant sight-seeing. Besides, the days are passing rapidly, and soon the pleasm-e-seekers turn their faces homeward and find there more abiding plea- sures and more solid comforts than can be secureil when rushing from place to place under the most favourable circumstances. Once more seated at the home table,, with a gf)od .'louest cup of coffee before them, they begin to realize how much they have en- dured in their pursuit of happiness outside of home. But it frequent home, and w"ho are obliged to depend on hotels and restaurants of every style, who liave the greatest cause for complaint, and have a right to a sympathy which should be active in efforts to remedy the evil. The miserable stuff set before a weary man, and called coffee, is such a disappointment that one cannot won.ler if complaints of this nuisance are. o/ten made in strong and indig- nant languag'j. Many men find nothing so restful and refreshing as a real good cup of coffee after a long, hard day's ride. To lose that, and find in its place a wretched, muddy, un- wholesome-looking compound is provoking to the last degree, Ixjcause home experience has taught them that it is an unnecessary infliction ; and, when at times they are tried beyond all patience, who shall say they are unjust if they call it a downright fraud ? Not long since we heard one of this much- enduring class of people, when speaking of t!ie vile stuff which is so often served out to weary travellers, make some very emphatic remarks, and lor once in our life — and the only time — we did wish we could avail ourselves of the services of a reporter. Like many other things they are very plen- tiful when not needed, but nowhere to be is those whose business compels or long-continued absence from found when one could make them useful. \Ve should lie most happy could we repeat correctly the substance of thwse remarks for the ln'iiefit of those entertaining strangers, niigiit jjcrhaps, for tlieir detestable coffee, find them.-ielves h(jnoiired with the company of "angels unawares." But those remarks were designed to sliow h(nv easdy any deviation from real honesty in making coffee can be detected. For some things the tongue, eyes and no»e are the best detectives in the world. No one can mix rye, chiccory, or barley, with coffee, however good the real article may be, and fiom that compound furnish a beverage that Mill beguile a true coffee-lover into the be- lief that lie has the pure article. The taste will detect the fraud if tiie smell does not, and both together are not easily out- witted. Take a cup of tlie best coffee, freshly roasted and ground, and mix with it the smallest quantity of -stale coffee that has been cooked and set aside, and the eye will discover the i/flposition, even if taste and smell are at fault; for the moment milk or cream is added the coffee becomes of a dark, disagreeable, bluish colour, not pleasant to the eye, and very unpalatable to the taste. Judging through the taste and smell, one can easily imagine how much of the coffee found at the restaurant is made. In the morning the first trains that stop "ten min- utes for refreshments" have the best coffee that will be provided during the entire day. For one cannot be so uncharitable as to sup- pose that in the morning the coffee boilers are not all emptied, at least, and, we would fain hope, well washed and faithfully scalded. Then, if the coffee is of good quality and generous in quantity ; if it is freshly roa.sted, without scorching, and ground ; if the cof- fee-pot is hot when the coffee is p^' in ; if the water is boiling — bubbling hot, when poured on to the coflfee, and not poured over till within fifteen minutes of the train's ar- rival ; and if the coffee is allowed to boil up only two or three times, and is then set back on the range where it will gently sim- mer till the train is within whistling dis- tance, and then set off on one side to settle a minute — then the passengers on the morn- ing train can hardly fail to have good coffee. But by the time the next train is due, what prospects have they for a decent cup of cof- fee ? And the next, and the next, till the Ikst one which stops for refreshment has passed by ? Fresh coffee may be added forevery an-ival, but how many lames have the boilers Iwen emptied and tlioroughly washed and scalded 00 ALL AROUND THE HOUSK. before adding new coffee ? Probably not once ; but, as no guests will have time, even if they had oj)portunity or inclination, to note the process of concocting it, none can declare positively that fresli coffee is mixed \\ it!) that which is prepared in the morning witliout throwing away the old and seven times steeped dregs. On'y when the boiler is too full of these dregs to hold any more can one, judging by taste and smell, believe that they have not been emptied since morn- ing. But, although silent, the passengers no doubt before nigiit have very decided impres- sions that they nave not had their money's worth of coffee, however inviting the oth^r provisions may have been. The eye detects at once, by the dirty bluish colour, that the old stale Doff'ce has remained in the boiler all day. Tlie taste and smell also give sat- isfactory evidence that this must be true. So the passengers on late trains pay t«n cents for a cup ot i^ioflee tliat has stood and soaked all day ; and those who received it fresh and palatable in the morning paid no more. Is this honest ? To be sure, iinlike most evils, there is one pleasure gained by this discomfort. Let one who haw had such experience go home, and, as he sits over his fragrant coffee, say, " VVell, there surely is no place like home, and no coffee as good as my wife's ;" and, if the happy smile tliat acknowledges his ap- proval does not go a great way toward com- pensating for the day's discom.ort, we think he deserves poor coffee till he has learned to translate and appreciate all that smile was meant to convey. He could have Woiiglit no present that could make his wife so happy. Moral, Gentlemen : Once in a while — it will do no harm if it happens often — let your V ives kmw by look and word that you ap- preciate t^fcir etfijrts to make your homes the . happiest and most comfortable spots in the world. It will not cost you as much as a silk dress, or an elegant present, and M'ill be V orth to a loving heart much more. And thus you see our advice is true economy, if nothing better. To make good coffee, there are a few things tiiat must be always rememl)ered. Be sure that the coffee is the best that can be had. No one can make good coffee out of a poor article. Pick over the berries be- fore roasting, making sure that no imperfect kernel slips in unawares, and then put them in a large coarse cloth and rub them to re- move all dirt or dust, but never wash them. Do not buy your coffee ready roasted, or send it to be roasted, but do it yourself or see that it is carefully done under your eye. Set the roaster or pan into the oven with the door open till the coffee is well heated throngh, but not browned at all. Then set tlie roaster or pan over the fire, and stir con- stantly till every berry is of a clear, rich brown. This done, put in a bit of butter, the size to be determined by tlie (juantity of coffee roasted at one time. Stir it well, and M'hen cool put the coffee into an air-tight box if more is roasted than is used at one time. But one is not as sure of the most perfect coffee unless it is roasted every morn- ing, ground hot and made immediately after. Having seen that the boiler is perfectly clean, scald it in boiling water, and let it dry while grinding the ireslily-roasted coffee. As soon as ground put it into the dry boiler ; let it stand on the side of the range till quite hot, then throw in an egg-shell, pour on the boiling water, stir the whole together, cover closely, and set over a quick fire till it boils ; but leave it over a hot fire but a minute or two after it boil^, then set it back where it can simmer or boil gently for a few minutes — not more tluui ten — then pour out a little into a cup, to be sure that no graiijc are in the spout, and pour it back again — leave a moment to settle, and send to tiie table fresh and hot. ■ Many put a few spoonfuls of cold water to the coffee and beat it up to a paste l)efore putting it into the boiler. We do not think the coffee is so good for it. Some break in. an egg, or part of one, beat it into the coffee, and then pour on boiling water. But it binds the coffee into a ball, and much of the aroma is lost, and the full strength not as readily extracted. We think the shell alone is quite sufficient to settle the coffee, and a real coffee-lover will like it better without the egg. In the French filterers or coffee-pots no settling is needed, but many do not like the flavour of coffee made in them po well as that mat like the ell as that ITS. • ' ' •: . short and delicate tains from ous items but young ih tilings, efore mar- ;o insigniti- ge, the mi- at value aa ponsibility ; more and ranee every nth a cloud of witnectses to the truth of tliia statement in the form of a niultitudo of re(jueats for aid, lor rules or infalhbli! remedies. Seeing the evil etlects of their early indifference they are in danger of rusliing to the opposite ex- treme, and listen to a dozen different and futiiely opposite directions for accomplish- ing tlie same thing They try all things, but prove none, and are discouraged. We would suggest the importance of mak- ing a deliberate and thorough trial of each direction before yielding to disconragement. "Frovb all things." " If at first you don't succeed" be not disheartened. Many rules and regulatiims seem hard and incomprehen- i^il)le to those who, entering upon new (hities, have never been taught to bring good common-sense and clear judgment into tlie minute details of every-day life. Re- member that it is wise to prove each rule, receipt or direction thorougldy before ac- cepting it as infallible, or discarding it as worthless. It is folly to reject that which dues not bring the desired result on tlie first trial. Some persons who have never been accus- tomed to work methodically find it hard to carry out any rule precisely as given. Tliey guess at rather than weigli or measure any- thing correctly, and the result is that their \v(jrk is full of mistakes and failures. In such cases they find it easier, and certainly less annoying to their priile, to put tlie blame of the misfortune on the advice or di- rections they made a pretence of following lather than acknowledge their own igiio- nuice and folly. Many rules, when first suggested, will ap- pear absurd. For instance, it we tell our i aders that they can economize in the use ot soap by substituting milk in its place for many purposes, and find much comfort and Lduvenience in the change, who will believe it '.' We did not when we first heard of it. Jiut first have your laugh then give this tiieiry a f.vir trial. You will only laugh for joy after that. Many troubles and disappointments arise from the erroneous idea that verbal direc- tions, and the teachings of good recipe- li loks are all that is needed to make any mic a good cook ; and also in part from the habit of charging many failures to false di- rections and untrustworthy recipes. There are, doubtless, now and then mistakes in b ith, and some cook-books are prepared by those wliose knowledge is gained by observa- tion, and not by the work having been donej hy the compiler's own hands. Such works are not safe guides to trie young and inex- [lerienced. To follow them implicitly with- i;ut the guidance of good judgment and prac- tical knowledge is sure to result in failure and discouragement. We are inclined to tliink that the troubles often so piUsously re- lated come upon the young by trusting to false guides. It is not wise to go to a book-store and simply ask for a "Cook- Book." 1 We have read directions or receipts in I some of these " Guides " at wh ch an ex- perienced housekeeper would be dumb with ama/.ement ; and yet in many respects the book was excellent. But the compiler, ignorant herself of how the work should be done, had listened to some receipt given verbally, and in writing it out mistook either quantity or material, and in all sincerity I)ublished it without dreaming of its ridicu- ous impossibility. For instance, we give part of a receipt found in what is oiten quoted as an excellent cook-book : " Take half a pint of arrow-root, make it into a thin paste by stirring in half a tea-cup of milk," etc., etc. It seems impossible, as some ladies would say, that "even a man " should not know that the quantity of arrow- root given could not be moistened by that quantity of milk, and yet similar errors are common In much that is {)ut before the pub- lic as perfectly trustworthy. " Prove all things, and hold fast to that which is good," is sound advice; but in cooking — if nowhere else before the thing to be proved is acted upon — it is well to be very sure that tlie directions are correct, and that your own judgment in following tiieni is not at fault. Something more than the best of recipes is neeiled to make anj one a thorough cook. Be patient and persevering, remembering that steady practice and an earnest desire to succeed are indifpeusable in this department as well as in every separate division of house- hold labour. United to these, the ability to vary somewhat the primary directions will often be equally necessary, reijuiring the good sense and correct judgment which .should have been partially developed and strengthened in girlhood, but which need not in any wise have infringed upon those hours spent in study which young lu>usekeepera are now so ready to feel were misspent and wasted. Not so. Tliose hours should have made them stronger, better pre- pared to conquer all the difficulties that now disturb and perplex. In cooking it sometimes happens that a special ingredient is needed, a?^'l the want of it is not discovered until the foo*! to be pre- pared is too far under way to make a change in the bill of fare for that day at all con- venient or easy. To be sure, it was a mis- tiike to have begun the work before all the m IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) V ^ ^ {/ :/ ^ ^dM "^'A 1.0 I.I Mi ii |2.5 11 20 1.8 1.25 1.4 1.6 -* 6" — ► ^ ^ % /A / / y Photographic Sciences Corporation ?3 WEST MAIN STMtT WEBSTER. NY I4S80 (7161 872-4S03 i^ :n<|ucr ditficultieH and release one's self successfully from nuuiy unpleasant dilem- mas. In the new cases that will arise icery often, certain ircueral iiistnictionB must be well un- rove at all satisfactory if tried by another lanil. We know a Western housekeeper whose *' com i>any cooking" was never intrusted to any hand out her own. '* Every-day fixin's' were of little consequence. Her brea{htcst, yet always retaining the sweet, natural taste of pure wheat — never sour, never overdone or slack-ltaked ; her pies sweeteneil and flavoured "so as not to mix tastsa not well joined ;" yet, judgini; from her remarks, she never paid mu(;h at- tention to recipes, having only a vagtie idea of how other cooks managed. She never weighed or measured anything, and never was abla to giv« any distinct impression of her mode of procedure. No one could follow her attempts at giving a rule or recipe, or in any degree approximate that which sprang from her magic touch. These self-taught or instinctive cooks and housekeeperu are htiA teacliers for young peo- ple. They never give an intelligible reason ; they really never give much thought to their work, it comes to them, or, as this woman said, "I just throw things together, aud somehow — 'why, they maJie themselves, I thinkr When I begin I never have any clear idea of what will be the result ; only I feel pretty sure it will be good." These house- liohl geiiiuees can no more tell how or why than prtfcocious l>aby sinirers or wonderful boy musicians can tell why they can catch a tune, or touch, untaught, the right keys oo the piano. CEILING AND OIL-CLOTHS. A correspondent writes : "I have found a gooil way to prevent ceiling from coming down in caso a leak admits water to the plastering, and under circumstances whioli prevent immediate measure for repairing the roof. I And where the water comes through, by wiping the ceiling if necessary ; I then lx>re a hole up into the pool tlmt is standing and soaking on the upiter side of the plaster. By putting a nail or match up into the hole so as to serve as a gutter or lea4ler, the water will run otf in a stream, and the phisterin^ thus drained does not soften enough to fall, or even loosen. I have given this methoii a pretty fair trial, for I have twice haail results. WathiiiffOil-clotht. — There is much com- plaint oi the poor quality of the oil- cloths of the present time, " Why ! my mother's < il-cloths never lost colour or wore out ; but mine are so poor and the colour ho bad that i am quite discouraged'" Let UH ask a simple question or two. Who washed your mother's oil-cloths, and how ? Who takes care «>f yours, and do you know how it is duue .' We imagine we see where the trouble lies in part, though we confess we do not think ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. «S eMion of lid follow -ecipe, or oh sprang ooks aiid jung peo- e reaaou; it to their iH woman her, aud tnelves, I aiiy clear y I feel ■e houBo- or why wonderful III catch a keys oa HS. « re found a cnuihig er to the ice* whioli miring the H through, ; I then B standing he plaMtur. ) the hole the water pliuiterinv; igh to fall, i niethoil a had, in pe- ich spigots ng Htreams night, and tlie ceil- )thing but whitening. " o])erati()M roofs were We hav»' ful of )>ad much coni- F the oil- Why ! my »ur or wore le colour ho two. Who and how ? you know irouble lies > not think oiNcloths are as durable as those made 6f- teen or twenty years ago. In "olden times, " whoever did the hard work, the iiiistrcHs t<^>ok goo of water is left to soak in and rot the fabric ; and you Mill have little cause to complain that they take hold so much faster than your mother's — provided you select cloths of good make. After wash- ing and drying, ifa cloth is wrung out of a dish of skun-milk and water, and the oil- cloth is rubbed over with this and again well dried, the freshness and the lustre of tiie cloth will repay the extra lalioar IF YOU HAVE A WILL, YOU WILL FIND A WAY. We quote from "Every Day's Need" for the doiible purpose of giving some good recipes and timtly suggestions to young people, many of whom are but just learning MOW much anxiety their parents are passing through under the present financial troubles, and are, we trust, tag r to help in every possible way, even thotiuh they may succeed (inly through self-deniar \oung ladies would greatly decrease family expenses if they could be induced to give ^alf the time to important and verj' necessary plain sewinu. that is now devoted to fancy work. The latter work is pleasant and ornamental, and, if no important home duty is neglected, not at all objectionable. But one naturally asks how many dolUrs a year a young la«.ly oould save by doing all her plain sewing, instead of fancy work, and experience no injury thereby. Half the time and eyesight used over embroid'ery and elalH»rate imitation of grotesque Cnine8»» work, would secure a larffc assortment of indispensable garments If we could not have both, we wouhl be sure that all our under-garn.6nts were neatly made and daintily trimmed, even if to secure this w« were obiigetl to have dresses and overwraps substantially but not elaborately made. W^e could easily dispense with ruffles, flounces, or plaiting for the purpose of add- ing to the elegance of the underwear. But even that is a matter of fancy, also to be dispensed with if necessary. When young girls have become expert in cutting and making every description of uudcrclothing, it is then desirable that they try some experiments in making over aud re- modelling their own dresses. Let thorn be^n on some worn article of little value, which will be no peat loss if the first attempt t)rove a failure. A few trials will make it ess difficult, and after a few more, the work will become easy, if not agreeable. We knew a vouns girl, naturally obsefv- ing, who, when dressmaking was done in the family, by carefully noticing the way the dressmaker measured, fitted, out, and basted, began to think it not a bad idea to attempt to make her own dresses. She made some mistakes at first, but was not discouraged, and very soon become quite ex- pert. Sine had no thought of ever attempt- ing dressmaking for others. But times wrought changes by which it 1)ecame important that she should seek more remunerative employment than she was then engaged in, so that she might better minis- ter to the necessities of thone depending on her ; and she l>ethought her that, through the influence of friends, she might turn what she had gained by observation to some profit. At first die went into a few families simply to assist tlieir regular dressmaker. Little by littL- she gained the confidence of those wlio noticed Tier great aptness for this occu- pation, and was often employed to fit and make children's clothes. Front that she soon advanced another step, and went into a fashionable dresHinaker'i es- tablishment to work as an assistant. In less than two years she secured some of the most ers, and thus built up a business. Why have wc told this? Because, as " riches sometimes take to tiiemselves u iugs and fly away "abruptly, we think it might be wise tor those who now "dress in rich attire and silver have to spare" to amuse them- selves in their days of pr(>s]K]rity with some useful employment now and then. If their prosperity is builded on a rock, this know- ledge will do them no harm ; but if the foundation is laid in the sand, then when the storm coinss uponthcm,and their wealth rented rooms and fastidious custom- fine remunerative M ALL \ROUND THE HOUSE. f f 'I is ewopt away past recall, thev can draw upon thJH knowledge and be able to secure at leant the comforts of life even if they may not regain their former abundance. We liavc seen many manuals to teach dressniakinu at home — some by measure, some by dcnnito rule* for fitting- and now we learn that Mrs. L. L. •lackson.of Indiana- poliH, who furnished Komu time since a "Family Dreas (Juidc, "lia» prepared and is about to publish an oriifinal method of teach- ing the art of dressmaking, by original dia- grammio dolineationH of garments in minia- ture, which she entitles " The Science and Geometry of 1 >res8. " She has designed a 'd arranged this book " for private tuition, for dressmakers, and lor laaies generally ; " but wliat chiefly at- ' tracts our attention and has our Iiighestconi- mendation, is the fact that Mm Jackson is «ndeavouring to have licr "CJuide" introduced into our public and free schools, giving girls , fewer books to «lige»t every (juarter, and teaching them, aa aii important part of prac- tical and genteel education, how to use . their fingers most efficiently, instead of compelling their brains to carry all the bur- ' den. We have schools where girls are taught all the manual labour that belongs to a thorough knowledge of household economy, without ' lowering their social position ; and now, if | the "Science and (leometry of Dress," in- cluding instruction in the art of designing, drafting, anai)ie of, and her employer Ix-gins to feel that she may now rest, deiMMiding almost entirely on her scho- lar for all care and oversight, Maggie comes shyly to give notice that she's " al>out to lie married," and niu«t leave her employer us soon as she can find another girl. It is well if, after all, the damsel lias not already tiiken the irrevocable step and dues not leave on •hort notice. Now, having been so carefully instructed, how will she rule her own household ? TIiom; who have seen her success as u servant will naturally think she can be held up as m\ example to all her companions. Hut it is seldom that these expectations are rcali/.ed. Frequently those points wherein she most excelled as a servant will be those where she will most signally fail in married life. In service she was thought neat, careful, and metliodic.ll, and no doubt she was 40. She was all that could be desired for the position in which hor labours were then reouncd. Bmestic affairs seems to have vanished. Strange that it should l)e so. She was well aware that her husbaiul could not afford the little niceties and conveniences she \\.\\ enjoyed in her mistress's house. She knew that a labouring man or a mechanic, howe\ cr industrious or prosperous, could not furnish the same quantity or quality of material for their food as she always found in the pantries and store closets which she had once under her care. Before leaving her father's cabin in the old country, to be sure, she had seen only bixre walls, uncarpeted floors, scanty supplies of food, and that of the coarsest and cheapest ; but that was in her early child-life. Her mother's close economy, or the misery that must have followed the neglect of such need- ful care and industry, was a thing of the past, all memory of which vanished with her childhood ; and ftir years she had lived where everything was of the best, and plentifully provi«lcd. The change from sucli a mode of life to that which now, through her marriage, she has accep*^ ', ia i\» marked and strange, as far as fo iiid rurnishi'm are concerned, as it woulo i»%ve been for Vev mistress's daughter. This good servant knew nothing of house- ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. OS TOUSE. sftch her niuiiagt'- A. Aiul itttakiii^, ttiriett of B uf, and may now ler Sche- ie conies )ut to 1o vant will up a-H iui Hut it is ! iTali/x'il. hHu most rt'here she life, la x'ful. aiitl \ ao. Slie e pnuition niictl. girl was maiiauiiig viuiisiictl. \va» well itfonl tlio ic hill le kuew huwe\<.r ; funiisli it*rial for patitrics jee under in the old only Hare >plie8 of eapcat ; fe. Her sery that uch ueed- ng of the with her a«l lived OBt, and nmi sucti rough her marked urnisliiMu n for lev of house- keeping but what she had AO«iuired iu her ♦mployer's aboile. When *' in service" every- thing was provided for her use. She had no buying, no bilU to pay, and no idea of what the elaborate and genteel cooking she wm called upon to do had cost. And tliis ex- pense was perfectly proper in her mistress'H position, but utterly lieyond what she cuuM afford iii<4ier husliand's house. 8Ue had seen (irovisions purchased in large quantities — not >y the pound. She had i)ecii traiiieii to make everything as nice and gooaneated fail- ures discourage her, and her efforts relax. She looks luiOK witii strange longings to the " Hesli-pots of Kgypt, " and at last Imscouics careless in her person and aWut her house, negligent in preparing her meals, ami indo- lent and fretful when her husband comes home. In the early days the husband grieves that he cannot give her all she deems neee done in the best manner, these girls, of necessity, ac(|uire a mode of perform- lug it which inakea it very difficult for them to change when placed in entirely dissimilar cin-umstanccs. The young men, also, who go out to ser- vice in gentlemen's families as waiters, coach- men, gardeners, or in any (Kwition that gives them their meals in their employer's house, liecome accustomed to a bill of fare very dif- ferent from that which they must accand may bring home eveiy Saturday night, or what the wife receives for wasiiing and ironing or sewing. If he is iiulustrious and receives good wages, and she is willing to work steady without " pri- vileges," or the "half day out" that sho hatl when in service, they manage to keep the wolf from the door unless sickness, acci- dents, or chihlren make too heavy drafts on the small purse. If this class of our population could be made to save a small portion of their wages every week before their marriage, their pros- Sects for the future would be brighter. A eposit in the savings bank, if but of a few pennies every pay-day, could easily be made by every man and woman while unmarried, if willing to deny themselves a few frolics and much extravagance in dress. But as a class they lit«!rally obey the precept : ^'Tak« no thouglit for the morrow. Among the Catholics their chnwh fees are a heavy drain upon their wages, and the mystery is how, if strictly honest, our serv- ing girls can pay these large fees and spend ■o nmoli on dress. They are such eager devotees of fashion, that it retjuires keen eyes to distinguish across the street the mil- lionaire from her cook, as far as dress is concerned ; indeed, the latter is often the more heavily laden with flounces, fringes, feathers, or other absurdities of fashion. Once in a great while we find a girl who mw> '"! 06 ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. i.. s will save something weekly, but tliese are rare cases. Must these girls then always live at ser- vice — looking forward to no other home than their employer's house, no other fsompanion- ship than what thvy find among their fellow- servautB, or marry, only to bring upon them- Hclves many discomforts, severe trials, or abject poverty? I'his shouhl not be so; but how can our ladies not only teach their servants how to work acceptably for those who have plenty, bitt also give tliem lessons which will prepare them to be able and con- tent to live comfortably upon small in- comes ? This is a difiicult lesson for the mistress to teach — a still harder one for the servant to practise. " Oh, what can I do at all . " said one newly married. " I am sure I don't know how to manage. I keep forgetting that I haven't a wlioie barrel of flour, or sugar, or a tub of butter to go to when I please, and .1 run to the groelong8 to each department of household labour — not only to understand how the work should be done, but to step to the front and do it with their own hands in an emergency, or for their own pleasure. Many of the stumbling-blocks that dis- hearten a l>eginner spring from ignorance of cooking and want of judgment in selecting materials, quite as much as from inability to combine these articlee properly, ami use them without needless lanour. In tlie first plaoe, oar "young and sorely- tried friend" should bear in mintithat in most things it is, in the end, true eoonomy to buy the best, and nowhere is this so true as in the purchase of articles of food ; antl of ail such material flour and butter should be se- leete