/ . -^.I .'' 1 \ /'■ ' . ; '■ ' ''.'• *^''"^v. ■"^w <»'-'<4*^^ MRS. JOHN A. LOGAN. HOME MANUAL EVKRYBODY'S AND BUSINESS LIFE. A TREASURY OK Useful Information for the Million. THE CONTENTS OF ONE HUNDRED BOOKS IN A SINGLE VOLUME. TOUCHES TEN THOUSAND TOPICS. ETIQUETTE, HYGIENE, HOUSEHOLD ECONOMY, BEAUTY, METHODS OF MONEY-MAKING, CARE OF CHILDREN, NURSING OF INVALIDS, OUTDOOR SPORTS, INDOOR GAMES, FANCY WORK, HOME DECORATION, BUSINESS, CIVIL SERVICE, HISTORY, GEOGRAPHY, PHYSIOLOGY, WRITING FOR THE PRESS, TEACHING, ITALIAN ART, ETC., ETC. PREPARED BY Mrs. JOHN A. LOGAN, ASSISTED BY "^ Prof. WILLIAM MATHEWS, CATHERINE OWEN and WILL CARLICTON. EXPERTS IN EACH DEPART^/IE^lX ONLY SOLD BY SUBSCRIPTION. H. J. SMITH & CO., Chicago, III. Philadelphia, Pa. Kansas City, M(j. Oakland, Cal. COPYRIGHT 18S9. Frank E. Wright. All Rights Reserved. LIST OF SUBJECTS. 1 AGE. I. Good Form 2 II. Weddings 29 III. Society Small Talk 42 IV. Answers to Questions 54 V. Etiquette of Washington 76 VI. The Ladies of the White House. 91 VII. Arlington 93 VIIL Soldiers' Home 96 IX. Out-Door Sports .100 X. Children's Pastimes 131 XL How to be Beautiful 138 XII. How to Make Children Healthy, Beautiful and Graceful ........ 161 XIII. Diet of Invalids 170 XIV. Portable Lunches 180 XV. Preservation of the Sight 189 PAsa. XVI. What to do While Waiting for the Doctor 193 XVIL The Mother's Medicine Chest. 216 XVIII. Care and Food of Infants. . , .225 XIX. Diseases of Children 236 XX. Childish Diseases 250 XXI. The House Beautiful 264 XXII. Hints for the Household. . . .279 XXIII. Miscellaneous 291 XXIV. Howto Write for the Press.. 339 XXV. Gems of Poetry 373 XXVI. Child's Guide to Knowledge . 409 XXVII. loo Questions on General His- tory 422 XXVIII. Book of Thoughts 432 XXIX. Birthday Book 448 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. PAGE Presentation Page. Frontispiece, Mrs. John A. Logan. Interior of Church 36 Mrs. Gladstone 43 Hon. W. E. Gladstone 44 Mrs. Grover Cleveland 48 Miss Ames 49 Mrs. Benjamin Harrison 80 The White House 81 Chief Justice Melville W. Fuller 83 Mrs. John Wanamakcr 84 Mrs. Thomas B. Reed 84 Mrs. Jeremiah Rusk 84 Mrs. John W. Noble 84 j Mrs. Levi P. Morton 88 Ladies of tlie White House y i PAGB Main Entrance of Arlington 93 Arlington Mansion 94 Statue of General Scott 96 Soldiers' Home 96 The President's Summer Home 97 View in the Park of Soldiers' Home .... 98 Lawn Tenuis Court ... ... - 99 Prize Winner in Beauty Show at Spa. . . 150 Baby 160 Looking for Papa 224 Christmas Decorations in the House. ...272 Home Comfort 278 The IvifTcl Tower 296 Bouvardias 336 Angel 431 TABLE OF CONTENTS. GOOD FORM. Etiquktte of : — Entertainments 2 Dinners 5 Teas and Afternoon Receptions 7 Luncheons 7 Cards and Calls 9 Kules for Leaving Cards 10 Invitations 13 Mourning 16 Letter- writing 18 Speech 19 Family Life 21 Shopping 22 The Street 22 Horse Cars 23 Business 24 Traveling 25 The Table 26 The Club 27 WEDDINGS. Invitations 29 Church. 35 Home 38 Anniversary 39 SOCIETY SMALL TALK. What to Say and When to Say it. 42 Chats at — An Afternoon Tea 47 A Dinner Party 47 A Musicale 49 A Reception 49 A Ball 51 ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS. Calls 54 At Table .55 Dress 56 Introductions 58 Gifts 59 Engagements 60 Mourning 61 ii Weddings 62 Miscellaneous > 65 ETIQUETTE OF WASHINGTON. Etiquette and Entertainments in Washington 76 Etiquette of Washington Society. . . 82 Calls 84 The Season 85 General Receptions 85 Evening Receptions 86 Titles 87 Rank of Cabinet Ministers 87 Saturday Afternoon Receptions 87 Evening Receptions of the President 89 Calls : — On the President at his Office 90 On Cabinet Officers 90 On Senators and Representatives. . . 90 THE LADIES OF THE WHITE HOUSE Sketches and Portraits 91 ARLINGTON. Description and Illustrations. 93 SOLDIERS' HOME. Description and Illustrations 96 OUT-DOOR SPORTS. Exercise : — Essential to Health 100 Archery : — Choice of a how ; points of a good arrow ; some rules for practice. . . 101 Base Ball: — Essentials; implements; technical terms 101 Boating : — Kinds of boats ; some nautical terms ; useful facts 104 Camping Out: — Necessary outfit ; choice of location ; the camp bill-of-fare 116 HOME MANUAL. Ill Croquet : — Its invention ; improvement in its tools • advantages 117 Cycling : — Its gradual development ; different kinds of machines 118 Fishing : — Necessary apparatus ; some favorite fish 118 Gymnastics : — Value of athletic exercise ; calisthen- ics without a teacher 119 HORSEMANSH-IP : — Choice of a horse; equipments; proper dress ; how to mount ; hints as to proper position ; sports for the equestrian 120 Photography (Amateur): — Outfit; some general rules 121 Rifle and Shotgun : — Choice of a weapon ; position ; proper precautions 121 Tbappitjg : — How some traps are made ; treatment of pelts 123 Swimming : — Learning the art ; things to be ob- served and others to be avoided ; how to resuscitate the apparently drowned 123 Tennis : — Some historic devotees ; preparing a court ; a few general hints, dress and the rules of the game 125 Toss :— Directions 130 CHILDREN'S PASTIMES. Out-Door Games foe Children: — Catching the weasel 131 The drill 131 Weaving garlands 132 Little washerwomen 132 The flying feather 132 Blind man's march 133 The beggar 133 The naughty straw man 1 33 Coronella 134 Ik-Door Games: — The seeress 134 Little market women . 135 The comical concert 136 The journey to Jerusalem 136 HOW TO BE BEAUTIFUL. Care of the Complexion, Teeth and Hair: — The complexion 138 The figure 147 Obesity 147 How to gain flesh 149 Development of the chest 150 The teeth 150 Moles and warts 152 Removal of superfluous hair 152 Wrinkles and crow's feet 154 Care of the hair 156 Dyes and restorers 156 Eye-lashes 159 Curling fluid 160 HOW TO MAKE CHILDREN HEAL- THY, BEAUTIFUL AND GRACEFUL. Home gymnastic exercises 164 Sports and occupations 165 Care of complexion, teeth and hair. 166 Childish tricks 168 DIET OF INVALIDS. General directions 170 Drinks : — Barley water 172 Lemonade 172 Toast water 172 Tamarind whey 172 Orgeat 172 Eice water 173 Linseed tea 1 73 General rules for food 173 REUiPEd : — Fish broth 175 Lentil broth 176 Macaroni soup 176 Oyster broth 176 Chicken broth 176 Omelette 177 Racahat 177 Oatmeal jelly .... 177 Chicken panada 177 Chicken jelly 177 IV HOME MANUAL. Broiled sweetbread 178 Oyster toast 178 Milk jelly 178 Orange and lemon jellies 178 Beef ice 178 Hints as to the way and time of giv- ing food 179 PORTABLE LUNCHES. Portable lunches 180 Lobster sandwiches 181 Egg sandwiches 182 Clam sandwiches , 182 Oyster sandwiches 183 Cold fish sandwiches 183 Chocolate sandwiches 184 Cucumber sandwiches 184 Pork pies 185 Melton Mobray pies 185 Veal and ham patties 185 Beefsteak patties 186 Sausage rolls 186 Lobster loaves 187 PRESERVATION OF THE SIGHT. How to read by lamp-light 190 General care of the eyes 191 Care of infants' and children's eyes. 191 Fatigue of the eyes 192 HYGIENE. WHAT TO DO WHILE WAITING FOR THE DOCTOR. Emergencies : — Sufibcation 193 Artificial respiration 194 Drowning 195 Sun-stroke 196 Burns 196 Bites and Stings: — Dogs 197 Snakes 197 Heat exhaustion 197 Lightning stroke 197 Fainting 198 Frost bite f. 198 Dislocation : — Of the jaw 198 Of the neck 198 Of the shoulders 199 Of the fingers 199 Sprains : — Of the fingers and wrist 199 Of the ankle 199 Hemorrhages from Wounds: — Instant treatment of any bleeding wound 200 Of the leg 201 Of the arm 201 Gun-shot wounds 201 Foreign Substances in the Eye 202 Nose 202 Ear 203 Stomach 203 Wind-pipe 203 Hemorrhage of the Nose 203 Lungs 204 Stomach 204 Bowels 204 Internal hemorrhages 204 Accidents Probable on Railroads AND IN Factories: — Shock 205 Trifling injuries 205 Lacerations 205 Crushed fingers and toes 206 Crushed hands and feet 206 Crushed arms or legs 206 Crushes of the chest and lower parts of the body 206 Health hints 206 Poisons and Antidotes. Vegetable Poisons: — Poison oak, ivy, and sumach 207 Deadly nightshade 208 Stramonium or ''jimson weed " . . . . 208 Poke berries and poke root 208 Monk's hood or wolfsbane 209 Hemlock 209 Digitalis 209 Tobacco 210 Arnica 210 Strychnine 211 0|)ium 211 Morphine 211 HOME MANUAL. Laudanum 211 Paregoric 312 MiXERAi, Poisons: — Phosphorus 212 Arsenic 213 Paris green 213 Copper 214 Blue vitriol 214 Mercury 214 Corrosive sublimate 215 Red precipitate 215 Lead 215 Sugar of lead 216 Zinc 216 Antimony — tartar emetic 216 Lunar caustic 216 Miscellaneous : — Iodine 217 Hydrocyanic acid 218 Prussic acid 218 Cyanide of potassium 218 Cyanide of silver 218 Corrosive acids 218 Nitric 182 Muriatic 218 Sulphuric 218 Carbolic acid 219 Oxalic acid 219 Lye — caustic soda 219 Hartshorn 219 Decayed meat 220 THE MOTHER S MEDICINE CHEST. Simple medicines, with directions for their use 221 Care and Food of Infants 225 Directions for the management of the sick-room, and the nursing of chil- dren 232 Complaints in which warm baths are i)eneticial 235 Diseases op Children: — With description of symptoms and directions for treatment 236 Croup 237 Child-crowing 239 Indainmation of the lungs 240 Diplitlicria 243 Diarrhoea 246 Dysentery 247 Shivering fit 249 Measles 250 Scarlet fever 252 How to distinguish, etc 253 Mode of purifying a house 257 Whooping cough 258 Bronchitis 261 Simple remedies for constipation. . . 263 THE HOUSE BEAUTIFUL. Inexpensive D ev i c e s for House Decoration : — . Coffee bag rug 264 Set of furniture 265 Dressing-table 265 Washstand 265 Chairs 265 Bookcase 266 Wardrobe 266 Mantel-piece , 266 Hall-seat 266 Mirrors 267 Window draperies 267 More Costly Ornaments (Illustrated): Photograph frame 267 Tennis racket wall- pocket 268 Bric-a-brac table 268 Scrap basket 268 Duster-bag 269 News-paper holder 269 Chinese lantern work-basket . . 270 Palm-leaf fan wall-pocket 270 Work-stand 270 White and gold seat 270 Pretty Little Conveniences (Illus- trated) :•— Pin-screen 271 Button bags 272 Pacha pincushion 272 Letter holder 273 Jewel case 274 Shoe-button case 274 Necktie case 275 What to do with odds and ends . . . 275 HINTS FOR THE HOUSEHOLD. Thk KIT(•IIE^^ : — Manageruent of coal fires ; useful additions to the ordinary kit(!hen furnishing; practical liints on clean- ing ; care of the sink 279 VI HOME MANUAL. Sweeping and Cleaning: — The best way of preparing a room for being swept; removing ink-stains ; washing windows; recipe for rose potpourri ; proper management and care of lamps 280 Suggestions about servants 282 Care of the spare room 283 Some Ways to Make Home Beauti- ful: — Selection of wall-paper, carpets, etc.; home-made furniture ; window-gar- deninsr, and instructions for starting a fern-pan 284 For the Comfort op the House- hold : — Use of screens ; how to keep butter firm, and water cold without ice ; in- telligent selection of food ; seven golden rules of health 285 To Make Home Pleasant: — Small acts of courtesy ; little pres- ents ; music and amusements 286 The Conclusion of the Whole Matter : — Requisites of the " Home-maker.". . . 286 Pleasant Work for Nimble Fingers 288 Miscellaneous : — Success in life 291 Business with banks 299 Practical business suggestions 301 Business 315 Hints on business matters 317 Put money in thy purse 321 Poor Ricliard's almanac 326 Advice to a young tradesman 330 Civil Service 331 Language of flowers 332 State mottoes 337 Fictitious names of States 337 Fictitious names of cities 338 Signs used by physicians 338 How to tell age 338 HOW TO WRITE FOR THE PRESS. Directions for preparing MS 340 Some perplexing grammatical ques- tions 341 Punctuation marks and rules for their use 343 Brief rules for punctuation 343 Simple rules for spelling 345 Correct use of capitals 346 Clearness of style 347 MISCELLANEOUS. How to Write Clearly. 347 GEMS OF POETRY. Under the Wheel A Bridal Song My Own Sweet Wife The Jewel for the Bridal Day Home, Where There's One to Love Us The Family De Tout Mon Coeur Baby Ten Years , Only Half a Score The Crystal Wedding The Silver Greeting The Silver Wedding Lay Thy Hand in Mine When the Old Pting was New The Pledge.. Fiftieth Anniversary The Old Man to his Wife The Home-Bound Host If We Knew My Mother Tired Mothers Dan's Wife I Love You ... The Ballad of Babie Bell John Anderson my Jo Philip My King To a pair of Slippers in the Egyptian Exhibition On the Shores of Tennessee The Picket-Guard Ships at Sea Carcassonne The Rain Sandalphon Over the River After the Ball What My Love Said When My Ship Went down At the Making of the Hay Good-Bve, God Bless You When Baby was Sick Battle Hymn of the Republic The Baby and the Soldiers When the Frost is on the Punkin. . . Cudd le Doon So She Refused Him ... Laughing in Her Sleep The Norway Sheep Tides Whittier's Centennial Poem Child's Guide to Knowledge 100 Questions on General History.. . BOOK OF THOUGHTS. Series of questions designed for in- struction and amusement BIRTHDAY BOOK. Quotations from the World's great- est writer 373 377 377 378 378 379 379 379 380 380 381 382 382 382 383 383 384 384 385 385 386 3H6 387 387 388 389 389 390 394 395 396 397 397 398 399 400 401 402 403 403 403 404 404 405 405 406 406 407 407 408 409 422 433 448 THIS volume is dedicated to the millions of busy people in this country who have no leisure to ransack libraries and peruse books, to glean the valuable knowledge here presented in a condensed form. The mother bending anxiously over her sick child ; the sportsman who sees his friend fall wounded by his side ; the toilers in factories injured by accident ; the housekeeper to whom economy of time means additional strength and leisure for improvement; the wife anxious to make home beautiful for her husband ; the gay young girl who desires to know the rules that govern the social world, the best means of enhancing her charms, or the latest dainty device in fancy work; the woman whom misfortune has suddenly forced into the crowded ranks of the bread- winners; the youth who wishes to become an expert in out-door sports; the writer uncertain how to prepare MSS; the little ones longing for some new game — all will find the Home Manual a guide, counsellor, and friend, ever ready to aid. Who can tell from M-^hat hours of anxiety its timely assistance may guanl many a household? Neither time nor labor has Ijcen spared in the effort to secure the latest and best authorities in ca(;li department. With the exception of some few pages, the text has been specially written for this volume, which is offered to the j)ublic by its i)ublishers with the certainty that it will receive 3 cordial welcome in all American homes. •'L .^vVy >"^"t"y -A-fi^ w^ -A' 'a CFS9^P lEtiquctte. TIQUETTE may be defined as a code of un- written laws for the protection and comfort of society. Some may sneer at their value, some may possibly lay undue stress upon them; but it will invariably be found that there is a sound and sensible reason, more or less easily discoverable, underlying every rule. It is possible that a few persons may be to- tally indifferent to the good opinion of their fellow-mortals; but many people of refined feelings, "Nature's gentlewomen and gentle- ~' men," have often suffered keen embarrassment and mortification, and been exposed to unkind criticism from a lack of knowledge of some little details of the customs observed among well-bred people. This department of the " Home Manual " is intended to supply, in a condensed form, ample information for the guidance of all who desire to know "just what to do" in the usual routine of business and social intercourse. The compiler has consulted the best authorities on these subjects, and is confident that no one who possesses the book will fail to find clear directions for the settlement of any doubtful points in the routine of daily life. ETIQUETTE OF ENTERTAINMENTS. Dinners. — A dinner party is regarded by many persons as the most formal and, at the same time, the most elegant mode of entertaining guests — • it is certainly the one which most severely taxes the resources of the hostess. Any woman not positively ill-bred can fill the position of hostess at a ball ; but it requires tact, readiness, and a thorough knowledge of society to make a dinner party, in the ordinary parlance, " go oflT well." No mat- ter how exquisite china, glass, floral decorations, silver, and linen may be, if the hostess is a dull or awkward woman, the banquet will not be a success, for a proper selection of guests and the power of drawing them into gay and brilliant conversation is quite as needful as any of the material accessories. 2 HOME MANUAL. 3 Yet while this is the entertainment of all others most dependent upon the individuality of the host and hostess, there are certain fixed rules — as in all social matters — which must be observed, and certain suggestions may be of service. The first point to be regarded is the choice of guests. Invite those who will probably be agreeable to one another, and avoid including many silent or excessively loquacious persons. People who de- sire to monopolize conversation are as objectionable at a dinner party, as those who wrap themselves in the cloak of silence and seem utterly un- conscious that an}' thing more is expected than due attention to the dishes set before them. If the host and hostess sit one at each end of the table, avoid having four, eight, or twelve persons, or any number which can be divided by four, because, in seating the guests, it w411 then be necessary to place two ladies or two gentlemen side by side, a very undesirable arrangement. The hostess should inform each gentleman which lady he is to take in to dinner — or have cards giving this information placed on the hall- table, — and if the gentleman is not acquainted with the lady, he should re- quest his hostess to present him. The host should be the first to go in to dinner, his companion being either the most distinguished or the oldest lady present, the wife of the most eminetit man, a stranger, or a bride. The hostess, on the contrary, should go last ; having for her com- panion the husbatid of the lady whom the host is escorting, if the dinner is given for a married couple. Otherwise her escort should be the most eminent or the oldest gentleman present, or a stranger. The scat of honor — at the host's right hand — should be given to the lady whom he escorts to the dinner, the one on the left being assigned to the lady whose age or position entitles her to the second place. The same rule is observed in seating gentlemen on the right and left of the hostess. A gentleman should draw out a lady's chair and assist her in moving it up to the table again, unless there is a servant to \)ev- fonn this duty. In serving the dishes, the servants should begin upon the right of the master of the house, ending with the hostess, and with the guest on their mistress's right, ending with the host. Never correct a servant in the [jresencc of the guests; if mistakes occur, seem to be unconscious of them. Give the clearest possible instruc- tions ill iidvaiKM', and unless s(!rvants are l)oth stupid and ignorant, there will bu little four of any serious mishap. One waiter to each four persons— 4 HOME MANUAL. if there is a butler to do the carving — is sufficient ; and if really well- trained, one for every six persons will be enough. Many persons now prefer that servants should not wear gloves in waiting on the table, but use instead a napkin with one corner wrapped around the thumb, to keep his hand from touching the plates and dishes. This is a custom borrowed from our English cousins. To insure the comfort of the guests, the following precautions should be observed. Servants should wear thin-soled shoes, the noise of their footsteps being unpleasant, and many hostesses prefer to have a dining-room carpeted, even in summer, that the sound may be still farther deadened. No clattering of plates and dishes should be allowed. Comfortable chairs should be provided, each lady being supplied with a footstool, and care should be used in keeping the room at an equal temperature, neither too cool, nor too warm. There must be ample light, but it should fall on the table from a sufficient height to prevent any glare in the eyes. N"ever have the table so crowded that the waiters cannot easily at- tend to the needs of the guests. It is hardly necessary to say. that no formal dinner should be announced by ringing a bell. A servant should enter the drawing-room and say in a low tone : " Dinner is served," or merely bow as soon as he can catch the hostess' eye. When seated, the gloves should be removed and placed in the lap under the napkin. If the first course is raw oysters, begin to eat at once ; the custom of waiting for others is out of date. The hostess should call into requisition all her tact and knowledge of society to set her guests at ease. No accident must disturb her. If her rarest china or most precious bit of glass is broken, she must appear not to notice it. If any one has had the misfortune to arrive late, she must welcome him or her cordially, though her duties to her other guests have not permitted her to wait in the drawing-room more than the fifteen minutes permitted by etiquette to the tardy. She must think only of encouraging the timid, inducing the taciturn to talk, and enabling all to contribute their best conversational powers to the general fund of entertainment. The same rules, of course, apply to the host. HOME MANUAL. SUGGESTIONS FOR ARRANGING THE TABLE AND SERVING THE COURSES AT A DINNER PARTY. The table-cloth should be of the finest quality, ornamented with laee or embroidery, if desired ; but the latest edict of fashion precludes the introduction of any colored materials that do not wash. Indeed it is well for those whose means will not permit them to follow every passing caprice of lancy to remember that fine white table linen is always suitable. The room may be lighted with either white or colored candles or lamps. Many persons prefer to have a portion of the light fall from side brackets or sconces on the wall. Decorations should always be arranged in such a manner that they will not interfere with the guests' view of one another. At present the prefer- ence is for low dishes of flowers of delicate perfume ; all those which have a strong fragrance, such as tube-roses, etc., should be avoided, as the odor is apt to become oppressive in a warm room. Never make an ostentatious display of plate, flowers, or ornaments of any kind ; nothing is more vulgar than the appearance of a desire to impress your friends with a show of wealth. At a large dinner, a card bearing the name of the guest should be laid beside each plate. Each person should have a plate, two large knives, a small knife and fork for fish, three large forks, a tablespoon for soup, a small oyster-fork for raw oysters, and a goblet for water. The knives and oyster-forks should be placed on the right, the other forks on the left of the plate, but never at the top. Bread should be cut in thin slices, and laid on a napkin on the left of each plate. Place the glasses at the right of each plate. Commence the dinner with raw oysters, then serve one or two soups, either a white and a clear, or a white and a brown soup; but never serve two kinds one after the other. Follow the soup or soups with fish, serve the entrees — two may be oflTered at an elaborate dinner — then the roast, then the game and the Halad. 6 HOME MANUAL. Salad may be served either with the game or as a separate course. In the latter case serve cheese and bread and butter with it. The bread can be cut very thin and carefully buttered, or the butter and bread can be served separately. If preferred , the cheese can be served as aseparate course. Follow the cheese and salad with the sweet dishes and ices, then Berve the fruit, and lastly the bonbons. Coffee can be served in the drawing-room, when the courses have not occupied too much time, or at the table, according to the preference of the hostess. Black coffee, which should be made very strong and clear, must be served in very small cups, with tiny coffee-spoons. Some vegetables, such as asparagus, sweet corn, or macaroni, can be offered by themselves ; but hostesses should beware of making the meal tiresome by a needless number of courses. It is not allowable, however, to serve more than two vegetables with one course, nor to offer anything except potatoes or potato salad with the fish. Hot plates must be provided for hot meat courses, entrees, etc., but never for salads, cold meats, nor hot puddings, which will keep warm without help. A fork, or knife and fork, as may be necessary, should be placed on the plate passed to each guest at each course, when the knives and forks first laid on the table have been used. Everything except the lights and ornaments should be removed from the table before the dessert is served, the crumbs being brushed off with a crumb-scraper or a napkin, a clean one of course. Finger bowls, set on handsome china or glass plates, with a fruit napkin or embroidered doily between, should be placed on the table for the fruit course. The dainty embroidered doilies, however, must never be used, and substantial fruit napkins should be supplied when any fruits that stain badly are served. Where there is more than one servant, a second waiter carrying the proper vegetables should follow the first, who passes the meat or fish. The lady next the host should first be helped, and the others in turn, after which the gentlemen should be served. But when there is only one servant the guests may be helped in the order in which they sit, beginning with the lady at the host's right, then passing to the one at his left, leav- ino" the host himself to be served last. It should be remembered by givers of dinners that too many courses are objectionable. In the best society of our large cities fewer dishes are offered than was the case several years ago. HOME MANUAL. 1 TEAS AND AFTERNOON RECEPTIONS. These are among the most informal entertainments given, and the difference between a large afternoon tea and an afternoon reception is lit- tle more than the name, though the latter is perhaps a shade more formaL The day and hour of an afternoon tea may be written on a visiting card. For an afternoon reception, an " At Home " card is used. Only simple refreshments should be served at an afternoon tea. Thin slices of bread and butter, sandwiches, fancy biscuit or cake, tea, coffee, or choco- late, ice-cream, and bouillon are offered. Punch and lemonade — but no wine of any kind — may be added if desired ; and also salted almonds, cakes, candies, and other dainty trifles. At an afternoon reception the table may be supplied with oyster- salads, pates, boned turkey, ice-cream, coffee, and bonbons. Care should be taken to have the simple refreshments offered at an afternoon tea of the very best quality. English breakfast tea is now pre- ferred, served with cream, cut white sugar, or slices of lemon for those who like tea made in the Russian style. The hostess should shake hands with her guests and receive them cordially ; any formality is out of place on an informal occasion. If the number of guests is small, the hostess should walk about the room, talking with her visitors ; if large, she should remain near the door, and have the aid of other ladies, who should entertain the guests, ask them to take refreshments, and make introductions when necessary. At a large and elegant afternoon reception the windows may be darkened, the gas lighted, and musicians employed, if the hostess desires, LUNCHEONS. The hostess may make this meal as simple or as elegant as she chooses. A formal luncheon party, however, is very similar to a dinner. If the occasion is a ceremonious one, the table is set in the same muiiiier as for a dinner, and the dishes arc handed by the servants ; but the guests enter separately, instead of arm in arm. At a large lunch-party either one long table, or several little ones may b<; used. If the latter method is [ireferred, take care that the servants have ample room to pais between them. Kach plate should have besido it two knives, two forks, one or two spoons, and a watcr-goi>Iet. The first course should consist of fruit or of raw oysters, or of bouillon HOME MANFAL. or chicken consomme, served in cups, set on plates, and supplied witk teaspoons. Tea and coffee must be served at the table, but their use is optional. If the entertainment is informal, the hostess should pour them; if formal, the servant should pass them in small cups on a waiter. If the lunch is informal, the sweets may be already on the table when the guests take their seats, if the hostess prefers ; but vegetable:? must always be served from the side-board, and the hostess should help the chops, cold meats, etc. Many persons, however, never serve vege- tables at an informal lunch, and the utmost freedom of choice in the selection of dishes is allowable. Cold meats, salads, oysters, croquettes, fish, French chops, beef-steak, and omelette are most frequently served. When there are several courses, the plates should be changed at each course. At formal lunches it is a pretty custom to provide a bouquet for each lady, grouping them in the center of the table to form a large central ornament, and distributing them to the guests at the close of the meal. Many hostesses present each guest with some pretty trifle as a souvenir of the occasion, but this is not obligatory. Guests should arrive punctually, and if the occasion is a formal one, word should be sent at once if, after accepting an invitation, any sudden occurrence prevents one from going. Either a white or a colored table-cloth may be used, but it must be one that will wash. Both etiquette and good feeling forbid gossip or scandal at a ladies' lunch party, and nothing is more ill-bred than to afterward make ill-natured criticisms upon the hostess or the entertain- ment she has provided. IT sometimes happens that persons new to society laugh at "• paste-boarcJ politeness," but a fair consideration of the convenience of cards will show that, like all the other laws of the code termed, for lack of a better word, etiquette, these little representatives of ourselves have a very sensi- ble reason for their existence. First, what should their style be? Plain paste-board, of good quality, engraved in fine script. Glazing, fancy designs, embossed or gilt borders, or odd sha[)es, are considered vulgar by well-bred [»eople. If chance compels the use of a loritten card, let the writing be in pencil rather than in ink, thus showing that its use is a matter of accident. The pro[)er size for a gentleman is smaller and more oblong in shape than that chosen by ladies, and unless he has some other title, " Mr." should precede the name. 10 HOME MANUAL. The titles properly placed on cards are those of army and navy offi- cers, physicians, judges, and ministers of the gospel, but neither militia nor any other complimentary titles are allowable. Ladies now have the entire name — with the prefix of " Miss " or " Mrs." engraved on their cards, as " Mrs. John Morris Eames," " Miss Edith Lloyd Richardson." Custom sanctions the engraving of the address on all visiting cards, and some ladies add the reception day engraved in the left-hand corner. In some cities there is one exception to this rule. A young lady, during her first winter in society, does not use a separate visiting card, but has her name engraved on that of her mother or chaperon. A single gentleman, if he prefers, can have his club address engraved on his card, instead of the number of his residence. A widow can use on her cards either her own or her husband's name, as choice may dictate; though she has legally no right to retain the latter, custom sanctions it. The oldest unmarried lady belonging to the oldest branch of a family alone has the right to use the name prefixed by " Miss," without the initials. For instance, in the case of an unmarried aunt and niece of the same name, the aunt's cards should be engraved " Miss Lancaster," the niece's " Miss Fanny Lancaster." It is customary for a young lady to have her name placed below her mother's or chaperon's on the same card, as : A husband and wife must have separate visiting cards ; the custom of engraving the names of both on the same card is now out of date. Black bordered cards should always be used by persons who wear mourning. RULES FOR LEAVING CARDS. In making the fi.rst call of the season, a lady leaves with her own her husband's, and those ot her sons and daughters. After a dinner party, a lady leaves her husband's cards with her own. HOME MANUAL. 11 A married lady, when calling on another married ladj, leaves two of her husband's cards with her own — one for the wife and one for the husband. When calling at a house where there is another lady besides the hostess, the visitor should leave two cards of her own, and two bearing her husband's name. When calling on a mother and daughters, a lady should leave two cards. Strict etiquette directs that the caller's name should be sent up by the servant and the card left on the hall-table ; but this rule is rarely observed, because few servants can repeat a name correctly. When paying a first call to several ladies — not mother and daughters — a card should be left for each. When calling on the guest of a house, a card should be left for the hostess also, even if she is a stranger to the visitor. When calling at a hotel, it is allowable, and even desirable, to write the name of the person for whom the visit is intended upon the card, to avoid the chance of mistakes ; but this should never be done at a private residence. Cards should be left or sent on the day of a reception, if ill- ness, a death in the family, or any other cause prevents the acceptance of the invitation. Cards should not be turned down at the corners, nor bent over at one end — the fashion is now out of date. In sending a first invitation to a person on whom the hostess has never called, cards should be enclosed wiih the invitation; but, if pos- sible, a call should precede a fir.-t invitation. After a proper interval of time, cards of condolence may be acknowl- edged (by pending mourning cards enclosed in an envelope). In large cities, in case of a change of residence, cards are sent out bearing the new address; but this is not the custom in small places. Persons about to quit any place, either permanently or for a long time, should leave in person or send by mail cards bearing the letters P. P. C. — " Pour prendre conge," " pays parting calls." Invitations to an afternoon tea, reception, or wedding, if one is unable to attend, should be acknowledged by cards sent by mail, or by a mes- senger. Cards may also be sent out by mail to persons living in neighboring towns, or suburbs so far away that it is difficult to i>ay visits in jtcrson. When a lady has set apart a certain day during the season to receive callers, visits should be paid on that day; btit when s|t('cial cards liave been issued for a series of reception days, it would show ignorance of 12 HOME MANUAL. etiquette, on the part of any person not invited, to call on any one on such days. Calls should be paid within a week after the receipt of invitations to a dinner party. Residents of large cities should call in person upon all their ac- quaintances at least once a year, and pay additional visits to all from whom invitations have been received. Calls should also be made in the following cases : When an engagement or marriage has taken place in the family of an acquaintance, or when an acquaintance has recently returned home after a long absence. Older residents in a street or city pay the first visit to later comers, and this first visit must invariably be returned in person within a week. If while calling a second visitor arrives, the first comer should take leave as soon as it is possible to do so without being abrupt. Gentlemen should ask for the mistress of the house, as well as for the young ladies of the family. Etiquette permits a gentleman — a stranger — to call upon a lady under the followino; circumstances: If she has invited him to do so, if he brings a letter of introduction, or if an iniimate friend of the lady or of the family presents him. A gentleman should leave his umbrella, overcoat, and overshoes in the hall ; but in paying a morning call it was formerly customary — and to some extent the custom is still observed — to bring the hat and cane into the drawing-room, and either hold them or place them on the floor beside the chair; but at the present time, they are quite frequently left in the hall, and on this point the caller is free to consult his individual preference. It is optional with the hostess whether or not to rise from her seat and cross the room to greet a visitor, or to accompany to the door a lady who is taking her departure. But in these, as in all other cases where the rules of etiquette are not imperative, it is well to remember that the course which sets the guest most at ease will always be the choice of a kindly nature. In houses where it is the custom to have a servant open the hall-door, the hostess should ring the bell at the first signal of the visitor's departure. But where such service is desired it is better to have the servant stationed at the hall-door during calling-hours. This is especially necessary when a lady has a day set apart for receptions. Ten or fifteen minutes is the usual length of a formal call, half an hour is the extreme limit. HOME MAXUAL. 13 A hostess should never accompany a gentleman to the door and, it is almost needless to add, that she should never pay this attention to a lady if, at the same time, other ladies are calling whom she would be obliged to leave in the drawing-room. INVITATIONS. Send out all invitations at the same time, and in ample season ; never invite any one at the last moment, except an intimate friend, who will pardon lack of ceremony. Invitations for a large reception, dinner, or luncheon should be issued one or two weeks in advance; and for a ball, in the midst of the season, two or three. But invitations to dinner and luncheon may be written, if the hostess prefers. For any large or formal occasions, such as receptions, balls, and din- ners, use plain cards, or note paper, engraved in plain script. IS'otes of invitation must be very carefully written on plain white paper of the best quality, but rather small size, and with due heed to the proper arrange- ment of words. Thus, Dr. and Mrs. A. B. Cox must be on the same line. The following may be adopted as a correct form for notes of invitations to evening parties : Mrs. y^ohn yohns requests the pleasure of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Smedley's company on Mondny evening, March 6th, from nine to twelve d* clock. A suitable form of acceptance is as follows : Mr. and Mrs, Richard Smedley have much pleasure in accepting Mrs. foht Johns kind iiivitation for Monday evening, March the 6tk inst. 14 HOME MANUAL. A <30urteous form of regret is as follows : Mr. and Mrs. Richard Smedley regret that a previous engagement to drive with Mrs. Black, deprives them of the pleasure of accepting Mrs. John Johns' kind invitation for Monday evenings March 6th. A prompt reply must invariably be made by all who recognize the obligations of courtesy, and it may be well to give one or two examples of an uncivil manner of replying, into which well-meaning persons some- times fall through ignorance or carelessness : Mr. and Mrs. Claude Johnson regret that they cannot accept Mrs. Thomas White's invitation for Friday evening. A still ruder form is: Mr. and Mrs. Claude Johnson decline Mrs. Thomas White's invitation for Friday evening. Dinner invitations are written or engraved in the name of both hus- band and wife : Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Clayton request the pleasure of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas White's company at dinner February eighteenth, at seven d clock. An acceptance should be worded as follows : Mr. and Mrs. Thomas White accept, with pleasure, Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Claytons hind invitation to dine with them, on Thursday, the i2>th inst , at seven o'clock. HOME MANUAL. 15 To return to regrets, the following rule is given in London Eliqui-tte: " All regrets from persons who are not able to accept invitations should contain a reason for regretting." This rule is as rigidly observed in the best society of America as it is in England. Persons in mourning regret that a recent bereavement prevents them from accepting; those who are going out of town regret that intended absence prevents them from accepting. "A previous engagement" is given as an excuse when there is an engagement at home or when one has no inclination to accept ; therefore, it is always desirable for those who really regret the necessity of declining, to specify what the engagement is. Invitations — except those to weddings and dinner parties — should be issued in the name of the hostess. It is considered good form for a widower to send out invitations for receptions and dinners in his own name and that of his eldest daughter, if she has been several years in society, or in his own name alone. Recent custom allows hostesses to send invitations by mail, in which case two envelopes should be used. R. S. V. P., the initials of a French phrase whose English form is " the favor of an answer is requested," may be w-ritten below an invitation on the right hand side Avhcre an answer is especially necessary. Its use, however, is becoming less and less frequent in the best circles, many well- bred persons being of the opinion that it conveys the inference that the recipient of the invitation requires a reminder of an ordinary act of courtesy. Invitations should never be addressed to Miss Jones and escort^ or, — when sent to a gentleman and his wife or fiancee, — Mr. Smith and Lady. Another form, though sometimes used by well-bred people, is regarded by many as objectionable, and, therefore, would better be avoided, namely, Mrs. Z. T. Lee and family. Invitations to large entertainments, receptions, w^eddings, etc., may be sent to persons in mourning if the bereavement has not occurred within a month ; but etiquette permits them to refuse without assigning a reason, sending, however,on the day of the entertainment, black-bordered visiting cards, which announce the cause of their absence. Invitations to dinners and luncheons should never be given to persons in recent afflictions. Always direct an answer to an invitation to the person or persons who issue it, even though they may be strangers to ^-ou. Always answer an invitation to dinner or luncheon at once^ accepting or refusing jios- itively. The reason is obvious, the number of seats being limited, a 16 HOME MANUAL. prompt reply gives the entertainer an opportunity to supply your place. Should illness, a death in the family, or any other reason prevent the keeping of a dinner-engagement, a letter or telegram should be immedi- ately sent, stating the fact. When issuing invitations to a family, direct one to the husband and wife, one to the daughters, and one to th''; sons. Notes of invitations to a gentleman snould be addressed Mr. B. 0. Hale, never B. 0. Hale, Esq. Gentlemen must never be invited without their wives, nor ladies w^ithout their husbands, unless to entertainment^ given exclusively to gentlemen or to ladies. Visiting-cards must not be used either to accept invitations or to regret the necessity of declining them. In closing, let it be most emphatically stated that all invitations should be answered as promptly as possible. The French assert that it is as necessary to give an immediate answer to a note requiring a reply as it is to a verbal question. ETIQUETTE OF MOUKNING. There is much difference of opinion in regard to the adoption of mourning dress, and excellent reasons may be advanced in support of both sides of the question. It is expensive, dismal, injurious to the health, and depressing to the feelings at a time when the heart has most need of cheer, urge some per- sons, and the statements are true. Yet it is also a great protection to those who really feel that the loss they have sustained makes the fulfilment of many social duties impossible ; it serves as a shield in going out on neces- sary errands ; it checks thoughtless allusion, which might give pain, and in families which have always observed the custom, it would seem like a mark of disrespect to omit making the change of dress which habit has sanctioned. The period of mourning, however, has been shortened of late, and the time during which it is usually worn is as follows: For a husband or HOME MANUAL. 17 wife, two 3'ears ; for parent, brother or sister, one year ; for a young child, six months ; for an infant, three months. For the space of a year no formal visits are paid, no gay entertain- ments are given in the house, nor is it considered decorous to attend the theatre or other places of public amusement while deep mourning is worn- Some persons say that a mourning veil should never be seen in a theatre, and it is certain that the sight of a person robed in deep black is extremely incongruous in any scene of gayety. The ladies of a family, before a funeral, see no one except the most intimate friends, and if they prefer can with propriety deny themselves even to them. The gentlemen must of course see the clergyman, under- taker, and others; but no member of the family, except in a case of ab- solute necessity, should appear in the streets until after the funeral ; there are always friends who are ready to do what is needful. I^otes of invitation are usually sent to the pall-bearers, who assemble at the house and accompany the body to the grave. It is optional with the ladies of the family whether they do or do not attend the remains to the last resting place. After the funeral only the members of the family return to the house, and it is not expected that a widow or mother will see any one except her nearest relatives for several wxeks. Whenever possible, the charge of a funeral is given to an undertaker who makes all necessary arrangements, prepares the rooms, etc. The usual custom is to dress the body in the garments worn in life ; but young people are frequently laid out in white robes. Floral offerings are beautiful ; but in large cities the display be- came so ostentatious that the request " please omit flowers" is often seen at the end of a death notice. Ko invitations of any kind whatever should be left at a house of mourning until after the lapse of a month. Then cards to balls, weddings, and general entertainments may properly be sent ; but when persons who have worn black are ready to resume their social life, cards should be left on all their friends and acquaintances. Wives wear the same mourning for their husband's kindred as they would for their own, and observe the same rules. Letters of condolence should be dis[)atched as promptly as possible ; but, unless the writer is in mourning, black-borderod paper should not be used. It is a duty from which most persons shrink, lor all who have suffered loss by death must feel how well-nigh hopeless are all attempts to console. Yet the sincere sympathy of friends can never be miwel- come to the mourner, and the message of remembrance should never be deferred. 18 HOME MANUAL. ETIQUETTE OF LETTER WRITING. Us»e thick, plain, cream-white jjaper, except for business letters; then ruled note paper is allowable. Fold all letters evenly, and put the stamp in the upper right hand corner. Never use stamped or yellow envelopes, except for business cor- respondence. Remember to enclose a stamp when writing to a stranger concerning your own affairs. Use sealing-wax if you understand how to make a handsome seal ; but never make an impression with a thimble or similar article. Use postal cards for ordinary business communications ; never for friendly correspondence or in writing to auy one who might be annoyed by having his or her occupation made public. Take the trouble to spell correctly. Be careful to write dates, num- bers and proper names plainly. Date a note, at the conclusion, on the left hand side of the page; a letter at the beginning, on the right hand. Sio-n a letter with a full name, or with the last name and initials^ In business correspondence sign "yours respectfully," "your obedient servant," " yours truly," or " yours sincerely." Place the name and ad- dress of your correspondent at the upper left hand corner of the page. Let your signature suit the style of the letter — a business communica- tion should bear a formal, a friendly note, a cordial conclusion. Never use any title prefixed to your name. Instead, write " Please address Miss or Mrs. A. B." In directing a letter to a married woman, use her husband's full name, or last name and initials, never her own. HOME MANUAL. 19 Kever use the husband's title in directing to the wife, as Mrs. Rev. John Jones, Mrs. Gen. Paul Revere. Always add Esq. to a gentleman's name — unless he has some other title — on all letters, except notes of invitation. ISTever cross a letter, never put the most important part of it in a postscript, and never sign one in the first person, if the epistle has been written in the third. Never fail to answer promptlv. Always write to a hostess, after making a visit at her house, and ex- press appreciation of her hospitality. K'ever address a letter to a bishop, " Bishop of Doane ;" nor to a doctor of divinity, " Dr. Clarke ;" nor give to an Army or jSTavy officer a title belono-ino; to a lower rank. Write to a clergyman as "Rev. Jonas Sampson;" to adoctor of divinity "Rev. Samuel Lane, D. D. ;" to a bishop," Right Rev. Simon Lincoln, D. D. ;" to a judge, member of Congress, mayor of a city, member of a State Legislature, etc., as " Hon. St. Clair Smith," and in the case of a member of Congress, add M. C. to the name, as " Hon. James Lamson, M. C." Do not put " Present," "Addressed," " Kindness of Mr. Grimes," or " Favored by ^Ir. Jones," when a letter is to be sent by a messenger. This fashion is now nearly obsolete. ETIQUETTE OF SPEECH. Perhaps the two words in the English language whose use just now is most perplexing are " lady," and " gentleman," for if misapplied they become vulgarisms, and so nice is the discrimination that the employment of these terms has been pronounced the most delicate test of any person's familiarity with good society. The most simple rule that can be given, is that a man is always a man to a man, never a gentleman ; to a woman he is sometimes a man and sometimes a gentleman ; but a man would far more frequently call a woman a " woman " than he would term her "a lady." When applying an adjective, the use of the term " man," or " woman," is almost invariable, for instance : " I met an agreeable woman the other day," " He is a very clever man." Yet a man would say, " a lady, a friend of mine," not, " a woman, a friend of mine." And he would ask: "Which of the ladies did you take in to dinner?" by no means, " which of the women did you take in to dinner?" In speaking of the number of persons, one would say : " There were a great many ladies at the reception, but very few men." A lady would Bay: "Are there many men here who are friends of yours," not, "are 20 HOME MANUAL. there many gentleman here who are friends of yours," or,, " 1 have invited two or three men to dinner," not, " I have invited two or three gentlemen to dinner." " Good-morning " and " good-afternoon " are also sometimes stumbling blocks. At a morning call, the use of the words would be old-fashioned. " IIow do you do? "and "Good-bye," must be employed instead. But between strangers, people meeting on business affairs, or superiors and in- feriors, the only proper expressions are " good-morning " and " good-after- noon." It is hardly necessary to say that both slang and profanity should be avoided, as well as the habit of using meaningless exclamations, such as : " Oh, my ! " or " goodness ! gracious ! " etc. Pronounce distinctly — Coming, speaking, reading, writing, and simi- lar words must not be shorn of their final consonant and converted into coniin', readin', writin', etc. Errors of pronunciation are not always committed through ignorance. Educated people frequently lapse into them from mere carelessness, and it is by no means uncommon to hear catch turned into ketch, can into ken^ fellow into feller, ivindow into ivinder, or pillow into piller. Dew and due become doo, secretary is often secatary. Route should be pronounced as though it were written root, not rowt and tovr should be called toor not tower. Gents for gentlemen , 2)ants for trousers, vest for waist-coat, and party for person are so fully recognized as vulgarisms that perhaps a warning against them is hardly necessary. Another frequent blunder is to use the word sick indiscriminately for all forms of illness. It should be applied only to nausea. Avoid what has been termed "newspaper English;" for instance, do not say "trans- pire " for " happen," nor "donate " for " give," " female " for " woman " or " lady "" folks " for family." Be careful not to drop the h from words in which it should be sounded, as " w'en" for " when," " w'ite " for " white," " w'ere " for " where." Do not commit grammatical errors. One of the most common is don't for does not. Don't is a contraction of do not. Therefore the don't is not allowable. Either avoid the contraction altogether, or say doesn't. Aint for isn't is another common blunder. Isn't is the abbreviation of is not. Aint, if used at all, should take the place of am not ; but it is always an awkward expression, and would be better omitted. A gross error, frequently committed by persons who would be expected to know HOME MANUAL. 21 bettei, are " I," or " they done it," for ^' I did it," " they did it," " I seen it," for "I saw it," and "He would have went;' for "he would have goner An error in taste is the too frequent repetition of the word " please." Say instead, " Will you do me the favor ? " " Will you kindly," " will you oblige me," etc.; remembering that this caution is not against "please," for occasional^ only for its constant use. In conclusion avoid, as the worst possible violation of the etiquette of speech, any correction of a slip of grammar or error in pronunciation committed by another person, made in a way which could mortify or hurt the ofiender's feelings. If it is necessary for any reason to refer to the matter, use the utmost consideration and courtesy, choosing a time when no one else is present. ETIQUETTE OF FAxMILY LIFE. Good manners, it has been said, are too often a cloak that is flung aside like a burden, as soon as the threshold of home is crossed. Yet, surely there is no spot on earth, where kindness and consideration for others — the foundation of etiquette — are better displayed, or more appre- ciated, and attention to the rules briefly given below will do much to ensure the comfort of the household. Be as courteous in the family circle as when among strangers. Let the house be kept in good order for dailj' use, not merely when guests are expected. Have a seat at the table, a room, and a welcome for any friend who may chance to arrive. Let the gentlemen of the family avoid smoking all over the house, or strewing cigar stumps, ashes, or burned matches on floors or tables. Make no needless noise to disturb the rest of the household, when com.ing home late at night. Do not sit between any one and the light or the fire. Do not allow children to take possession of the most comfortable chairs or the most pleasant seats. Do not fail to rise and oft'er a chair to any older person v.lio may enter. Never enter any one's room without knocking. Never precede an older person in entering nor leaving a room, nor in going up-stairs. Never fail to be as punctual as possible in attendance at the meal- hours. Never feel that sliuring the expenses of the household confers a right to give needless trouble. 22 HOME MANUAL. I l[immni.>'mi»»'iinii ^.^SllSSmmi^^ ETIQUETTE OF SHOPPING. For Employees. — Never fail in eourtesj to a customer ; but never proffer advice to aid in making selections, unless requested to do so. Never make any distinction between the rich and the poor, Never forget that a customer cannot always decide what to purchase until he or she has seen the new goods, and that any one has an undoubted right to go to a store and look through the stock for a reasonable time, without buying anything. Never talk to another employee when customers are waiting ; never show temper if goods are not purchased. Never allow any one to buy damaged goods without stating their condition. For Customers. — Never look over goods without any intention of buying them — merely to "kill time." Never set out on a shopping excursion without first deciding as far as possible what to buy. Never take a costly piece of goods — nor any piece — into a better light without first asking the clerk's permission to do so. Never let the door of a shop slam in the face of any person, nor permit a stranger to hold it open without any acknowledgment of the courtesy. Never speak sharply nor rudely to an employee. ETIQUETTE OF THE STREET. Courtesy requires the return of all civil greetings — those of servants included. Only the most serious causes can justify " a cut." In bowing, the head should be bent ; a mere lowering of the eye-lids., affected by some people, is rude ; but etiquette does not permit a familial nod, except between business men, or very intimate friends. In passing and repassing on a public promenade or drive, bows are exchanged only at the first meeting. In carrying canes, umbrellas, and packages, care should HOME MANUAL. 23 be takeL that they do not inconvenience others. In meeting on a street- crossing, gentlemen should make way for ladies, and younger persons for older ones. In driving or walking, always keep to the right. A gentleman should always ofier his arm to a lady in the evening. In the day he should do so only under the following circumstances : when the pavement is slippery, when there is a crowd, or when his companion is old or needs support. In escorting two ladies, he should offer his arm to one, and let the other walk by her side. " Sandwiches " are never desirable. ETIQUETTE OP THE HORSE-CARS. For Ladies. — !N"ever accept a seat from a gentleman without acknowl- edging the courtesy by a bow and an audible expression of thanks. Never show any sign of displeasure if, on entering a crowded car, no seat is offered. Never — if young and strong — expect an old gentleman to resign his seat. Never place baskets or bundles in the laps of other people. Never hesitate, if ill or greatly fatigued, to courteously ask a gentle- man if he will resign his seat, giving the reason for the request. For Gentlemen. — Never beckon to a lady, in order to resign a seat ; but rii^e first and offer it courteously. Never show reluctance to pass tickets or fares in cars not supplied with conductors. Never stand on the platform of a crowded car, so that a lady will be forced to push her way off". Step down into the street if necessary. Never take a seat while ladies are standing. 24 HOME MANUAL. ETIQUETTE OF BUSINESS. Never forget that time is precious to some persons, though you ma^/ be ready to waste i^ Never fail to settle all debts as promptly as possible. Never fail to have all the details of an agreement decided so far as they can be, before the transaction is concluded. Never forget that a contract can be broken only by the consent of all the parties concerned. Never keep washer- women, seamstresses, nor any one dependent upon daily labor waiting for payment. Never endorse a note, unless able and willing to pay its full amount. Never adopt a disagreeable manner when requesting payment of a debt. Never bu}' on credit, if cash can be had. Never show false pride nor affect a manner commonly known as " being above one's business." Never shirk labor, nor fail to devote the whole attention to the woi'c in hand. Never forget that a character for fair dealing is a capital that cannot be' lost. Never think it unnecessary to learn the minutest details of any business, and never imagine that success in any business can be attained without a thorough training for it. Never fail to be courteous in all business intercourse ; a pleasant manner will do much to ensure success. Never insist upon entering any business office, if told that its occu- pant is not at leisure. Never address a letter to a firm in any way except Messrs. John Smith & Co., Gentlemen. Never send a manuscript to an editor without enclosing stamps for return postage, if you desire to have it sent back if not available. Never write business letters in a rambling nor needlessly curt style, and never place Messrs. before the signature of a firm. Never annoy an editor by constant letters of inquiry ; remember that your manuscript is not the only one he receives, and exercise due patience. HOME MANUAL. 25 ETIQUETTE OF TRAVELLING. For Ladies. — Dress neatly in well made clothing of suitable material and simple style, wear as little jewelry as possible, and carry tbe smallest amount of baggage by hand. Have the initials or full name on all trunks. Never attract attention by loud talking, laughing, or constant giggling and, if under the escort of a gentleman, do not annoy him with needless requests. Always repay a gentleman any travelling expenses, no matter how trivial. When travelling alone, if possible, be met at the station by some friend. In arriving at a station in a large city where she is a stranger, a lady should avoid taking a hack, choose instead horse-cars, or the stages plying between stations. Always acknowledge, by an expression of thanks, any courtesy offered, but young ladies should avoid entering into unnecessary conver- sation or accepting favors from men who are strangers. Remember that in the Old World, especially on the continent of Europe, it is not the custom for ladies to walk alone in city streets. Older ladies are privileged to offer advice or assistance, should occasion require, to young ladies travelling alone. For Gentlemen. — It is courteous for a gentleman to offer to buy tickets, and check the baggage of a lady who is travelling under his care; but he should first take her to the ladies' waiting-room, not leave her standing on a crowded platform. He may also offer to get her refresh- ments, newspapers, or books, and — if the journey is along one — invite her to walk up and down the platform at the stations. If, by any accident, the friends exi)ected fail to meet a lady at the station, the gentleman es- corting her should, if possible, go with her to her destination. A gentleman may otler to help a lady, even if she is a stranger, whenever she seems really in need of aid. For instance, if she is laden with many parcels, or Las several children with her who must be trans- ferred from boat to car, or station to station. Two gentlemen n\ay talk together if agreeable to both; but it is wise to discuss only general t()j)ies. Gentlemen may offer to open or slnit a window for ladie^^ ; but should never presume U[»on a chance civility tlius extended, by attemj)ting to use it as a means of entering iuto conversation with them. While not regarded by all persons as ohligatory, it is always courteous for a gcntlo- 26 HOME MANUAL. man to offer his seat to a lady who is standing in any public convey- ance. ^o gentleman should smoke in cars or other places when ladies are present, spit on the floors in cars or stations, be disobliging in a smoking- car, by refusing to change his seat to accommodate a party who may desire to play some game, or accept a light, or any trifling civility from a fellow passenger, without any expression of thanks. For Both. — Before entering boat, train, or car, give the passengers who are in the act of leaving time to got off". Never take a seat just vacated without waiting to see if its former occupant intends to return. Never grumble about the trivial discomforts that fell to every travel- ler's lot, nor make comparisons — unfavorable to the latter, — between one's own home and the place where one happens to be. Never crowd nor jostle in passing on or oft' cars or ferry-boats ; never occupy more than one seat in crowded conveyances. If parcels, etc., have been placed on an empty seat, cheerfully remove them whenever it is needed. Never take the seat beside any person in a steam-car, without asking if it is engaged. Never forget that partition walls on steamers and sometimes in hotels are very thin, and be careful to relate no family secrets for the benefit of the person occupying the next chamber or state-room. Never incommode fellow-travellers by opening a window which forces them to sit in a draught — it may be an aflair of life and death to delicate persons. ETIQUETTE OF THE TABLE. Never lean far back in a chair nor sit on the side nor edge of it. Never sup soup noisily, nor from the end of the spoon. Never grasp the blade of the knife, hold it by the handle. Never eat rapidly, and never eat with a knife. Never cut up the food in small pieces on the plate. Never leave a spoon in a tea-cup, pour tea into a saucer to cool, nor drink from a saucer. Never use a steel knife for fruit. Never peel a pear or peach and then take up the juicy fruit in the fingers. Never put food on the back of the fork. Never tip the plate to obtain the last remnant of the soup. Never put potato-skins, fruit parings, nor anything of the kind on the table-cloth. HOME MANUAL. 27 Never bite mouthfuls from bread, always break it, never cut hot bread or biscuit open. N'ever hesitate to take the last piece of any dish that may be offered ■ — to refuse would imply a doubt whether the hostess had made sufhcieut provision for her guests. Xever break a boiled egg into a cup nor eat it with a tea-spoon, it should always be eaten from the shell with an egg-spoon. Never fasten a napkin at the neck, nor tuck it into a button-hole. Never leave a napkin unfolded if the hostess folds hers. Never leave the table until the meal is over. Never read newspapers, books, or letters if others are at the table with you. Never eat onions nor garlic, except when dining alone. Never play with napkin, fork, nor any other article. Never use a spoon to eat vegetables — a fork is the proper thing. Never put your own knife into the butter-dish nor into any other intended for general use. BRIEF RULES FOR THE ETIQUETTE OF THE TABLE. In conclusion a few rules supposed to be familiar to every one, but too often ignored, may be of service. Spread the napkin over the knee, hold the fork with the handle in the hollow of the left hand ; when in the right, use it with the prongs upward, holding it between the linger and thumb. AVipe the lips before drinking, in order not to soil the glass. Avoid bending over the plate, drooping the head too low, thrustij);^: the elbows out, or sitting with the back turned toward the person j;i the next chair. Be careful not to take large mouthfuls nor to eat too heartily. ETIQUETTE OF THE CLUB. While it may be said that there are few members of clubs Avho do not have a sufficient knowledge of the rules of etiquette governing them, there are always some who desire intbrniation on cei-tain jtoints, and it is for the benefit of the latter that the following biief directions are given : Never fail to become familiar with the regulations, and to rigidly obey them. Never feel that you have no riglit to vote against the admission to a small social club of any one whose society is not agreeahle to you. It 28 HOME MANUAL. would destroy the pleasure of sudi a club if all its members were nox congenial. Never allow personal prejudice to influence you in voting upon the admission of a new member of a lirge cliih. Consider only the following points: Is the gentleman's record clear, and is he in all respects a worthy associate for gentlemen. Never persistently propose for membership of a small club a name that has been refused. Never be disagreeable nor disobliging to fellow-members. A gentle- man should be as courteous in a club-house as he would be in his own. Never talk loudly in rcading-ruoms or library, and never misuse books, newspapers, nor other club property. Never seem selfish, monopolize the best arm-chair, make a practice of dining early to secure an extra share of a favorite dish, nor require special attention from waiters. Never grow angry over political or religious discussions, and never take any property of the club away from the building. Never mention the names of ladies in the club. Never show curiosity about other members. Never send an employee out of the club-house on any private errand without first requesting permission of the clerk or superintendent. Never bring dogs or other pets to a club. Never, while the guest of a club, take the liberty of introducing any one else; but the guest of a club is expected to avail himself of all tiie privileges of its members. <^^- 5l2actrtJing inbitations. not the purpose of this department to go into the full descriptions of Aveddings and how they should be F^ conducted, as that matter is treated in all the book?" of etiquette, and is also governed by the position of the parties concerned, so that every person should be governed by their position and the circum- stances which surround them. The province of this department is to give the proper forms for invitations for weddings and receptions. This is something that few books on such subjects give, and we liave no doubt that our readers who are interested in such matters will appreciate. In the first place, if possible, have your invitati^jis engraved ; do not use a printed invitation unless you are obliged to. The difference in cost 18 but trifling, and the different impression in the opinion of your friends is incalculable. The invitation should be on smooth white paper, satin finished, and the size should be about 6| x 4J, plain script should be used in all cases. Under no circumstances allow 3'our friends or your stationer to persuade you to use a fancy paper or type ; the envelope should match the paper exactly, and should be perfectly plain, with along pointed flap, and without gum. The outside or mailing envelope should be of good quality, and match in tint the invitation. Invitations should be mailed at least two weeks before the wedding, and it is best to give your stationer at least ten days in which to prepare them. This gives him time to do his work carefully, and also enables the invitations to get thoroughly dry, tliercby preventing the blnrring which will spoil the finest piece of work- manship. But in case it is not possible to give that length of time, in- struct the engraver or ]>rinter to put tissue paper between each invitation and be careful to fold the tissue with each in mailing. The i>ro[»er forn\ for an invitation is: 29 so HOME MANUAL. 7/U, 4^ Mu, ^ijm^ B^i^mfi- TD 7/U. €1-1 <^u^ ■a'i>'ltH>/ly interc'stt'd in the conversation and sli(»\\s much tact in asking a ([Uc'stion or putting in a remark just at the riu^ht time. In conversing with new acquaint- Mus. OLADSTONK. unccs, J KT ^oiis who'aro not reserved 44 HOME MANUAL. E. GLADSTONE. by nature ofteu show a certain reserve manner because, having no knowledge of the tastes and ideas of the strangers, they hesitate to start any topics save the most commonplace. The power of easily making small talk dispels this reserve, and renders its fortunate pos- sessor master or mistress of the situa- tion. One cf the severest tests of the ability to make small talk is the morn- ing call, because it entails fifteen min- utes conversation with the person called upon, an easy matter to any one who has a ready flow of talk ; but a source of dread to those who have little idea of what ought to be said. After the first exchange of greetings the weather usually comes to the fore ; but this topic also is speedily exhausted and one needs to intro- duce some subject capable of being enlarged upon. If guest or hostess has newly come to the city, either from a summer absence or a journey, the fact introduced into the talk might easily lead to a pleasant chat for the remainder of the call, the newcomer speaking of the incidents of travel or the attractions of the summer resort, the old resident, if that topic shows signs of failing, mentioning the pleasures or advantages to be obtained in the town during the winter. If either has recently returned from a trip to Europe a wide field for talk is opened by comparing mutual experiences, or asking questions con- cerning the most interesting features of the principal places that have been visited. If two or three callers are present, the hostess, even if averse to mak- ing a formal introduction, should try to render the conversation general, incidentally mentioning the names of her visitors, that each may become aware of the other's identity. When the time for leave-taking has ar- rived, a graceful mode of exit is to allude to any little plan that may have been formed for another meeting, as : " Then you will let me know if I may expect you next Monday ? Good-bye." Or^ " Then I shall hope to see you at the Qiarity Fair on Saturday ? Good-bye." To which the hostess might reply " Certainly, I will come. Good-b^^e " HOME MANUAL. 45 Or, " I shall be there, if possible. Good-bye." When there is nothing to add to the farewell, a good form is: "T think I must say good-bye," and the hostess answers: " Good-bye, I am so glad to have seen you." Persons who have just been introduced to each other during a call, at a tea, or on any other occasion, often have some little difficulty in starting a conversation unless aided by a suggestion from 'the person making the introduction, yet it is just at this time that pleasant, bright, " small talk " is most valuable in removing stiifness and creating a good impression. The mention of the place from which either person comes, the fact of a recent return from a journey , or interest in any special pursuit on the part of either of the strangers by the person making the presentation is a valfyable aid. Delicate flattery, conveyed by inference, is one of the most satisfactory methods of making a good impression on a new acquaintance, reluctant as the majority of people may be to acknowledge the fact. This, however, is not broad, blunt, insincere flattery, whose very grossness overshoots its mark ; but a pleasant, graceful manner of convey- ing appreciation of any special merit or talent the new acquaintance may possess. For instance : " I hope you are to sing this afternoon ; I have often heard of your lovely voice." Or, " I am glad to meet you. Our mutual friends, the Conways, have said so many pleasant things about you." The former remark might lead, by diverging from the owner of the " lovely voice," to a pleasant chat about music and musicians in general ; the latter would afford an opportunity for the exchange of familiar talk concerning the Conways — when they had been last met, etc. The dinner-party is usually considered the severest test of any indi- vidual's conversational powers, and some society men — perhaps some ladies, also — make a study of collecting a store of telling little anecdotes for conv(Tsat:on. Otliers naturally possess so ready a wit that they are always prepared to make a brilliant repartee, or an apt rejoinder. The difterence is that the gay readiness of one can always keep all the guests amused, though Ije may have said nothing csi)ccially worth recollecting, while the witti- cisms of the other might be worth storing in the memory for repetition on some future occasion. Conversation on domestic affairs and the tribulations occasioned by servants, etc., should always be avoided in general society. Few, indeed, 46 HOME MANUAL. are interested in the failures or successes of the last cook, or a minute de- scription of infantile diseases. A far worse error than this, — since it indicates a malicious dispo- sition, — is ill-natured gossip concerning the aifairs of others. "While some thoughtless listeners may be momentarily amused, the impression left upon the mind is always unfavorable to the speaker. Another class of remarks to be avoided is sometimes humorously mentioned as being " things one would rather not have said." Some luckless persons, either from want of tact or disregard of the feelings of others, appear to have a positive genius for the utterance of these un- pleasant " home-truths," and, it is needless to say, are by no means popular in social circles. Among such speeches may be mentioned the following : " How very badly your wife looks ; she needs a warmer climate; you should send her somewhere at once ; " — to a man whose narrow income renders it impos- sible for him to follow the advice. Or, " What a pity your daughter's engagement is broken ; Mr. How- ard is such a fine fellow." Or, " How much your little daughter looks like her Aunt Sarah, the resemblance is more striking every time I see her." "Aunt Sarah " being a notoriously plain and unattractive member of the family. Or, again : " How very unbecoming that red bonnet isl People with auburn hair should never wear red." This to a young girl who can afford but one best bonnet a season, and who is perfectly aware that her choice has been unfortunate. Music, the last new novel, and the last fashions in dress are frequent and usually suggestive topics to ladies, with an occasional discussion of shops and dress-makers. Young girls usually talk of their special amuse- ments and occupations. The small talk between persons of opposite sexes who are but slightly acquainted rarely soars above common-place topics, nor is it natural that it should do so, since its purpose is merely to pleasantly fill a few chance moments. It commonly begins with inquiries concerning absent friends — the lady, perhaps, asking if the gentleman has seen the Smiths lately. If he has, it aflords him an opportunity to say where and when, men- tioning any little incident connected with the meeting. If he has seen them in any city, the attractions of the place can be discussed. A few brief imaginary conversations, illustrating the suggestions previously given, may serve to make them more clearly understood. HOME MANUAL. 47 AT AN AFTERNOON TEA. Strangers having been introduced, and exhausted the convenient subject of the weather, one remarks : " What beautiful hair 'that little girl has." "Yes, and the present style of wearing it is so becoming to children; it is very picturesque." " Yes, and the Kate Greenaway costumes carry out the illusion ; the little people look as if they had just stepped out of a Christmas book." From this it would be easy to pass on to books in general, artists, or pictures, as the speakers' tastes might lead them. AT A DINNER PARTY. It is very desirable to fall into easy conversation immediately after any introduction ; but especially so when two persons, who have previ- ously been strangers, are sent to dinner together by the host. To main- tain total silence until seated at the table will be apt to give each person the impression that his or her companion is dull and stupid. The occasion, however, does not call for very profound remarks, almost anything will serve the purpose. For instance, the gentleman may say : " We must be careful not to step on that elaborate train," re- ferring to the costume of a lady preceding the pair. " Yes, indeed, that would be a mishap. But trains are graceful in spite of their inconvenience." Her companion must answer : " Oh ! I admire them, of course. Only I have such a dread of step- ping on them and bringing down the wrath of the fair wearer on my devoted head." "Are you apt to be unlucky in that way? And do you think a woman must necessarily be enraged, if her gown is trodden upon? " " Oh ! if you want my real opinion, I should say the woman who could stand that test must be a rare exception to the generality of her Bex ; but here are our places. AVe are to sit this side, I believe." Having seated themselves, and exchanged a few comments (of course flattering), on tlie talkie decorations, the lady, wishing to ascertain whether her conii)anion was one of the silent diners-out, might say: "Some peo])le do not care to eat and talk at the same time, but prefer to let what few comments they make come iu between the courses." 48 HOME MANUAL. "A man must be a dull fellow who cannot do both, with satisfaction to his neighbor if not to himself." " Then I may talk to you without fear of interrupting your enjoy- ment of your dinner ? But 3'ou speak as though it were easier to please your neighbor than yourself." " Set down that speech to my gallantry. Ladies are so good r.atured that they take the will for the deed, while my modesty precludes my taking credit for any efibrts of mine." " I often find that the men who are least ready to take credit are the most worthy of it ; so I shall exj^ect great things at j^our hands." " I fear I have unintentionally raised your expectations, and that you will be doomed to disappointment." " If that proves to be the case, perhaps it will be my own fault, and after all expectation is the better part of life." " Has realization always fallen short of expectation ? " "In some degree ; but I fear I am a little inclined to let my imagina- tion soar away with me." " Imao-ination is the safest companion you could have in your flight, and the one of whom you would be the least likely to grow weary." " Do vou never weary of your own thoughts — ^your own visions, and your own companionship ? " "Very often ; but then I am more practical than poetical ; you volatile feminine personages are always floating to more ethereal regions." " I am not so foolish as to indulge in day-dreams," the lady might answer. " I think people whose lives are full of duties, have little leisure for such amusement. But to change the subject to a topic less ethereal — how delicious these Pates de Cailles are. Still, the way the poor little birds are kept alive in boxes at the markets is very cruel." " To fatten them, I suppose. ISTo doubt it is rather uncomfortable. You ladies are so tender-hearted. But how about the birds you wear in vour hats ; and the wings that deck them ? Are not the gaily feathered fowl sacrificed to your vanity? " " Perhaps so, but not tortured, etc. MRS. GKOVER CLEVELAJiJj. HOME MANUAL. 49 AT A MUSIC ALE. Some one might remark : " That was a French song ? Are you famil- iar with the language ?" " I can read it fairly well, that is all. But my sister is an excellent French scholar. Are you not, Barbara ?" " Yes, I suppose so. But I was at school some time in Paris." " Oh ! that is such an advantage," a third speaker might remark, " I think one ought to go abroad to acquire a language." "Do you? " a fourth might answer. "Xow I think it is easiest to acquire a language in early childhood, when the mind is impressionable and the memory retentive." A fifth might chime in : " That may be when the child has a real gift for the languages, but not otherwise." Or, alluding to a song just finished, some one might remark: "What a fine voice Miss Seymour has ! Did you ever hear her before? " " Yes, indeed, very often. She attends a great many of these parties, I fancy. I am tolerably familiar with her list of songs, etc." AT A RECEPTION. ""Won't you let me find you a seat somewhere ? Don't you hate a crowd ? " A man who was thor- oughly at his ease might say to a lady to whom he had just been pre- eentc'd. " Oh no, I like to see a room full of ficople. It looks as if they appreciated one's invitations." " I am afraid you look at a crush from a hostess' standpoint. TIow yon ladies always make everything a home question!" " riii not 80 sure of that. You Ray you bate a crowd, yet if you ahould come to my '-at home" next MIHS AMKa. 50 HOME MANUAL. Thursday and find only a few people there, you would probably go away thinking that I must be a very unpopular woman." "Then you want to prove that crowded rooms are the standard by which to judge of the hostess' popularity? I never regarded them from that standpoint ; but you may be right. In that case I shall expect to be unable to get further than your door Thursday night." " That is rather a far-fetched compliment. I hope you will never be kept away by a crowd when the question of seeing me is concerned ; but you need have no fear this time, I have sent out very few invitations." This is about as far as the talk could easily be carried on so slender a thread ; but it could be readily turned into another direction by the question : " Is this the first entertainment of the kind you have given in your new house ? " " Why no indeed. I asked you to a party we gave three months ago, and you were out of town I believe, or something." " Something? Why I was ill for six weeks, unable to go anywhere, and when one has been out of society for a time, it is wonderful how hard it is to fall into the routine again." " Do you mean that people forget to send you invitations, or that you don't care to accept them ? " " A little of both, I confess that the routine of social duties is a little wearisome when one feels not quite up to the mark ; there seems such a sameness and uselessness about the whole thing that one begins to wonder whether it is not a huge mistake." " Oh, you are growing morbid. Society is well enough, so far as it goes. I would not try to set the world right, if I were you; but make the best of things as they are, that's my philosophy." " It is an easy going view of things ; but hardly the highest ground to go upon." If the lady wished to discuss the question whether, and in what way, it is woman's mission to elevate society and remodel some of its laws, this would afford an opportunity of drawing out her companion's views and convictions ; but if not, she could easily turn it into another channel, though starting with the last remark. " The highest ground ? Perhaps not. But I like to be sure of my ground, and avoid dangerous subjects, opposing other people's opinions, etc. But I find one is apt to say the wrong thing." " People who are sensitive or crotchety, are hard to get on with — one can't help rubbing them the wrong way." " I think sensitive people, or people whose vanity and self-love are HOME MANUAL. 51 peri:)ctually on the alert for a slight, are so much more tiresome tlian people with a crotchet. One can humor the crotchet aside from the individual." " I don't know about that ; I don't think 3'ou were specially inclined to humor cither my crotchet or myself just now." " Oh, that is very diiierent. It would not be a a;ood thing for vou if I did." " How do you know ? Suppose you try it just for once, etc." A little badinage of this sort, blended with common sense, lends, as it were, a dash of color to the conversation. AT A LALL. The fashion of saying, " May I have the pleasure of dancing with you ?" has given place to a less formal method, and a 3'oung man now accosts a young lady with, " I hope you have kept a dance for me," " Won't you spare me a dance ? " or " Shall we take a turn ?" The youno- lady does not answer: " I shall be very happy," a reply which has disap- peared with "May I have the pleasure?" but says: "I'm afraid I have none to spare except number ten, a quadrille," or "I am engaged for the next five dances; but I'll give you one, if you come for it a little later." Another form of invitation: "Are you engaged for this dance?" Some silly girls sometimes answer by saying, "I do not think lam," Avhile perfectly aware that they are not, and the young men are quick to see through the evasion by which the maiden seeks to conceal her lack of partners. A clever girl escapes from the dilemma by the prompt an- swer: "I am very glad to say I am not," thus inferring that she might have been en- gaged, had she desired ; but preferred wait- ing for the chance of dancing with him — a suggestion flattering to the gentleman. Ball-room small talk is not expected to rise above the common-place. The materials supplied by the entertainment itself are very limited — the l)and, the flowers, the floor, the supper. I)ull peojile usually ring the changes on those themes. For instance, " What a good band it is!" "How well the band plays!" "It's a capital band!" "What a ]>leasant Ijall-rooin this is!" "I tliink this floor is very good." " Don't you think tbe floor slip- 52 HOME MANUAL. pery, etc., etc. Such phrases, by dint of constant repetition, are apt to weary the listener, and people who can get away Irom them do well to branch off to vary the monotony. In response to the query : " I suppose you are very fond of dancing ?" a young lady, instead of making the usual answer: " Yes, I am, very," might say : " Yes, I am foud of it ; but there are other things I like quite as much," thus giving her partner an opportunity to enquire what amusements interested her. Simple affirmatives and negatives close the avenues of talk. " Yes, I am," " No, I am not," " Yes, 1 do," " No, I do not," give little encouragement for farther efforts. If smb answers are necessary, try to qualify them. Instead of a blunt " No, I am not," it would be better to say : " I do not think I am very fond of it. Do you care for it much?" A ball-room is especially the place for airy nothings. " This is our dance, I think," a gentleman might say ; "you are not afraid that I am not able to pilot you through the crowd ?" If the lady answers : " No, not at all," her partner would have to seek some other opening for con- versation ; but were she to respond : " No, I shall believe in you till you prove my confidence misplaced," the young man could reply that " he was proud of her confidence," he " considered himself put on trial, as it were," or that she " should have no occasion to regret her trust." If a lady wishes to compliment her partner on his waltzing, she might ask if he had spent much time in Germany. To which he would respond: "How did you guess that?" or, "No, indeed, why did you suppose so ?" This would aff'ord an opening for the reply : " Germans usually waltz so well, I thought you must have learned the art there." Ornaments worn in a ball-room often suggest gay conversation to ready-witted people. For instance: "I envy that butterfly on your hair, close to your ear. What a chance to whisper secrets, lucky butter- fly!" The answer might be : " Oh, no, the butterfly is not so hapi)y as you think ; I shut it upln a velvet case when I go home, lest I should lose it. Now, you could not be shut up, and you wouldn't like it, if you could." Or, the lady might reply, jestingly : " Unlike you, my butterfly has no feeling, so it doesn't appreciate ita happiness, a trait, I believe, characteristic of butterflies. You ought to know something about it." Here the retort might follow : HOME MANUAL. 53 ** YoTi are kind enough to anticipate my future ; I haven't found my wings yet ; I am still in a chrysalis state." If the lady wanted to have the last word, she might say: " Then you are safer to hold, if not so pretty to keep, and I think you could not do better than to remain a chrysalis for the present." In conclusion, it may be said that in the art of small talk — as in every other art — " practice makes perfect. ' No hard and fast rules to fit every occasion can be given ; but persons who really desire to please, and who will take the time and trouble requisite to carry out the above sug- gestions, will ere long find themselves included in the class known as " people everybody is glad to meet." ALLS. "When calling at a friend's house where there are other visitors, previously strangers to you, should you invite them to call as well as the hostess ? No. It is not necessary. A gentleman is paying an evening call. Shortly after another visitor arrives. Should the first take leave or remain ? Take his leave by all means — not instantly, but after the interval of a few moments. Too abrupt a departure might indicate a dislike to the new-comer. But it is extremely " bad form " for one person to attempt to " sit out " another. * In going up-stairs to a parlor on the second floor, which should lead the way, the hostess or the guest? The sruest. Two 3'oung ladies meet while paying a call at the house of a third. When one guest rises to take leave, should the other also rise and remain standing until she has taken her departure ? It would be more courteous for her to do so. 54 HOME MANUAL. 55 Is it proper for a gentleman to write to a lady with whom his acquaintance is very slight, asking permission to call at her home ? Better make the request verbally, if possible. If circumstances pre- vent, he may write respectfully. * * * A gentleman living a few miles away writes to a lady, stating that he will call on a certain evening. Should she reply ? Xot unless she wishes to do so. The gentleman must take his chance of finding her at home. Yet it is perfectly proper, if she desires, to write a few lines informing him that she will be glad to receive him at the time named. If she has any engagement for the evening, a note should be sent to notify him of the fact, otherwise, the natural inference would be that she did not care to see him. ,T TABLE. How should a fork be held ? With the concave side uppermost. * * "What reply should be made to the question: "Which part of the chicken do you prefer?" " White meat," or, " Dark meat." * At a dinner or lunch, after having been served once, would it be bad form to say: " Ko, thank you," in reply to the second offer of a dish ? No. * * Should one say: "No, thank you," to a servant? Yes. Should the napkin be left unfolded at the end of a meal ? Yes, napkins should never be folded. * * * Is it allowable for a inaii to eat Ijis meals witli his coat oi\"i Certainly not. No well-bred man would think of doing so. 56 HOME MANUAL. Should teaspoons be placed in the holder with the bowls up or down ? It would be better to put a teaspoon on each saucer; but if a " holder " is essential, put the bowls down. In drinking tea at breakfiist — from a coftee-cup — is it ever proper to leave the spoon in the cup, not in the very act of drinking, but in the intervals ? ITo. Is it proper to use a knife and fork in eating asparagus, or should the stalks be taken in the fino-ers ? l^ever use a knife. Many well-bred people take the stalks in the fingers. If a compromise is desired, use the fork only. * Is it proper to dip a piece of bread into a coffee-cup or egg-cup to moisten it with the contents ? ^ot according to American ideas, but some well-bred foreigners do it. RESS. What costume is suitable for a gentleman to wear on board a yacht ? If on a cruise, or where the party consists exclusively of men, a blue flannel or serge suit with white waist-coat would do. If ladies are present, a black diagonal cutaway coat, white or black waist-coat, light trousers, and light derby hat. * * * What is the proper material for a dress- suit? Black broad-cloth or dias-onal. * * Is it proper for young ladies to wear evening dresses while receiving calls at home in the evening ? No, a ball-dress would be an absurd costume for home wear. * On what occasions is it proper for a man to wear a " tourist shirt?' When yachting, playing ball or tennis, or in the woods. HOME MANUAL. 51 What is the proper neck-tie to wear with a double-breasted black frock coat, at an after-noon wedding ? A silk four-in-hand. * * What kind of scarf is it proper to wear with a tweed suit ? A blue polka-dot or solid color four-in-hand. Is it proper to wear one, two, or three studs in a shirt front with a dress-suit ? Three studs are most gen- erally worn, but one is perfectly allowable. * Is it proper for a young bus- iness man to wear a high silk hat during business hours? It is not the custom in cities. Strictly speaking, a high hat should only be worn with a frock coat or dress-suit. "WTiich is the proper choice for a man calliiiij: in theeveninor on a lady — a black cutaway coat, waist-coat, and grey trousers, or a full-dress suit? In winter, the dress suit. In summer, the rules of etiquette are less rigid, and there would be no objection to the former. * * * Is it proper to wear a bh.ck silk hat in summer, if a man dis- likes the light colored ones ? No, it is contrary to custom. * -X- * What gloves should bt; <;h()scn for street and evening wear? t "rj bii HOME MANUAL. For the street — tlie proper color is brick or tan. For evening — ■ white or lavender with broad, black stitching. -X- -X- Is it proper to wear a black cutaway coat at the funeral of a near relative ? Yes. ■5{- * * Is it proper to wear a frock-coat at a military dinner given at 8 o'clock in the evening ? 'No, a dress-coat is the proper choice. *„* "Would it bo proper to attend the theatre in full dress before going to a ball, if one occupies a box and keeps out of sight of the audience ? 'No, society sanctions full dress only at the opera. ' *" Is it proper for a lady to wear diamonds when travelling ? ISTo, nor is it good form to wear many diamonds at any time except in full evening dress "What should a widow wear for a wedding-gown ? She may wear a bridal dress like any other bride, with the exception of the veil and orange blossoms, but many widows prefer pearl-grey or some other delicate shade rather than white. To the one he knows friends. N^TRODUCTIOKS. Should a wife and husband be introduced as my wife," " my husband," or as Mr. or Mrs? The latter, " Mrs. A., Mr. X." If two young men meet three young ladies, one of the young men being acquainted with one of the young ladies, who introduces him to her friends, should the young man present his friend to all the young ladies, or only to the one with whom he is acquahited ? . She can then present the young man to her HOME MANUAL 59 Should acquaintances Avhom one meets hap-hazard in the street, or at a public entertainment, be introduced to one another? No, there is no necessity for doing so. * Is it necessary to acknowledge an invitation to a church wedding ? Formerly invitations to church weddings required no answer. Of late some persons send acceptances, regrets, or failing these, their cards. * Is it allowable for a young man, on being presented to a young lady, to shake hands with her ? Xut unless she first oilers hers. In introducing a lady and gentleman, whose name should be men- tioned first ? The lady's. * If two ladies walking together meet a third with whom one of the two friends is unacquainted, which of the names, in making the introduc- tion, should he mentioned first? It makes no difi'erence. Should a lady be presented to a gentleman or a gentleman to a lady ? A gentleman should always be presented to a lady. IFTS. What is a suitable gift to send when invited to a golden wedding — if the purse will not per- mit the souvenir to be gold ? Flowers are always appropriate. For the occasion named, yellow ones are especially de- sirable. * Is it allowable for a lover to give his fian- cee a bracelet instead of a ring? Certainly, but a rh)g is the usual choice, because it can he constantly worn. * Is it "good form " lor the bride to give the groom a jtrcsent? Yes, if she desires. 60 HOME MANUAL. Is it proper for a gentleman to give a lady a ring to replace one she has lost ? Not unless he is engaged to her. * What is the proper time to send a gift to a mother-in-law ? Before the wedding, at the same time the bride's is forwarded. * In sending a birth-day card, is it proper to enclose another bearing the words " With the compliments of — " ? Yes. Is it allowable for a young girl to accept a gift, even the most trifling, from a young man unless a card accompanies it ? Etiquette forbids any unmarried woman to accept gifts of any value, except from men who are related to her, or from her fiance. Flowers, fruits, or candy, however, can be received, and, if sent anonymously, the fact does not render their acceptance improper. * * * What would be a suitable birth-day present for a man to send & young lady ? A bouquet of flowers or a box of nice confectionery. Should the donors of wedding-gifts be thanked verbally or by letter? In writing, if possible. XGAGEME^TS. Is it proper for a young lady who is en- gaged to receive evening visits regularly from former admirers ? Certainly not. ■X- * * Is it allowable for a man, who is engaged to one young lady, to take another one to the theatre, or send her flowers ? 1^0 engaged man has a right to show at- tention to any one except his fiancee. * Is it necessary for a man who has been accepted by a young lady, to ask her father's consent, if he has no intention of marrying immediately? Yes, he should ask the parents' consent at once, and frankly state his financial condition and future prospects. HOME MANUAL. 61 Has a young lady a right to ask her lover for an engagement ring ? There could scarcely be a greater breach of etiquette. * What is considered the most suitable engagement ring? A diamond set in gold. How long is it allowable for persons to be engaged ? Until they are able to marry. * * * If a man who is engaged to a lady has set no time for the wedding, can he be compelled to name a date ? No. * * * Can an engaged man call on his fiancee every evening ? Certainly. He is expected to do so. * * * On which fins-er is the enffae-ement rins: worn? ^ our* o o On the third finger of the left hand. * * Is it proper for an engaged couple to walk arm-in-arm in the street? Yes, the lady is at liberty to take the arm of her fiance, if she desires * * * Is it good form for a lady to ask her fiance to take her to drive ? It is not improper, but ladies usually wait for their lovers to take the initiative, esj)ecially in the early days of the engagement. ■X- * * Has a man a right to break his engagement with a girl, giving her no explanation ? Certainly not. 'No man, who is a gentleman, would do it. our:n^inu Not Is it improper for a man who is in mourn- ing to wear a dress-suit to the theatre, if he wears a black tie and studs ? By no means. A dress-suit is proper to wear in the evening, whether the person is in mourning or not. Is it iiii]iro])('r for a person in jiiouniing to use mourning stationery for a business letter? improper, but unnecessary. 62 HOME MANUAL. Is it proper for a person who is in mourning to wear colored flowers? Hardly, but it is often done. White flowers are so easily obtaiiind that the colored ones are not necessary. * * * How long should a very young w' idow wear a veil over her face, and, after putting the veil back, how long should it he' worn? Six months or a year over the face, and as long as she wishes after- wards, but not less than two years. * Should a man who is in mourning wear a white or a colored waist- coat? A white waist-coat. Are colored shirts allowable? ^o. EDDINGS. Should the ushers at a church-wedding be invited to return after the ceremony to the house of the bride, when no reception is given and only the immediate members of the family are expected to be present ? It is not absolutely necessary, but it would be more courteous to invite them. Under the circumstance named, they would doubtless have sufficient good taste to de- cline. In presenting a wedding gift, the sender being acquainted with the bridegroom, can it be addressed to the bride ? Certainly. * * At a large wedding — in the country — is it allowable to use Japanese doilies instead of napkins ? Certainly not. Have a sufficient supply of napkins for the guests. * * * Should the bridegroom kiss the bride directly after the marriage ? Not if he desires to follow the latest rule of etiquette. * * * Is there any objection to invite young married men to serve in the capacity of ushers at a small home-wedding ? HOME MANUAL. 63 The sole objection is that it is not the custom. Etiquette requires that the ushers at all weddings shall be unmarried men. * now should cards announcing the marriage of a lady who has been divorced and taken her maiden name be worded ? In the usual way. * Who should invite the ushers at a wedding, the bride or the bride's parents ? Neither. It is the bridegroom's privilege to invite the ushers, but he should consult the bride's preferences. * "What portion of the expenses of a church wedding should the bride- groom pay ? The clergyman's fee. * * T\Tiat is considered a suitable fee to give to the minister who per- forms the marriage ceremony ? From twenty- five to fifty dollars. * •5fr Is it proper to issue invitations for a wedding only two months after a death has occurred in the family ? Yes, if it is a very quiet one, limited to friends and relatives. * * Does the best man at a church wedding precede or follow the groom? He follows him. * Is it proper for an engaged man to fix the date of his marriage six or eight months ahead ? Certainly. * Should a bride bid her friends good-bye when departing on her wedding tour, or should she slip quietly awa}^ ? She should bid them good-l>ye by all means, any other course woula be rude. At a home-wedding is it necessary for the best man to take the maid of honor in to sup[)er or to pay her any special attention? lie need not devote himself solely to her, but he should see that she 18 attended to. 64 HOME MANUAL. Should the bride's mother or the groom pay for the announcement cards, if the cards bear simply the names of the bride and groom with the announcement of their marriage ? The bride's mother. At a church-wedding, without music, is it allowable for th'j cride to wear a white dress and veil ? Yes, with oi without music, a bride has the privilege of wearing bridal-dress. * How should a wedding invitation to a lady and her fiance be ad- dressed — ^the sender of the invitation not being acquainted with the fiance? Write to the lady and ask for her fiance's address. Then send him a separate invitation. * In sending a wedding invitation to a firm, should separate invitations be addressed to the partners, including their wives, or should one be sent to the firm. Business methods must never be introduced into social affairs. Send each member of the firm a separate invitation addressed to himself and his wife. * * * Is it necessary to send a wedding-present when invited only to the reception ? !N"ot necessary, but customary. * Is it " good form," to kiss the bride at the close of the marriage nony ? The custom is almost obsolete. ceremony ? * ^ * Should wedding-cards be sent to the fiancee of the bridegroom's friend if the bridegroom is not acquainted with the lady ? Certainly. Should a note sent to a person living in the same town be forwarded by mail or messenger or delivered in person ? Either way is perfectly proper. •3f * * In sending a present to a young lady who is to be married on the same day, should the accompanying card bear the words " with best wishes," or " with congratulations and best wishes ?" HOME MANUAL. G.*) " With host wishes," congratulations should be addressed only to the groom. Which is the proper way to address a letter, Mr. A. D. Saunders, or A. T>. Saunders, Esq. ? Until quite recently the custom has varied in this country, hut the rule is now given that all letters except notes of invitation shall be directed to , Esq. When sending out announcement cards of a private wedding, is it necessary to state on what days and between what hours the bride and groom will be at home. It is better to name certain days, but it would be perfectly proper tc have the cards read : At home after June. ISCELLAIN^EOUS. In entering a room at a reception or party, should the lady take the gentleman's arm ? This was the custom some years ago; now the fashion is so decidedly obsolete that it would appear almost ridiculous. * In passing an acquaintance on the street, going in the same direction, should one turn and greet him? Certainly ; it would be extremely rude not to do so. * Should more than one invitation be sent to a family where there are sons and daughters? One invitation is sufficient for each married couple in a family, and each single adult member of the family should also receive one. * On entering a public dining-room with a lady, does the gentleman precede her ? Yes. * * -X- Is it allowable for a lady, when visitiiiiz; a friend, to invito lier to a matinee? 60 HOME MANUAL. Tes, bat as a rule guests should not propose excursions, lest they should interfere with the plans of their entertainers. When a ladr and gentleman are travelling together, which should leave the car first ? The gentleman, to help her oat. Should a man offer to shake hands with a lady or leave it to her to make the offer ? As a rule a man should not offer to stake hands with a lady. In his own house, however, if he knows her well, he should welcome her with a cordial grasp of the hand. On which side of a lady should a man ride? Never on the skirt side, if possible to avoid it. Is it proper for a young man well acquainted with young ladies to shake hands with them while they are standing after church waiting for their carriage, or should he merely bow and enter into conversation? He can do either. * * When a lady has been visiting in a friend's house, is it customary at the end of her stay to fee the servants ? Certainly. It is a matter of course. If a gentleman accompanies a lady to church, is it proper for her to lead the way up the aisle and choose the seat ? Certainly. If a gentleman escorts a lady to a party, is he bound to sro with her to the supper-table, or is it proper for him to choose any one he desires? He must see that the lady he accompanies is provided ^'ith supper, but he is not obliged to stay by her. Should R. S. Y. P. be placed on notes of invitation ? Recently it has been thought better not to do so, because the act HOME MANUAL. 67 might be interpreted as a hint that the recipient does not understand the courtesies of life. All invitations should be answered, therefore the letters R. S. V. P., which merely represent the French phrase for "please reply," are not needed. * * * Should bouillon be drunk out of the cups or sipped from a spoon? It should be drunk out of the cups. * * * Should letters of introduction be sealed, and how should they be delivered ? They should not be sealed. If in any way connected with business, present in person ; if merely social, forward by mail with the send- er's card and address enclosed. * If a gift is presented enclosed in a box or wrapper, should it be opened in the donor's presence ? Certainly. Open the package and look at the contents in order to express the pleasure the present affords. * * * Should a lady express her thanks to a gentleman for a gift of flowers in writing or verbally ? In writing, unless she expects to see him in an hour or two. * * * What is the correct way for a gentleman to ask a lady if he can escort her home? Say merely: "May I have the pleasure of accompanying you to your home ? " "Which should precede in going up and down stairs, the lady or the gentleman ? The gentleman should precede the lady in going up stairs and follow her in going down. * * * Is it proper for a young man, when calling on a young lady, to pre- sent a bunch of flowers or a box of candy ? Cert-ainly. It will be apt to make him a wolcomc guest. -X- * ■K- Is it proper for a young man to ask a young girl at their first meet- ing t(j address liini l>y his Christian name ? Certainly not. It would be great presumption. 68 HOME MANUAL. "Would it be proper for a lady to ask a gentleman to reimburse her for a dress be accidently soiled at a sociable, or should the gentleman ofler to pay for it? Either would be extremely improper. She should simply accept his apology courteously, and let the matter drop. * A gentleman calling in the evening on his aunt, is presented to a young lady, who is also calling. Should he oiier to escort the young lady to her home ? Certainly. * * * When a lady enters a room where there are other ladies, which should speak first ? The ladies in the room. * Is it proper for a gentleman to visit a lady more than three evenings in the week ? Certainly not, unless he is engaged to her. * / Is it good form for two young ladies to go from oi:e city to another on the cars without an escort in the evening to meet a gentleman to attend the theatre, and then return ? By no means, unless the. gentleman is a near relative, and a suitable escort is provided to meet them at the station on their return. * On entering a theatre, concert-room, or other place of public amuse- ment, should the lady or gentleman go first ? The gentleman, unless the way is perfectly open and clear. * * * Is it necessary for a lady to thank a gentleman who has escorted her home? Certainly. Always express thanks for any courtesy. * * * Is it proper for a girl of seventeen to go alone to matinees in a city ? Certainly not. Is it polite to thank a lady or gentleman for having treated one to ice-cream or soda? Yes. HOME MANUAL. 69 "W^hat is the proper hour in the evening for a gentleman to call on a lady? Any time between 8 and 9 : 15 P. M. * * * Is it good form for a man to giv^e a lady money to put in the contri- bution-box at church ? Xo ; she is supposed to have her own funds for such purposes. If she requests a trifling loan, that alters the case. * If a gentleman is walking with two ladies in the evening, is it proper for him to offer his arm to one only ? Certainly ; the second lady should walk by the side of her friend. * * * How should one address an unmarried lady, of whose age one is ignorant ? Dear Madam. * * * Is it allowable for a gentleman who is corresponding with a young lady to enclose postage stamps for replies ? By no means. Unless in a business correspondence, the act would be insulting. * Is the address " My dear friend " in a letter incorrect? Xot if it is by persons who are on terms of intimate friendship. * * Is it rude for a man not to remove his hat when a lady enters an elevator ? If it is an office or business elevator, perhaps not. But the courtesy is ahvavs advisable: and men who desire to be ranked amono; o-entlemen will do well to follow the rule " When in doubt, raise the hat." * * Which arm should a gentleman offer to a ladj' ? Eithsr. In the street the one which places him next to die curbstone. * * * If a man sends a lady a note by special delivery, requesting an imme- diate reply, is it a broach of eti(iuottc to enclose a special delivery stani[), on the assumption that the lady world not be j)rovided with one? No. * * ■X- It' a nian st-ated in a railroa*! 'i:yu:^cA> ^^^u^^c^VcP^ w^w- ead/uf anawcdy^ au^^^I^BitS^. . MRS. WANAMAKER, MRS. THOMAS B. REKD. MRS. RUSK.. M KS. NOBLE. HOME MANUAL. 85 first call from Foreign Ministers, but the families of Cabinet Ministers call first upon the families of Diplomatic Ministers. A distinguished stranger visiting Washington pays the first call upon a resident ofiicial of equal rank. Any newly appointed official, no matter what may be his rank, pays the first call upon those above him, and receives the first from those in lower grades. Strangers arriving in Washington should pay the first call and leave a card, and this visit should be returned within two days. The rule applies to both social and official visits. All these regulations in regard to calls of etiquette paid by officials apply to the ladies of their families, with the sole exception of the first call paid by the families of Cabinet Ministers upon the ladies of the Diplomatic Corps. THE SEASON. The social season begins with the receptions at the White House, and by the Cabinet Ministers on New Year's Day, and ends with the beo-in- ning of Lent. The Congressional season commences on the first Monday in Decem- ber, and ends with the session, or earlier, if it is prolonged until the summer. RECEPTIONS. These entertainments are usually held only during the season, and are given on fixed days by the wives of the higher officials and other ladies prominent in society. No invitations are required, and any repu- table person who is suitably dressed can attend. Gentlemen may also go either with or without ladies. The host is present or absent, as inclina- tion dictates. The usual hours are from three to six. The reception days, allotted by the sanction of custom to the wives of the difterent officials, are as follows : Mondays, the families of the Justices of the Supreme Court of the United States, and ladies living on Capitol Hill. Tuesdays, families of the Speaker and l\epresentativ«s in Consi-ress, and of tlie Glcneral of the Army. Wednesdays, families of the Cabinet Ministers. Thursdays, families of the Vice-president and Senators of the United StatoH. S6 HOME MANUAL. Fridays, ladies residing in the West end, but not members of the official circle. Saturdays, the reception of the Mistress of the White House. Ladiea not in the official circle may select any one of the days mentioned, if the fact of residing in the same neighborhood with (Certain officials renders it more convenient for their callers. The etiquette of the reception is very simple. Hand a card to the usher, if there is one, and he will announce the visitor's name. Exchange the usual civilities, and then i)ass on to make way for others. If there is no one to receive the card, put it in the receiver in the hall, enter the room, and, if a stranger to the hostess, pro- nounce your own name clearly. It is usual to have refreshments at these receptions, and, after ex- changing a few words with the hostess, guests are expected, if they desire, to go to the dining-room and take a cup of tea, bouillon, a little salad, or an ice. But any appearance of eating a substantial lunch should be avoided. On leaving, take leave of the host and hostess. A gentleman can hold his hat in his hand, but the overcoat should be left in the hall, and not put on till after he has paid his parting compliments to the hostess. Ladies never remove their wraps and bonnets. The proper dress ft)r a gentlemen is a frock coat and grey or other light trousers, tan colored gloves, and unobtrusive cravat. Ladies wear handsome street costumes. EVENING RECEPTIONS. The usual hours for these entertainments are from eight to twelve — often they are prolonged until still later. 'No one is expected to attend them except by special invitation, and the etiquette observed is the same as at a ball. Both ladies and gentlemen go in full dress — ladies wear the most elegant evening toilettes, and gentlemen the res^ulation evcninsr suit .- — black dress coat, black trousers, white tie, pearl-colored gloves, stitched with black. Guests on arriving are shown to dressing-rooms to remove their wraps. If there is no one to announce the names, the gentleman, if unacquainted withhishost, mentions his own and then that of the lady accompanying him. HOME MANUAL. 87 TITLES. In addressing the President, Mr. President. In addressing the Cabinet Ministers, Mr. Secretary, Mr. Postmaster General, etc. Custom sanctions the use of the title Mrs. Secretary in speaking; of the wives of Cabinet Ministers ; but in addressing them say simply Mrs. ORDER OF RANK OF THE CABHTET MINISTERS, As arranged by the statute fixing the order of their succession to the Presidential office in case of the death of the President, Vice-President, and President of the House of Representatives : 1. The Secretary of State. 2. The Secretary' of the Treasury. 3. The Secretary of War. 4. The Attorney General. 5. The Postmaster General. 6. The Secretary of the Navy. 7. The Secretary of the Interior. (There was no Secretary of Agriculture at the time the statute was passed.) SATURDAY AFTERNOON RECEPTIONS. The?e are held every Saturday afternoon during the season by the lady presiding over the White House, and are more especially intended for ladies, though gentlemen are not excluded. The dress is the same as ior the al'ternoon receptions of the ladies of the Cabinet. On the way to the red parlor, leave a card in the receiver in the corridor and pass on to the blur j.arlor, where the receiving party will be found. The etiquette of ]>resentati(jn is the same as for the evening receptions given by the President. Callers usually promenade in the East Room and visit the beautiful conservatories. 88 HOME MANUAL. FORMS OF INVITATIONS. Card deception of a Cabinet Minister. ^i::^^^. AIII HOME, ^ -J • V-/^ ^ / T T 20 IOWA CIRCLE 7/^^- ;%^. -.^^ ;^^^ _.„. A^ DINNEI^, 10 LAFAYETTE SQUARE. MRS. LEVI P. MORTON. HOME MANUAL. 89 REPLY TO INVITATION OF CABINET MINISTER. f^'7^€?^ /h- €ZCC€^l //Ze ■C'^A'Z^f,tgl./c€^'^ €'jf e ''^<^Jee4,e/€i.4--2^ tional — within the hours named for the reception. 90 HOME MANUAL. when ready to leave the house, return to the cloak-room for the wrap?>, and proceed to the carriage. Xo farewell to the President and his wife is expected. 'Ko refreshments are served. CALLS ON THE PRESIDENT AT HIS OFFICE. Strangers desiring to call on the President are sometimes at a loss to know what forms to observe, and a brief description may be useful. On reaching the White House, ask for the ante-room of the Execu- tive office, and hand a card to the official in charge, who will deliver it at the proper time. Then take a seat and wait to learn whether you can be received by the President. This may not be even on that day, if public business is urgent. If the caller merely desires to see the President, he should write on his card " to pay respects.'* This Avill insure the earliest reception possible. When shown into the Executive office mention your name and resi- dence — if a stranger, bow, exchange a shake of the hand, and after a few words move on, making way for others. If the party includes several the tirst to enter should introduce the others, stating their position, if tliey have any local importance, and their object in coming to the Capital, but as briefly as possible. Callers who have business must await their turn, and on entering remain standing — unless invited to sit down — and state clearly and con- cisely the purpose of the visit. CALLS ON CABINET OFFICERS. The visitor on going to the Department — which should be done be- tween the hours of 9 and 2 — proceeds to the ante-room of the Secretary's office, sends in his card, and waits for a notification that he will be re- ceived. On being shown in, observe the usual rules of a business inter- view, remembering that time is precious to public men. CALLS ON SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVES. A visitor desiring to call on a Senator should go to the ante-room of the senate, at the east end of the senate lobby, send in his card to the official in charge, and wait a reply. The Senators frequently desire the messenger to show the caller into the Senators' reception-room, known as the marble-room, where he joins him. If the call is paid to a Representative, the visitor sends in his card by the door-keeper. In both cases it is well to write oji the card " for Senator," — " for Representative," — and in the left hand " to p;iy respects," if the call is not on business. If he desires to meet a Senator or Representative from another State, it would be well to send a card to one of the Members of Congress Ironi his own State, if he knows any of them, and request an introduction either by personal presentation or by card. HOME MANUAL. 91 •'/"A r'^^F^ ."t^ -A' 'J/' V MRS. JOHN TYLER. MRS. MARTHA WASHINGTON. MRS. ABIGAIL ADAMS. ( fC MRS. DOLLY MADISON, MRS LOUISA CATUEKINE ADAMS MRS. M iRTHA JEFFEKSON. ^■'./ MRS. VAN tlL'RUN. .MRS. ANDKl.W J\l.KSON. 92' HOME MANUAL. MISS HARRIET I.ANB. MRS. ABRAHAM LINCOl-N. MRS, ABIGAIL FILLMORE. MRS. MARY A. MC ELROY. MRS. JAMES A. GARFIELD. K 17 ' MR3. ULYSSES S. GRANT. MR?. ANDREW JOHNSON. MISS ROSE ELIZABETH CLEVELAND. MRS. LUCY WEBB HAYES. \ MAIX ENTRANCE. Arlington. TISITORS to "Washington rarely fail to make a pilgrimage to the national cemetery, formerly the home of General Rohert E. Lee. Tiie main entrance is through wide gates, on either side of which stand two marble columns brought in 1873 from the portico of the build- ing formerly occupied by tlie government as the war department. Three of these pillars bear the names of Scott, Lincoln, and Stanton. There are several burial fields, but the largest one is quite near the mansion, where a level plain, many acres in extent, contains thousands of graves stretching in ])arallL'l lines almost as liir as the eye can reach. Close in the rear of the house is a huge granite tomb, near which almoist every one lingers, touched by Ihc pathos of the thought that here lie 2,111 heroes whose very names are unknown. Their bodies were gathered after the war from the road to the Rappahaiuiock and the battle-fielils of Dull Knn. Thi; entire number of the silent host interred in tjiis '• (Jod'H Acre" is l(i,2(j4. 93 94 HOME MANUAL. The mansion itself was built by George "Washington Parke Custis, Washington's adopted grandson, when, on attaining his majority, he came into possession of the estate. It is beautifully located on the brow of a hill on the Virginia bank of the Potomac — here a mile in width — • directly opposite Washington, and its broad portico aifords a superb view across the glittering "River of Swans" of the capital, dominated by the snowy marble column erected to the memory of Washington, and the majestic Capitol crowning its own hill-top two long miles away. ARLINGTON MANSION. The house, a two-story brick structure one hundred and forty feet long, covered with a sort of plaster stucco, painted a yellowish brown, con- sists of a central building with a deep, wide portico, supported by eight massive columns, and two wings. A large door opens from the portico into a wide hall running directly through to the rear and separating the rooms on the ground-floor. At the right is a large dining-room, from which open several smaller apartments, while the space on the left of the corridor is occupied by two parlors and a conservatory. The second story HOME MANUAL. 95 contains quite a number of tolerably spacious chambers, now the residence of the official who has charge of the military cemetery. The ground-floor is scantily furnished with a few chairs and desks. Prior to Colonel Lee's departure to enter the Confederate Army, the Arlington mansion contained a very large number of Washington relics, brought by Mr. Custis — to whom they had been bequeathed by his grand- mother, Lady Washington — from Mount Vernon and when in the spring of 1861 the Lee family quitted Arlington most of its treasures were left. The United States forces soon took possession of the estate, and the government seized the relics, which may now be seeii in the National Museum. In 1869, Mrs. Lee made an attempt to regain possession of them, but Congress refused to grant her petition. Being entailed property, Arling- ton could not be confiscated ; but as the taxes on it were not paid, it was ofl^ered for sale in January, 1864, and purchased by the government for $23,000. The National Military Cemetery was laid out in May, 1864. SiJltricris' l^omc. ONE of the loveliest drives near Wasliing- ton is through the grounds of the Soldiers' Home, an institution which provides a pleasant refuge for all soldiers of the regular army who have served twenty 3'ears in the ranks, or who from any cause have become permanently disabled. The fund for the purchase was obtained by General Scott from assessments upon the large towns and cities in Mexico occupied by our troops, sales of captured government tobacco, etc., amounting in all to about $200,- 000, from which, after certain sums were distributed among the rank and file, and given to the wounded in hospitals, $118,000 SOLDIERS' HOME. KTATUK OF OKNEBAL SCOTT. remained unused at the close of the Mex- \%_ ican war, and was de- voted tothe pur- chase of the farm of George W. Riggs, to which "Harewood," the property of the late W. W. Corcoran, was added. The expenses of maintaining the ]:»lace are de- frayed by a tax of 12| cents a nionth on the pny of every en- listed man in the army. 96 HOME MANUAL. 9t The grounds comprise five hundred acres of lawn and woodland, through which wind beaittifully-kept roads. The Home proper is of white marble in the form of the Roman ligure I, formed of the old building known as the " Scott building " having been the first erected, and the new wing just completed called the " Anderson building." In these are barracks and the general mess-hall, which is a beautiful room ; beneath it is the kitchen with its steam cooking arrange- ments, the billiard and card-room, carpenter and shoe shops, book-binderj, THE PRESIDFNTS SUMMER HOME. etc. All the work jtortaining *o the care of th.^ TTome and necessities of the inmates is done by the meii as far as possible, thus making it self- supporting. There is also a large red brick barracks building, known as the "Sheridan building" with the library or reading hall just beyond, where well-stocked cases, tables, and easy-chairs are found. The Presi- dent's cottage was the original country house of Mr. liiggs, and, on the purchase; ofthe farm, was retained unchanged, and, owing to the necessity or the cotiHtant presence of Mi. LirKoJu in W'sisliington, was occupied by him 98 HOME MANUAL. as a Slimmer retreat, a custom wliicli was followed by otlier Presidents, Mr. Arthur being the last. Probably it may never again be used for the purpose. To keep or place it in repair, such as would be fitting our chief executive, would require an act of congress appropriating the money, as it would not be a proper expenditure of the funds raised from the tax on the soldiers, and owing to the crowded condition of the Home it will be used in the future as additional barracks, the musicians occupying it at present. When President Arthur lived there he forbade the expenditure of a dollar upon it, paying for everything from his own jjurse. Around the drive, to the right of the Home, are the quarters of the Governor, the (Quarter- master, and the Doctor, officers in charge of the Home. The board which controls the expenditure of moneys and general management of the Home consists of the General of the Army, the Quartermaster General, the Com- missary General, the Judge Advocate General, and the Governor of the Home, who is always a retired officer of the Army of the rank of Colonel. VIEWS IN THE PARK OF SOLDIER'S HOME. HOME MANUAL. 9<» Base Line I 86 ft. Service Line 27 ft. ,t M Service Line 27 ft. B Jiami Lluu 30 ft. Jd LAWN-TENNIS COURT. (©ut IBoot Sports. "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy." — old proverb. Hamlet. — " Will you play upon this pipe ?" Criiildensteni. — "I know no touch of it, my lord." — sfiakespeare. The musician spends years in acquiring the skill and knowledge necessary to evoke the best music of which his chosen instrument is capable. The engineer must devote much time, thought, and energy, before he masters his profession, and can be entrusted with the sole charge of his engine. Now what musical instrument is so delicate, what mechanical device is so complicated as the human body, and yet how few children are taught the simplest rules of physical culture. The mind is trained and tasked for many hours, during many days, while the body is left to fend for itself. A slow, aimless promenade, or several hours' dance in a hot room, represent about the only exercise a girl takes after she has entered her teens ; boys are better off, for most of them love the open air, 100 HOME MANUAL. 101 but how few are symmetricallj^ developed, as they might be, did thej iearn to manage their bodies as the musician does his instrument and the engineer his machine. ARCHERY. For exercising and strengthening every muscle of the body, as well as training the eye and steadying the nerves, few, if any pastimes, excel archery. Having its origin in pre-historic times, it comes to us with an accumulation of legends, both in poetry and prose, that no other sport can boast. Italian or Spanish yew is the best material for the bow, but one of either costs $50, while a bow of lemon wood can be bought for $10. Its length should be equal to, or a little in excess of, the height of the person using it. Desirable as a good bow is, a perfect arrow is indispensable. The best target arrows have a hickory shaft, a horn nock with its notch for holding the bowstring ; three peacock or goose-wing feathers or vanes set at equal distances around the shaft and just above the nock, a very liard and heavy triangular piece of wood called the foot at the point end of the shaft ; and a steel ferrule covering the end of this foot. The Eng- lish shilling is the standard of weight marked on target arrows; a fifty pound bow and a 4| or 5 shilling weight arrow would be suitable for the use of an athlete. To acquire the habit of drawing steadily, and always to the same distance, hold your bow in ^-our left hand nearly vertical but a little to the right, the arrow resting upon the knuckle of your left hand, the first three fingers of your right hand closed around the string with the arrow nock between the first and the second. Extend your left arm and, with your right hand, draw string and arrow a little below the line of the chin and then loose your hold. Learn to keep the left arm per- fectly steady, as the slightest movement destroys your aim. When by constant practice you have mastered these points, you are ready to learn how to shoot. BASE BALL. Tliougli evolved from some of the older English games, America may jiHtly claim Icise ball as lier national game. Played with great celerity, tlio balls pitched and batted often with tremendous force, accidents un- fortiHiiitely are nf)t rare, but most of the dangei*s can be avoided by (|uick- ncHs, watchfuhiess, and a determination to do nothing reckless. An amateur club needs but a dozen bats and Iwo or tlun-e balls, but the pro- fV'.ssion;ilsadd largely to thissiniplc ('(|ui|»in('nt. George E. Stackhouso, an untliority on baseball, has givi-n in |>fiiil llic meaning of the following: M HOME MANUAL. TECHNICAL TERMS. The game of base ball has its regular technical phraseology. An explanation of some of the terms in common use is necessary to an under- standing of the game. Assistance on Strikes in Pitching. — The pitcher is given assistance •when he strikes a batsman out. In the League the record goes into the table, but in the American Association it is credited in the summary. Box. — The " box " is the pitcher's position, or the little square in the centre of the diamond. Balk. — A balk entitles a base-runner to a base, and is made when the pitcher performs any of the preliminary movements in delivering the ball to the bat, but fails to throw the ball. This rule, however, is seldom if ever enforced. Nearly all the pitchers make numerous balks during a game, but the umpire seldom calls them. Battery. — This technical term applies to the pitcher and catcher. What part of a batter}' a catcher is nobody has ever been able to find out. Battery Errors. — A re the misplays of the pitcher and catcher, such as wild pitches, passed balls, called balls, and hitting the batsman. Block. — A block ball is a ball stopped by an outsider. The ball has to be returned to the pitcher in his position before a base-runner can be put out. Called Balls. — When a pitcher throws six balls and they are not where the batsman wants them, the batter is sent to first base on called balls. Change of Pace. — Applies to the pitcher when he alternates in his delivery between a slow and swiftly pitched ball. Many pitchers depend largely for eftectiveness upon such change of pace. Chances. — A chance means an opportunity of a fielder to put an opponent out. Curve. — The curve applies to the twisting or curving of the ball. Dead Ball. — A dead ball is one that strikes the batter or his clothing or the bat, without his striking at it. It is also dead if it strikes the umpire before it reaches the catcher. Fair Boll. — Is a ball pitched squarely over the plate at the height asked for by the batter, and whether that individual strikes at it or not it is called a strike by the umpire. Strike. — When a batsman hits at the ball, but the bat and ball fail to collide. "Three strikes" retire a player if the catcher holds the ball. HOME MANUAL. 103 Head Work. — The term is applied to a player who uses judgment iii his work. High Ball. — A batsman calls for a high ball when he wishes the pitcher to put the ball over the plate at a height above the waist, but below the shoulder. Low Ball. — A fairly pitched ball which goes over the plate at a height between the player's belt and knee. Oat of Form. — Means just what one would suppose it meant. A pitcher losing his effectiveness or a batter being unable to hit the ball. Wild Pitch. — A ball pitched out of the catcher's reach. It counts against the pitcher's record. A. B. — -In a score sheet means times at bat. Base on called balls are not counted in times at bat. Passed Ball. — A ball fairly pitched by the pitcher, but which the catcher fumbles or allows to pass him. i?.— Stands for "runs." IB. — In a score means " bingle base hits. " P. 0. — In a score means "put out. " A. — Stands for assists. When a player throws a ball to a baseman who puts an opponent out, the thrower gets an assist. T. B. — Total number of base hits. E. — The enemy of all base ball players ; and under this head all blunders in fielding are credited. Muffin. — Is a term applied to poor players or when a player drops or misjudges a batted or thrown ball. Hot Balls. — The lightning like shoots thrown or hit to the infielders. Fly Catch. — A ball caught in the air by a player. Foul Tip. — A foul ball caught by the catcher sharp and speedy from the hall. It is a most difficult catch to make. Napping. — When a player through carelessness or sleepy -headedness is caught off his base. Double Play. — Two players put out on one ball, or bel'ore the ball is pitclied to the bat again. Triple play. — Tiie same as above, except that tlinc jilavLTs mc juit out instead of two. Run Oat. — When a phiycr is caught between tin- bases and put out. Wild Tfirow. — A ball tlirciwH mil dftlie reiu-h ofa player. Running Catch. -A liall <:iiiglit while running i-apiflly. Duhs. — P()(»r players. 104 HOME MANUAL. — -4^- BOATING. "Whether the propelling power be the ancient one of oars, the more modern one of sails, or the latest invented one of steam, traversing the water has always been a favorite recreation. Though rowing was the earliest known mode of navigation, it was never accounted an amusement until the present century. Gradually the wide, heavy boats and clumsy oars, used only for transportation and commerce, have given place to the graceful canoe, light as a cockle, and the slender racing shell, long and tapering as an arrow, and almost as swift in its flight. Besides this diminution in weight two inventions have helped to add to the popularity of rowing ; the first was substituting the outrigger for the oldfashioned rowlocks, the second was employing the sliding seat in place of the stationary. But rowing is an acquired art, whereas paddling comes natural ; and as the racing shell is the ideal craft for the first, so the cedar canoe is the boat jmr excellence for the second, and both are preferable to yachting where exercise is the chief object; but where pleasure is the motif of an excursion on the water, the dancing yacht with her glistening sails, rattling cordage, luxurious seats, and breezy deck, must forever take the lead. Less romantic, but more independent than the latter, is the steam-launch with its puffing, fussy, little engine, its gay awning, and its three or four bladed screw. Like all other pleasure outfits the steam- launch will vary much in cost, from a few hundreds to many thousands of dollars. The prospective guest of a hospitable yachtsman would do well to master some of the most frequently recurring NAUTICAL TERMS. Aback. — The situation when the wind blows upon the forward sur- face of a sail. Abaft or Aft. — Toward the stern. About. — To put the vessel on the other tack. Anchors. — The "bowers " are the largest anchors of a merchantman and weigh from 4,000 to 5,200 lbs ; " sheet " anchors are smaller and are carried on the sides of the ship ; " stream " anchors are carried inboard and vary from 300 to 1,900 lbs; " kedges " are light anchors for warping the vessel into a new position ; " boat " anchors are for the ship's boats. HOME MANUAL. 105 The anchor is " foul " when caught in the cable; "tripped" when dis- eno-aged from the ground ; "apeak " when the vessel is over it and the cable perpendicular. Large vessels should ride with a length of cable out six times the depth of water. Yachts carry anchors weighing 1 to 1^ lbs. per foot of water line length. Aprox. — A timber at the back of the stem to strengthen it. Ardency. — Tendency to fly up into the wind. Athwart. — Crosswise. Back Stay. — A wire or rope extending from the heads of the upper masts to the vessel's side. '■'■Preventer" back stay, an extra stay while carrying heavy sail. Ballast. — Heavy materials placed in the hold, or built into the keel, to give the vessel stability. Iron, lead, stone, brick, gravel, and sand are used. Banker. — A vessel engaged in the bank fisheries. Bands. — Strips of canvas sewed on to prevent the sail from splitting. Barge. — A large and handsome rowboat, with numerous pairs of cars, for the use of flag officers and high ofiScials. Also a large unrigged freio-hting vessel. Bark. — A three-masted sailing vessel, having square sails on the fore and main masts and fore-and-aft sails on the mizzen mast. Bateau. — A narrow, flat-bottomed, broad skift', sharp at both ends, with flaring sides used by lumbermen while rafting logs in the northern forests of America. Batten. — A long, thin strip of wood, from one to three inches broad^ used in drawing the curves while laying off the lines of a vessel. Beam. — Greatest width of the vessel. " Beams" the timbers reach- ing across the vessel, upon which the deck planks are nailed. Beardini; Line. — The inner edge of the rabbet on a vessel's stem and stern i»ost, and the upper edge of the rabbet on the keel ; it is the line where tlie inner surface of the ])lankiiig comes in contact with those timbers. Beatino. — Tacking to windward. Belay. — To fasten the end of a rope by turns around u pin or cleat. Bend. — To make a sail fast to boom or yard, or a rope to an anchor, sj)ar, or another rope. BlL to the yards. Companion- Way. — Lad small boats of a large vessel; it is clinker l)iiilt, and broad and bliili'iii ronii. .IlKY-MAST. — A fem|i.irar\' nia-^t set up in jilace of one that has been lo.(. no HOME MANUAL. Keel. — The back-bone timber of a ship, on which the whole struc- ture is built. The stem and stern-post are virtually continuations of the keel. Keelson. — A heavy timber, placed upon the floor timbers over the keel and fastened with bolts driven clean through frames and keel. Knee. — A natural elbow or crook of timber, used to connect the deck beams with the side of the vessel. Hanging knees are perpendicular; lodging knees, horizontal. Knot. — The nautical or geographical mile, representing one-sixtieth part of a degree on a great circle of the earth. In order to allow for the differences in circumference of the earth, the knot is considered by the United States Survey as one-sixtieth of a degree on the circumference of an exact sphere, having the same surface as the earth. The knot, or nautical mile, is 6,080|^eet. The land mile is 5,280 feet. Knight-heads. — The strong frame timbers in the bow of a vessel, each side of the stem, rising up to the gunwale and serving to help hold the bowsprit in position. Lacing. — The rope used to secure the heads of the sails to the yard or gaff. Lanyard. — The small rope rove through the holes in the dead-eyes in setting up the shrouds of a vessel and serving to draw the shrouds taut. Larboard. — The left hand side of a vessel. Large. — A favoring wind when it comes upon the beam or quarter ; the vessel advances with sheets slackened or flowing and the bowlines are not in use at all. Sailing-large is sailing with a favoring wind. Lateen-sail. — A triangular sail, hanging from a yard which is tilted up at an angle of about 45° with the deck. Laying off, or Down. — Delineation of a ship's lines to full size on a smooth floor. Leech. — The sides of square sails and the after edge of a fore-and- aft sail. Lee Helm. — When the helm has to be kept over to the leeward side to press the vessel's head closer into the wind. Leeward. — The side awa}^ from the wind. Linings. — The pieces of canvas sewed on various parts of a sail to preserve it against chafing and injury. Log-line. — The apparatus for measuring a vessel's speed. LoG-BOOK. — The daily record of the progress of the vessel and inci- dents of the voyage. Luff. — The forward edge of a fore-and-aft sail. To luff' is to steer up into the wind. HOME MANUAL. Ill Lut?-SAIL. — A quadrilateral sail, spread at the top by a yard, which is hoisted to the mast by a block set on the yard about one-third of its lensrth from the forward end. Seen in the fishins; boats of Louisiana. Lurch. — A sudden roll of the vessel. Marling-spike. — A round, tapering piece of wood or iron, used to separate the strands of a rope to introduce another, when splicing. Masts. — -The stout perpendicular poles which sustain the sails oi a vessel. In two-masted vessels they are called respectively the fore and main. In three-masters they are called the fore, main, and mizzen. A fourth mast would be called the jigger, and a fifth, the mizzen jigger. If the height of the sails require an upper mast, the latter is called the top- mast ; if one above that, the topgallant mast, which is made in one spar, but is marked otf into topgallant, royal, and skysail masts. Moulding. — The width of any timber in a direction from inside the vessel outward. Martingale or Dolphin Striker. — A short, perpendicular spar beneath the end of the bowsprit. Metacentre. — The point where a vertical line drawn through the centre of buo^^ancy is met by another vertical line, drawn through the new centre of buoyancy when the vessel is inclined to one side. Missing Stays. — Failure to go about while trying to tack. Mizzen. — See "Mast." Oakum. — Tarred rope picked to pieces and used for caulking seams in the planking. Orlop Deck. — The lowest or false deck in a shi])-hold; it is usually a row of beams oidy. Contraction of "over-loop." Partners. — Planks thicker than the rest of the deck to support the masts where they pierce the deck. Peak. — The outer end of the gaff. Points (Reef-points). — Pieces of white cordage, whose lengths are nearly double the circumference of tlie yard or boom, attached to the sails in rows, and used for lessening the area presented by a sail to the \\ ind. l^iTciiiNo. — The rising mikI Ijilling of a vessel, fore-and-aft, when among waves. I'oRT. — Till' I;irl)();ii-(1 or Ictt haii the desire to pant, and you have leai'iied the Indiairs secret that i-nables him fo run steaflilv ibr hours. 120 HOME MANUAL. Of course, where it is practicable, systematic training under the super- vision of a teacher, who will know where your weak points lie, and appoint such exercises as shall correct them, will be the best and most satisfactory. These hints are for the busy people who think they have not time for athletic training. But of whatever nature your calisthenic exercises may be, never omit the brisk rubbing down before retirino- at night, it opens the pores, quickens the circulation, and removes the minute worn out particles of the scarf skin. HORSEMANSHIP. Horseback riding, once so universal in this country, gradually fell into disuse until the equestrian, whether man or woman, venturing to ride through the city streets to gain the shady park or quiet country roads, attracted almost as much attention as a parade or that joy of tb^ small boy, a circus. Fortunately, however, there has been a revival of this delightful, healthgiving exercise and all who can are eagerly acquiring this most beneficial accomplishment, in choosing a horse the points of vital importance are legs, strong; hips, wide; chest, deep; back, short; with eyes and wind perfectly sound. The riding equipments demand much care in their selection ; there are three kinds of bits, the snatHe, the curb, and a combination of the two. A handsome pig skin saddle is the best, as even an ordinary horse looks much better for being properly equipped. 'None but good riders should use a spur; for ordinary exercise a whip is all that is necessary. The proper dress for a man is a short coat and a pair of tight trousers, a high hat, jockey cap. or soft, felt hat. A woman should wear a neatly fitting tailor made wais'-, and a skirt reach- ing just below the feet when in the saddle ; high boots, trousers meeting the tops of these boots and a high hat. The short skirt is weighted and has two elastic straps which are adjusted after Eicunting, one passing over the right instep, the other under the left heel. T'ap West Point rule for mounting, which leaves the left hand free, is the best for a man ; a woman places her right hand on the pommel of the saddle, her left foot HOME MANUAL. 12i m the left band of her assistant, her left hand on his right shoulder, and his right hand under her left armpit. Her assistant counts audibly "one, two, three," and at "three" she springs and he straightens himself thus lifting her into the saddle. Sit firmly in tlie saddle, expand the chest by throwing back the shoulders and keeping them equally square to the front ; keep the head erect, hold the reins in the left hand and keep the arms down, the elbows just touching the sides but not pressing against them. Having mastered the art of riding, there are exciting and invigo- rating sports that may be indulged in ; as polo, hunting buflalo, deer, wild foxes or, w^here none of these are practicable, a drag hunt furnishes a good excuse for a brisk ride, a good supper, and a merry time generally. In a drag hunt a bag of anise seed is dragged for several miles the day before, and left snugly hidden away. AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY. For luring the invalid into the invigorating sunshine ; for developing artistic instincts, delicacy ot touch, proper appreciation of the beautiful, and for the collection of pleasant souvenirs, amateur photography stands unrivalled. Though sums as large as $10,000 have been "spent on this recreation, very good results have been obtained with a $10 camera; and although one may devote his life to the study and still find something to learn, the process has been so simplified that even a child can master it. A substantial and satisfactory outfit may be purchased at from $25 to $40, while the detective camera preferred by some tourists cost $50. The novice will do well to remember that the "dry plate," before being used, must never be examined by any except a red light, and the " ruby lantern " will therefore be an important item in his outfit. After a little practice, however, he will learn to adjust his plate in the holder while in absolute darkness. The plate should be touched only along the edges but must be carefully dusted before being put into the holder. Having selected his view, the operator's first care must be to adjust the legs of his tripod so that the camera is level. Next he covers his head and instrument with the "focussing cloth," uncaps the lens, and slides the movable front for- .vard or backward until the blurred image he saw at first has grown clear and distinct; then he caps the lens, takes out the ground glass, slides in its place a plate holder; meanwhile keeping all but the front of his instrument carefully shroiided with the "focussing cloth; uncaps his lens, counts the requisite number of seconds, and replaces the cap. Cloudy days, dimly lighted rooms, and moonlight scenes require a longer exposure. A-* instantaneous ])icture8 cannot be taken with a cheap lens, the device i)V .-ecuring such impressions is only lifted to costlv cameras. 122 HOME MANUAL. RIFLE AND SHOT-GUN. As an amusement having a practical side, a knowledge of the use of lirearms stands pre-eminent. In choosing a gun, let it be the breech- loader, selected in reference to the measurements of its prospective owner. A boy's gun may be purchased for $15, but for & man it is better policy to buy a $50 double-barreled one. Though cartridges may be bought, ready-made, the thorough sportsman will delight in their manufacture. A cleaning-rod costs $1, but just as good a one can be whittled at a cost only of time and dexterity. Before experimenting with a loaded gun, practice position and aim. Having set up your target, take up your position, at say thirty yards away. Fix both eyes on the target, raise your gun, supporting the barrel with your left hand, and havii.g the fore- finger of 3'our right on the trigger. J^otice the position when the bead on your gun is in a line with your eyes and the target. Practice this until you can take proper aim even with your eyes closed. Having learned to aim and fire, accustom yourself to treating your gun always as if it were loaded, i^ever draw it through a fence, from a wagon or a boat by the muzzle. Never point it at a companion, and in the field carry it over the shoulder, with barrels pointing upward, or reversed and pointing at the ground. If the weapon is a rifle, remember the increased lensrth of range, w^iich makes a rifle bullet dangerous a mile or two avvav. Game hunted in America includes quail, snipe, grouse, woodcock, wild geese, and ducks, pigeons, plover, squirrels, raccoons, deer, elks, moose, and mountain goats. HOME MANUAL 123 TRAPPING. Where gunning is impracticable, trapping is often an important auxiliary for adding a dainty dish to the camper's meal or for ridding hen-house or cabbage patch of the midnight marauder. Where the trap is needed for continual use, the manufactured steel one is most satisfactory because of its greater durability, but the amateur trapper will derive much more pleasure if he makes his trap himself. For squirrels or rab- bits a wooden box 24 inches Ions; and from 8 to 10 inches wide, having; the bait attached to a trigger inside, in such a manner that nibbling the bait causes the door to shut, is simple but elfective. The cell trap used for muskrats, minks, and weasels has a swinging wire door hinged to the top and resting on the bottom of the trap ; the door will open only in- ward. The hungry pest easily pushes the door open and when it falls shut he is ensnared. The professional trapper does not wash the pelt, because that rots it, nor use alum nor salt to cure it, because they would unnecessarily shrink it. If it is the skin of a deer, moose or buffalo, he dries it by stretching it on the ground, driving wooden pegs at the corners to keep it even. Pelts should always be cured in a moderatel}^ dry place, and on a flat surface. SWIMMING. However pleasant a pastime boating may be, it should never be indulged in until one has learned to swim. Smooth, shallow water with a shelving shore is best for the beginner. Wade out to the depth of three or four feet, wet your head, then turn your face toward the land. Return until the water is no deeper than your arm is long ; support yourself by letting the tips of your fingers touch bottom, now lie down, letting the body sink below the surface, but throwing the head back so that the chin 18 about f»n a level with the surface, one arm and both legs being free practice the stroke, and occasionally raise the supporting hand, until you have gained enough confidence in the upholding power of the water to trust yourself to its buoyancy. Then wade out several feet further and attcmj.t to swim in, putting down the supporting arm as at first, if this attempt prove a failure. Learn to swim in clothing. The ability to do so may be invaluable in an emergency; to keep the eyes open under water and, if attacked by crami>, change the manner of stroke, make several quick motions with the member affected, regardless of ])ain, but if the cramp continues, float ba<-k to shore, the great danger lies in becoming frightc?iod. In learning to dive, it is well to ])lug the ears with oil- Kiturat<'d raw (•«»tton. Never hat lie in less than two hours after a lienrtv meal ; seldom remain in tlie water above 30 minutes, and always wit the 124 HOME MANUAL. head before entering the water. Dr. Benjamin Howard, of ISTew York, prescribes the following treatment in apparent cases of drowning : 1. Upon the nearest dry spot expose the patient to a free current of air. Rip the clothing away from the waist and give a stinging slap upon the pit of the stomach. If this fails to arouse the patient, proceed to force and drain away the water which has entered tlie chest and stomach, according to the following rule : 2. Turn the patient upon his face, the pit of the stomach being raised upon a folded garment above the level of the mouth. For a moment or two make steady pressure upon the back of the stomach and chest and repeat once or twice until fluid ceases to flow from the mouth. 3. Quickly turn the patient upon his back, with the bundle of clothing benaath it, so as to raise the lower part of the breast bone higher than the rest of the body. Kneel beside or astride of the patient, and so place your hands upon either side of the pit of the stomach and the front part of the lower ribs that the fingers fall naturally in the spaces between them and point toward the ground. Xow, grasping the waist and using your knees as a pivot, throw your whole weight forward, as if you wished to force the contents of the chest and stomach out of the mouth. Steadily increase the pressure while you count " one, two, three." Then let go suddenly, after a final push which springs you to an erect kneeling position. Remain erect upon your knees while you count " one, two ; " then throw your weight forward and proceed as before. Repeat the process at first about five times a minute, increasing gradually to about fifteen times a minute, and continue it with the regularity of the natural breathing which you are tr^nng to imitate. If another person be present, let him with the left hand hold the tip of the tongue out of the left side of the mouth with the corner of a pocket-handkerchief, while with the rio-ht hand he grasps both wrists and pins them to the ground above the patient's head. 4. When breathing first returns, occasionally dash a little cold water violently into the face. As soon as. breathing has been perfectly restored, strip and dry the patient rapidly and completely, and wrap him in blankets only. Give hot brandy, a teaspoonful every five minutes, the first half hour ; and a tablespoonful every fifteen minutes for an hour after that. If the limbs are cold, apply friction. Allow abundance of fresh air, and let the patient have perfect rest. Practical suggestions: Avoid delay. Promptness is of first import- ance. A moment lost at the start may be a life lost. Do not waste any HOME MANUAL. 125 time trying to or'ive shelter, because shelter oftener harms than helps the patient. Prevent crowding around the patient. However difficult it may be to enforce this rule, it must be enforced. Friends must not obstruct the circulation of air, nor engage the patient in conversation when rallying. Take special care to avoid giving stimulants before the patient is well enough to swallow. Injudicious attempts in this direction tend to obstruct respiration and may choke the patient. Avoid hurried and irregular motions. The excitement of the moment is always great and is likely to agitate an inexperienced man. Just as a flickering candle moved carelessly goes out, so the heart, when its beating is imperceptible, needs little cross motion or interruption to stop its action. The movements of Rule 3 should, therefore, be performed with delibera- tion and regularity. Avoid an overheated room. The animal heat which is needed cannot be supplied from without ; it must be generated within the system. This is best promoted by a free current of air and internal stimulants. The vital heat resulting is best retained in the patient's body by blankets alone. Avoid giving up the patient too soon. At any time within one or two hours you may be on the very threshold of success, though no sign of it be visible. Several times success has been known to follow half an hour's apparently useless eflbrt. Rest and careful nursing should be continued for a few days after resuscitation, because otherwise various chest troubles mio;ht ensue LAWN TENNIS. For more than five hundred years, some variety of tennis has been known and played. Originating in France, it was a favorite amusement in Spain and Italy before it made its way to England; yet Chaucer refers to it in 1380 as a well-established and popular game. Henry VIII and Elizabeth in England, Louis XI, Louis XII, Francis I, Charles IX, and Henry IV, of France, were all devoted to the sport of Court Tennis, from wliich the modern Lawn Tennis is descended. In laying out a court, let it extend irom north to south with a margin of fifteen feet at the ends and ton ieet at the sides. In a court of 78 feet, the base lines should be 27 feet, tlie service lines 21 feet from the net. Marble dust is the best material for marking. A good service is the most im])ortant feature of the game. A clever method of j)ractice snggested by an expert is to fasten a hoop about two feet in diaiiK'tcr npon a three-foot stake backed bv a wall. Take your station 40 Ieet away and practise serving thronuli the 126 HOME MANUAL. hoop. Unless jon are left-handed, it is best to keep a little to the left of the court. "Watch your opponent's eye ; he will generally glance in tne direction he means to serve. " The proper moment to take a bounding ball is when its upward momentum is spent, and it is about to fall." Of all out-of-door games, lawn-tennis now ranks as prime favorite. It is a very easy matter to learn to play ; but to fully enjoy the exhilarating amusement, a suitable costume should be provided. The best material for this is flannel, because it affords the most perfect protec- tion against cold and heat. The style must be without draperies — any catalogue of paper patterns will supply pretty designs. One of the best is a pleated skirt, with a Jersey jacket matching it in color. Sew the skirt on a sleeveless waist lining, which, if possible, should be of the color of the Jersey waist. This answers several purposes, the Jersey will tit better over it, the colored lining will prevent the white under-clothing from showing through the meshes, as it stretches during the different changes of position in the game, and the weight of the skirt will be removed from the hips to the shoulders thus affording far more freedom of movement. The head-covering should be either a crocheted Tam O'Shanter, or a soft cap of the dress material. The shoes, if possible, should have rubbei soles, but if these cannot be obtained, take the heels from a pair of ordi- nary shoes, and they will answer the purpose very tolerably. HOME MANUAL. 127 The best ground for the court is turf, though asphalt, and earth, mixed with fine gravel, are sometimes U!?ed. The balls must not measure less than 2^ inches, nor more than 2| inches in diameter, and their weight must not be less than 1 and [^ ounces nor more than two ounces. The following rules have been adopted by the United States j^ationai Lawn-Tennis Association, and will enable any one who studies them to readily learn the game. It is not, however, invariably necessary to have an umpire or referee. RULES FOR LAWN-TENNIS. 1. The Game. — The choice of sides, and the right to serve in the first game, shall be decided by toss ; provided that, if the winner of the toss choose the right to serve, the other player shall have choice of sides, and vice versa. If one player choose the court, the other may elect not to serve. 2. The players shall stand on opposite sides of the net ; the player who first delivers the ball shall be called the server^ and the other the striker-out. 3. At the end of the first game the striker-out shall become server, and the server shall become striker-out ; and so on, alternately, m all the subsequent games of the set, or series of sets. 4. The server shall serve with one foot on the base line, and with the other foot behind that line, but not necessarily upon the ground. He shall deliver the service from the right to the left courts alternatelj^, beginning from the right. 5. The ball served must drop between the service line, half-court lino, and side line of the court, diagonally opposite to that from which it was served. 6. It is a fault if the server fails to strike the ball, or if the ball served drop in the net, or beyond the service line, or out of court, or in the wrong court, or if the server do not stand as directed by law 4. 7. A ball falling on a line is regarded as falling in the court bounded by that line. 8. A fault cannot l>o taken. 0. After a fault the server shall serve again from tlie same court from which ho served that fault, unless it was a fault because he served from the wrong court. 10. A fault carmot he claimed alter the next service is delivered. 128 HOME MANUAL. 11. The server shall not serve till the striker-out is ready. If the latter attempt to return the service, he shall he deemed ready. 12. A service or fault, delivered when the striker-out is not ready, counts for nothing. 13. The service shall not be volleyed, L e., taken before it has touched the ground. 14. A ball is in play on leaving tha server's raeker, except as pro- vided for in law 6. 15. It is a good return, although the ball touch the net; but a service, otherwise good, which touches the net, shall count for nothing. 16. The server wins a stroke, if the striker-out volley the service, or if he fail to return the service or the ball in play ; or if he return the service or the ball in play so that it drops outside of his opponent's court ; or if he otherwise lose a stroke, as provided by law 18. 17. The striker-out wins a stroke, if the server serve two consecu- tive faults ; or if he return the ball in play so that it drops outside of his opponent's court; or if he otherwise lose a stroke, as provided by law 18. 18. Either player loses a stroke, if he return the service or the ball in play so that it touches a post of the net ; or if the ball touch him or anything that he wears or carries, except his racket in the act of striking ; or if he touch the ball with his racket more than once ; or if he touch the net or any of its supports while the ball is in play ; or if he volley the ball before it has passed the net. 19. In case any player is obsti acted by any accident, the ball shall be considered a lei. 20. On either player winning his first stroke, the score is called 15 for that player ; on either player winning his second stroke, the score is called 30 for that player ; on either player winning his third stroke, the score is called 40 for that player; and tlie fourth stroke won by either player is scored game for that player, except as below. If both players have won three strokes, the score is called deuce ; and the next stroke won by either player is scored advantage for that player. If the same player wins the next stroke, he wins the game ; if he loses the next stroke, the score returns to deuce ; and so on, until one player wins the two strokes immediately following the score of deuce, when game is scored for that player. 21. The player who first wins six games, wins the set ; except as follows: If both players win five games, the score is called games all; and the next game won by either player is scored advantage game for HOME MANUAL. 129 that player. If the same player witis the next game, he wins the set ; if he loses the next game, the score returns to games all ; and so on, until either player wins the two games immediately following the score of games all, when he wins the set. But individual clubs, at their own tournaments, may modify this rule at their discretion. 22. The players shall change sides at the end of every set ; but the umpire, on appeal from either player, before the toss for choice, may direct the players to change sides at the end of every game of each set, if, in liis opinion, either side has a distinct advantage, owing to the sun, wind, or any o):her accidental cause ; but if the appeal be made after the toss for choice, the umpire can only direct the players to change sides at the end of every game of the odd or deciding set. 23. When a series of sets is played, the player who served in the last game of one set shall be striker-out in the first game of the next. 24. The referee shall call the game after an interval of five minutes between sets, if either player so order, 25. The above laws shall apply to the three-handed and four-handed games, except as below : 28. In the three-handed game, the single player shall serve in every alternate game. 27. In the four-handed game, the pair who have the right to serve in the first game shall decide which partner shall do so, and the opposing pair shall decide in like manner for second game. The partner of the player who served in the first game shall serve in the third, and the partner of the player who served in the second game shall serve in the fourth ; and the same order shall be maintained in all the subsequent games of the set. 28. At the beginning of the next set, either partner of the pair which struck out iti the last game of the last set may serve, and the same privilege is given to their opponents in the second game of the new set. 29. The players shall take the service alternately throughout the game; a player caimot receive a service delivered to his partner; and the order of service and striking out once established shall not be alteroa, nor shall the striker-out change courts to receive the service, till the end of tlie set. ;K). It is a fault if the ball scrsed does not drop between tlie service line, lialt-<-(tiirt line, and service Hide-line of the court, diagonally opposite to that from which it ^vas served. 'j\. In matches, tlie decision of the umpire shall bo final. Should there be two umi)ires, they shall dividi^ the court l)etween tliem, and the decisiorj ol" each shall he liiial iti ITh siiare <»1' the court. 130 HOME MANUAL. ODDS. A bisque is one point which can be taken by the receiver of the odds at anv time in the set except as follows : (a) A bisque cannot be taken after a service is delivered! (b) The server may not take a bisque after a fault, but the striker- out may do so. One or more bisques may be given to increase or diminish other odds. Half-fifteen is one stroke given at the beginning of the second, fourth, and every subsequent alternate game of a set. Fifteen is one stroke given at the beginning of every game of a set. Half-thirty is one stroke given at the beginning of the first game, two strokes given at the beginning of the second game, and so on, alternately, in all the subsequent games of the set. Thirty is two strokes given at the beginning of every game of a set. Half-forty is two strokes given at the beginning of the first game, three strokes given at the beginning of the second game, and so on, alter- nately, in all the subsequent games of the set. Forty is three strokes given at the beginning of every game of a set. Half -court: The players may agree into which half-court, right or left, the giver of the odds shall play, and the latter loses the stroke if the ball returned by him drop out-side any of the lines which bound that half court. TOSS. This pretty, new open air game, often played at lawn-parties, is very quickly learned and affords much amusement. Provide a decorated waste-basket, two stakes, one red and one blue, — if the game is to be played by two parties, — and nine card-board circles, three blue, three white, and three red. Set the basket on the turf and thrust the stakes into the ground directly opposite to each other and each one six feet from the basket. The object of the players is to throw the disks into the basket. They are rated according to the color, blue counts three, white two, and red one. "When played by sides, each plays five rounds, ninety being the highest score possible for any player, but it is optional whether sides are taken or not. The account is kept by the hostess, and the player who has the highest score receives a prize. HOME MANUAL. 13J OUT-DOOR GAMES FOR CHILDREN". Across the ocean, in the " Vaterland," the little German children have quite a variety of games, usually played in the open air, some of which doubtless will bt new to their American cousins. CATCHING THE WEASEL. The whole party, except one, form a circle. The one who is left out runs two or three times round the ring, and then drops a handkerchief at the feet of a playmate, who must dash swiftly forward to catch the" wea eel" — numelv, the one who fluni^-down the handkerchief. '\Vliilo running, «he fiinirs: "Catch the weasel in the wood. Now I've lost it; now I've found it. Catch my nimhle little weasel." When the game is well played, it is wry lively and amusing. All the girls watch to flli utes without letting the feather come to the earth. BLIND man's march. An open space of turf is chosen and a tree, stake, or pole selected for a goal, on which all sorts of trifles, fruit, garlands, flowers, etc., are hung as prizes. Then a circle is drawn around the goal, about six or eight feet distant. The players first dance hand in hand around the ring, then in couples around the tree, and finally form two straight lines. Lots are then drawn to decide which row shall make the blind march first, and all in that rank are blind-folded and led by the others forty or fifty paces away from the ring and formed in couples in a semi-circle. The game is prettier when a march is sung, to which the blind-folded couple keep time. Only a very few reach the goal ; most go far astray. If any couples disagree about the direction to be taken, they can separate and each pur- sue a different j^ath. Whoever reaches the tree, or even stands inside the circle when the game is over, receives a prize. The march is considered at an end when the singing ceases. Then all the plaj'ers take ofi" their bandages. There is plenty of laughing, for the couples are generally standing everywhere except near the tree. The game begins again by the other side commencing the blind march. THE BEGGAR. A life-size pasteboard figure of a man holding a hat in his hand is needed. This hat has a hole, which serves as an opening to a calico bag. The players, standing at a certain distance, try to throw a coin or some small fruit into the beggar's hat. The one who succeeds most frequently receives some trifling prize. THE NAUGHTY STRAW MAN. A straw figure, completely dressed, is fastened to a tree in such a way that it hangs about a foot from the ground. He must have one arm lastcued akimbo to his side, and the other hanging free. After the play- ers have had their eyes bandaged and been furnished with a stick, the game begins. The object is to thrust the stick through the opening. Whoever succeeds in doing so can claim a prize. Of course, it often hap- pens that the player misses, and receives a light pat for the clumsiness from the straw man's hanging arm. Tf any })layer misses the goal and p:iHsf hygiene. If one resides in cities, where the' air is often impure, the vapor and Turkish l)iithH, frequently taken, will be of marked benefit to the com- plexion. W these are not obtainable, an ordinary bath must be had every morning ; but the face should be washed in rain mater. Two or three times a week the face can be washed with a latlier of absolaldy pare soap, or with a little Fuller's earth sprinkled in the hand or flesh glove. But care must be taken to wash it ofi" thest remedy is a milk diet, with an occasional dose of castor oil. No local treatment is necessary. NETTLE RASH. Tliis affection looks like the red marks caused by the stroke of a whip, and causes a pri<-king, tingling feeling, like a stinging nettle, hence its name. It is generally caused by indigestion, and some people have it after eating oat-racal or even eggs. In its chronic form, it is almost always occasioned by some interna) difieartc, and u physician should be consulted. Ifacute, use the following wash: 144 HOME MANUAL. Carbonatis ammonia , 1 drachm. Plumb acetatis 2 drachms, Aquae rosearum 8 ounces. If the eruption is due to indigestible diet, it is well to take a dose of castor-oil, and afterward to avoid such food as shell-fish, preserved meats, oalty or greasy dishes, particularly pastry. Green vegetables, salad, and ripe fruit should be freely eaten. FLUSHING OF THE FACE. This affection usually indicates a general disturbance of the health, and may be due to either ansemia or plethora. If the former, tonics, nourishing food, plenty of exercise, and fresh air are required. If the latter, aperient and cooling medicines, active walking, and manual labor are the best remedies. In both cases neither bandages nor laces should be allowed to impede the circulation of the blood in any part of the body, the sleeping room should be thoroughly ventilated both night and day, and a couple of ripe pears, oranges, or figs should be eaten every morning while fasting. If they cannot be had, dried figs, soaked in water over night, or stewed prunes may be substituted. Flushing can sometimes be checked by bathing the face in very hot water, or putting the hands and feet in hot water to which a handful of mustard may be added. Extreme nervousness and hysteria cause flushing ; but in this case it is only a symptom and cannot be treated except by curing the disease. Eating rapidly, reading, writing, or using the eyes and brain during or immediately after a meal frequently occasion it. No exertion should be demanded of mind or body for at least a quarter of an hour after every meal ; but a nap in an arm-chair is far less beneficial thaa a little gentle exercise in the open air. TAN AND FRECKLES. These discolorations are of two kinds — summer and winter freckles. The former, due to the action of the sun's rays, soon pass away ; but to aid their removal the following is an excellent lotion : Sal-ammoniac (powdered) 1 drachm, Distilled water 1 pint, Eau de Cologne 2 fluid drachma* Mix and apply with a rag, night and morning. Another and more powerful wash is : Bichloride of mercury 6 grains, Hydrochloric acid (pure) 1 fluid drachm, Distilled water ^ pint. Mix t;hese ingredients thoroughly, then add HOME MANUAL. 146 Rose-water ^ .^ , . . ^2 fluid ounces of each, Rectinea spirit. Glycerine 1 ounce. Mix, and use night and morning. In cases where the skin is uniformly discolored and browned, the following wash will be more efficacious : Fresh lemon juice | Rose-water J- Equal parts. Rectified spirit j Mix thoroughly. The next day strain the clear portion through muslin, and bathe the face ever}^ night and morning with the lotion, wiping the skin afterward with a soft towel. TO WHITEN THE SKIN. Put one quarter of an ounce of red rose leaves into one quarter of a pint of fresh lemon juice and one quarter pint of brandy. Press, strain, and pour into bottles. It is best to decant the day after the infusion. CHRONIC TAN AND FRECKLES. Permanent tan and freckles are due to difterent causes from t> „ sun- beat, and require different remedies. Usually there is some di>'^xder of the liver; but there may be another disease. If they are liver-spots the color will be yellowish-brown, the surface smooth, and the edges sharply defined. They most frequently appear on the fore-head, temples, and around the regions of the mouth. As the stains are beneath the epidermis it is difficult to remove them by external applications, yet the following lotion has often proved beneficial : Jlydragyri chlor. corrosivi gr. vi Aininoiiii chloridi purilicati 5 ss M ist. amygdalae amar 5 i v. Mix as a lotion. This wash should be used twice a day, and its effect aided by i ■' liver-pill," I'odophyllum is best. Another excellent lotion is the following: Ilydragyri chloridi corrosivi gr. vi Zinci siilpliatis 5 ^s* F'liimlti-acetatia 5 ^^s A(jii:i' roHw ^ iv. Mix us an oiritiiu'iit. i Sh<^»uld fill-- wasli prove irritating, Jisc the lollowing ointment: 146 HOME MANUAL. Bismuthi siib-nitratis 5 i Ungeneti liydrarg. animon 5 i Ungeneti aquoe rosse ad ^ i ERYTHEMA. Sometimes an eruption of small pink spots suddenly appears on the face, neck, and arms. The disorder usually lasts only a lew hours, rarely longer than a day, and is often supposed to be caused by the stings of insects; but it is a mistaken idea, the trouble being due to irregularity of the bodily functions, debility, indigestion, or want of fresh air. A tonic is generally needed and quinine commonly effects a cure. The more serious cutaneous diseases, such as et^zema, erysipelas, etc., need the care of a physician, therefore no form of the treatment is suggested here. REDNESS OF THE SKIN. Many women are much annoyed, when the season for wearing ball dresses comes around, by the red and rough appearance of their arms and necks. Powder is useless to remedy the evil, since the white coating speedily rubs off upon the broadcloth of the wearer's luckless partner. There is a very simple expedient, however, which only requires a little time and patience in the application. Ten minutes' friction every night with a sponge and warm water,* followed by the application of some cool- ing emollient, such as cold-cream, rarely fails to make the skin smooth iml white, but of course some little time must be allowed for the process. To whiten the hands, use a flesh brush and nearly hot water. Rul) briskly, and be careful to dry thoroughly. At night apply a little almond paste, or work an almond tablet round and round as one would use soap when washing; then, after a little friction, wipe the grease lightly offhand there will be no need to sleep in gloves. ]^ever use scissors, except for a torn nail or some other accident, but employ instead the little pointed bone instrument which can be had at any druggist's for keeping the skin away from the nails, and cleaning the tips. For the removal of stains or trifling discolorations, rub a few drops of iemon juice on the dry hands, and work them about until nearly dry. ON THE USE OF ROUGE. The widest difference of opinion exists as to the desirability of using rouge, yet since there are many persons who, spite of argument, will ap- ply it to supply their fading bloom, it is best that they should have the beautifying agent in a harmless form. And, in point of fact, there is less danger in applying many preparations of rouge than in many of the ioi-ms *The Oreme froide aux Concomhres, sold by the Postal Toilet Co , Box 255, P. O., Washing- ton, D. C , is the best preparation known to the writer for this purpose. HOME MANUAL. 147 in which white face powder is oiiered for sale. The best rouge is manu- factured from carmine — obtained from cochineal — carthamum, and orcanet. A cheaper and inferior quality is made of red sulphur of mercury or of Vermillion. The former — red sulphur of mercury — is exceedingly dan- gerous and should on no account be applied to the skin. But the use of the others cannot be said to imperil the health. Carthamum powder is obtained from a plant known as "bastard saf- fron," and when used as rouge is usually mixed with talc de Vcnise, which is often used with benefit as a dressing for wounds, and therefore can surely be safely rtv'ommended as a cosmetic. The best of the liquid rouges may be i)repared as follows: Powdered carmine 1^ drachms, Liquid ammonia 5 drachms. Put the above mixture into a bottle with a glass stopper, stand it in a cool place, and shake it well occasionall}^ until thoroughly mixed. Then add the following, in which two drachms of essence of rose have been mixed : Rose-water 8 ounces, Rectified spirit 1^ ounces. When completely mixed, dissolve in the liquid fine gum arable one-half ounce, let the whole stand a few days, then bottle. Carmine, which gives the color to the mixture, dissolves completely in liquor of ammonia, so that its purity can thus be readily ascertained. The preparation is known by the name of " Bloom of Roses." THE FIGURE. A perfect figure is rarer than a beautiful face, for the sin of tight lacing is sure to produce high shoulders and excessively large hips, and even the women of the present generation are slow to renounce a practice dear to their grandmothers. Corsets should support wdthout compress- ing, and now it is fortunately an easy matter to obtain garments manu- factured to fill these requirements. Those made of canvas are best be- cause they permit the escape of perspiration. The extremes dreaded by women who have lost the slender, yet roundecl projiortion.s of youth are obesity and leanness, and since the complaints of the victims of the former are most frequently heard, the r^jmedies sliall be first considered. OBESITY. Over-plumpness is frelanations are required, or some very necessary details might be omitted. And here again the question of temperament must not be overlooked. A nervous, anxious person will never gain flesh like a placid, quiet one. Worry is fatal to avoirdupois. The first step toward a comfortable de- gree of plumpness, therefore, is to avoid fretting and irritability, and this will doubtless be more difficult for nervous persons than the hygienic rules to be observed. The first of these is to retire early and remain in bed as late as the performance of necessary duties will permit. Before rising drink a cup of warm boiled milk or cocoa, then take a warm— not hot— bath, and dress leisurely. At breakfast drink more boiled milk, cocoa, or chocolate ; but ri.ither tea nor coflee. K;it mashed potato cooked with butter or cream or, if more palatiiblc, sweetened wheat or oat-meal porridge. Fresh bread is Ix-tter than t(mst, and honey and cream-cheese may be added to the bill of fare. For lunch take slightly warmed milk, mixed with an equal portion of Apollinaris or soda-wiiter, otlierwise it miuhl be hard lo digest. \']n\ no meat ; but use; instead potatoes, e*- -^ ">. --^ -:^» 202 HOME MANUAL. FOREIGN SUBSTANCES IN THE EYES, NOSE, EARS, STOMACH, ETC. EYES. EVER rub the eye. If the substance is small, the flow of tears caused by the irritation will often suflice to remove it. If not, draw down the lower lid by the fore and middle lingers, while the suft'erer looks upward, and carefully examine the inner surface of the lid for the object. If not found the upper lid should be turned over, and this can be accomplished in the following way : Tell the patient to look downward, then take the centre lashes of the upper lid between the fore- finger and thumb of the left hand, drawing the lid downward and a little way from the eye-ball. Then place the smaller end of a pencil or pen-holder held in the right hand on the centre of the lid about half an inchfrom the margin and with a C[uick movement turn the lid over the point of the pencil, which should at the same mo- ment be pressed slightly downward. Then by pressing the lid slightly backward against the eye, the whole surface is displayed. If the object is visible it can be gently wiped away with a bit of soft cloth or by a stream of soft water from a sponge. If sand or dust has got into the eye, proceed in the same way. After it has been removed, the irritation pro- duced may make the patient imagine it is still there. Never use a poultice or thick cloth on the eyes. Lime in the eye is a dangerous matter. Turn the lid and allow a mixture of one part vinegar to eight of warm water to run freely over the surface. Then apply a few drops of sweet or castor-oil and wash the eye thoroughly by pouring into it a stream of luke-warm water from a sponge. An oculist should be seen as soon as possible. OBSTRUCTIONS IN THE NOSE. Any obstruction in the nostril of a child is usually from some object thrust into it in play, such as a button, bean, pebble, or fruit-stone. To get rid of them, first try blowing the nose hard, or endeavor to produce sneezing by giving snuft'or tickling the nose, or tell the child to draw in a long breath and then give him a smart slap on the back. Some one of these plans may dislodge it, if not, the sooner a physician is sent for, the better, for in some cases, for instance when peas or beans have lodged in HOME MANUAL. 203 the nose, the moisture causes them to swell and thej sometimes prove very difficult to extract. If a physician is not to be had, the attempt may be made to remove the obstruction by a bent hair-pin, a bodkin, the handle of a salt-spoon, or something of that kind. But this must be done with extreme care. OBJECTS IN THE EAR. The removal of objects from the ear is a far more delicate and dangerous matter than from the nose, and special instruments are usually needed. Yet, if it is impossible to obtain medical aid, something may be done. But abrays remember that the outer passage to the ear is very deep and extremely delicate. Any rough treatment may produce serious injury. If the object is a metal or a mineral substance, syringe the ear thoroughly, the patient should meanwhile hold the head with the face bent far down, as in this position gravity lends some assistance. Very gentle effi3rts may be made to remove the obstruction by means of a crochet needle, a bodkin, or an ear-spoon, if the latter can be had. But always bear in mind that great harm may be done by the least harshness. If live insects get into the ear, oil or glycerine or salt and water may be poured in. Oil, however, is pronounced by most medical au- thorities to be the best remedy. STOMACH. When coins, marbles, slate pencils, or nails are swallowed, never give a purgative. Give plenty of good, solid food, batter pudding, porridge, etc., so that the foreign substance will be surrounded and carried through the intestines without injuring them. WIND-PIPE. If any object gets lodged in the wind-pipe, a blow on the back with the palm of the hand, or a quick, strong squeeze of the chest may aid in dislodging it. HEMORRHAGES. The sight of blood is always alarming, and frequently so terrifies nervous people that they are unable to give the necessary help. The remedies, however, are very simple, and can bo quickly and easily ap- plied by the most inexperienced. iVo.se. — Bleeding from the nose is often merely an eftbrt of nature to get rid of an excess of blood that has accumulated in the system ; but, on the other hand, it may be so great as to endanger life. If this is the case, of course medical aid should be instantly summoned ; but, meantime, the 204 HOME MANUAL. best remedy is to snuff salt and water or vinegar up the nostrils. A strong solution of alum in warm water is also beneficial ; but vinegar is pleasanter, and will rarely fail to stop the bleeding. Lungs. — If the hemorrhage is from the lungs, the blood is bright-rtd, nearly the shade of red ink, and usually frothy. It is seldom profuse, y'?.t, as it is usually coughed up and received in a handkerchief, it is apt to seem so. The stain spreading over the texture of the handkerchief makes it difficult to estimate. The best treatment is perfect rest in bed, with the body supported by pillows in a sitting posture, and the swallowing of lumps of ice. If the patient is not too weak to bear it, put cold appli- cations on the chest, and a mixture of salt and vinegar, in doses of one teaspoonful every fifteen minutes, is often helpful. Stomach. — When the bleeding is from the stomach, the color is usually very dark, and it somewhat resembles coftee-grounds. If mingled with any other contents of the stomach, its appearance may be altered. Give ice-water or cracked ice, and teaspoonful doses of vinegar. Rest in bed is absolutely necessary, and cold applications to the stomach may be beneficial. Boioels. — Give injections of ice-water, and apply ice to the abdomen. INTERNAL HEMORRHAGES. "Where the bleeding is internal, ice-cold water should be laid on the abdomen. The patient should be placed in bed and rest there without a pillow, and with the head lower than the body. ACCIDEN"TS ON" RAILROADS AND IN FACTORIES. INJURIES from machinery range from very slight and simple wounda to the most severe ones. Many a limb or portion of a limb is cut or torn away. Accidents of this sort very frequently occur when medical aid cannot be obtained for some little time, and it would be desirable if some one on every train, and in every room of a manufactory, had some idea of the proper things to do before a doctor arrived. HOME MANUAL. 205 Every surgeon will bear witness that the most common cause of death from severe accidents is due to the shock that follows them, and therefore directions for its treatment will be given before proceeding to an account of the means to be used for the relief of the injuries themselves. SHOCK. The sj-mptoms are extreme pallor, a cold, clammy skin, very feeble pulse and breathing, pinched face, dull eyes, drooping eyelids, dilated pupils, bewilderment or dullness of the mental faculties, sometimes even stupor. A person in this condition may die very soon, and certainly will die ere long unless the vital forces can be rallied. Prompt, energetic, and steady measures must be adopted by those who are striving to relieve them ; heat must be applied at once to the whole body^ if possible ; but especially to the pit of the stomach and the region of the heart. For this purpose use a hot bath, hot fire, hot cans, hot bottles, heated blankets; in short, anything hot that can be obtained most speedily. At the same time give a teaspoonful of brandy or whisky in a tablespoonful of hot water, every ten minutes, for several hours. This condition may be caused by fright, a blow on the pit of the stomach, sudden and severe pain, or even by drinking a great deal of ice- water. It is very common after severe gun-shot wounds. TRIFLING INJURIES. Under this head may be included cuts or tears. The parts should be cleaned as gently and carefully as possible, by letting luke-warm water run freely over them. Then put any displaced skin or flesh into its proper position, and lay a clean white cloth, soaked in laudanum, or alcohol and water, on the wound. Bind on loosely with a handkerchief or anything that will serve for a bandage. LACERATIONS OR LARGE TEABS. First remove any dust, splinters, or fragments of clothing, then wash with lukewarm water. Nature's forceps, the thumb and finger, are in everybody's possession, and no one need be afraid to use them with proper care. A clean linen or muslin cloth or a sponge may also be used; but the utmost care must be taken to have these articles absolutely clean. After the cleansing is completed, the injured parts must be replaced in position and retained by bandages, sticking-plaster, or the hands of 3ome careful person. If a splint is needed, it can usually be had in a mill or on a railroad. N"o matter how clumsy it may be, it should be large enough to hold the injured part still and, in case of a limb, the joint above and the joint below the injury. 206 HOME MANUAL. Sometimes these injuries occasion little pain. If, however, the suf- fering is severe, laudanum should be given — about thirty drops to an adult. Cold or hot cloths — whichever afford most relief — should be ap- plied to the wound. CRUSHED 'FINGERS AND TOES. These should be carefully washed, modeled into the proper shape, dressed with a piece of soft white cloth soaked in hot or cold water, and laid in a small splint. When completely torn off, the stumps need amputation by a medical man. While awaiting his arrival they should be cleansed, a cool, wet dressing applied, and then left for the physician's inspection. CRUSHED HANDS AND FEET. Wrap them in something soft and warm, like cloth, or cotton, or wool. Cold should never be used except when the bleeding is profuse. Support the injured part by some kind of splint and raise it to a level with the body. The sufferer should lie down, unless some other position is necessary to move him, or is directed by the physician. These injuries rarely give much pain, but are usually followed by the symptoms of shock, for whose treatment directions have been given. When torn or cut off by wheels, the stumps should be treated as described, and the limb placed so that the injured part is higher than any other. CRUSH OF THE ARMS OR LEGS. Treat as for the hands or feet; but the prostration is usually greater, and the need of stimulating by warmth and heat more urgent. Do not remove the clothing, except to cut away and replace by warm coverings. CRUSHES OF THE CHEST AND LOWER PARTS OF THE BODY. These nearly always occasion death in a short time. All that can be done is to secure rest, apply warmth and moderate stimulation. Make the sufferer as comfortable as possible, and try to prepare him for the almost inevitable end. HEALTH HINTS. Never go to bed until the feet are thoroughly dry and warm. In passing out from any heated building into cold air, keep the mouth tightly shut ; by inhaling the air through the nose it will be warmed before reaching the lungs, and thus prevent the sudden chills which so often end in pneumonia or other serious diseases. Never sleep with the head exposed to a draught from an open window. ^oisong antr Entitrotes. HE remedies to be used in cases of poisoning of course vary widely; but two general direc- tions are universally applicable — to get rid of the poison as quickly as possible, and to remember that the value of the remedy increases in the exact ratio of the promptness with which it can be obtained. Some poisons, by irritating the lining membrane of the stomach, naturally produce vomiting, so that, by the aid of an emetic, the whole contents will be speedily ejected. Others have no tendency to cause nausea, and then the quickest methods for inducing it must be employed. Of these, the best are draughts of hot water mixed with salt or mustard, tickling the throat with a feather, thrusting the finger down it, etc. Some poisons, however, paralyze the stomach, and the only resource is the stomach-pump. But this is sometimes difficult to obtain, and always liable to do harm if used by inexperienced hands. VEGETABLE POISOJS'S. POISON OAK, IVY, AND SUMACH. Many persons are so sensitive to the influence of these plants that, even without touching them, their mere vicinity will cause symptoms much resembling those of erysipelas. The best remedy is said to be frcqticnt bathing in water, as hot as can be borne. If used immediately after exposure, it will sometimes prevent the eruption. Later it relieves the itching sensation, and gradually 207 208 HOME MANUAL. dries up the swellings. In addition, "lead water and laudanum'' is valuable as a lotion. But persons sensitive to these jDoisons should be on the watch for the plants when roaming through the fields or woods. DEADLY NIGHTSHADE. This is found growing wild almost everywhere in the Eastern States, and cases of poisoning from eating its purplish fruit are by no means uncommon, especially among children. Symptoms. — The enlargement of the pupil of the eye is always a prominent symptom; the limbs grow heavy and tremors run through the body. The mucous membrane of the nose, mouth, and throat become extremely dry, and there is sometimes a singular bluish appearance of the lips. The action of the kidneys is increased, and the drug is always to be found in the urine — indeed the chief point by which to ensure recogni- tion of the poison is that the urine of any person suffering from the effects of belladonna (deadly nightshade) will dilate the pupil of the eye of another person or animal. T)^eatmenL — Give sulphate of copper or sulphate of zinc to empty the stomach, and then adminiirter ten drops of the compound solution of iodine in a tablespoonful of water. Opiates should he given and cold ap- plications laid on the head. If the strength fails, use stimulants — brandy or other alcoholic liquors. The patient must lie down during the whole course of treatment, with the head low, so that the blood can flow toward the brain. Hot coffee is a valuable aid, both as an antidote to the poison and on account of its stimulating properties. STRAMONIUM, OR " JIM30N WEED." The symptoms are the same as those produced by the poison of nightshade, and the same treatment should be pursued. POKE BERRIES AND POKE ROOT, This very familiar plant, though the young stalks are often used in the spring as " greens," is poisonous, and the effects doubtless would be more frequently felt if the active principle were not removed by boiling. The berries, however, are sometimes eaten by children. Symptoms. — Excessive nausea, followed at last by vomiting, which ia accompanied by great depression. The pulse and breathing are very slow, and convulsions sometimes set in. T'ratment. — Empty the stomach at once by emetics and give liquor; fifteen drop doses of ether, or Hoffman's anodyne. One grain dose of HOME MANUAL. 209 opium, or half a teaspoonful of laudanum, or half an ounce of pareo;oric may be used instead. MONKSHOOD WOLFSBANE. This plant, though excessively poisonous, is cultivated in gardens for the sake of its beautiful blue flowers. When it grows wild, it has stmie- times been mistaken for horse-radish, and eaten with dangerous results. It is used in medicine under the name of "aconite," and as some j^ersons are very sensitive to its influence, cases of poisoning have occurred from taking the ordinary dose. Sijmptoms. — When a fatal dose has been swallowed, the effects usually appear in from five to thirty minutes. First there is irritation and con- striction of the heart, followed by tingling of the mouth, lips, and whole surface of the skin, like the pricking of chestnut-burrs, then great weak- ness, dimness of vision, difficult breathing, slowness of the pulse. Death is caused by the paralysis of the nerve centers. Treatmejit. — Give anything containing tannin, either a solution of the tannin itself, a decoction of oak bark, or plenty of strong black tea. Administer an emetic of mustard, or sulphate of zinc, or use a stomach pump. Then milk or sweet oil should be given, and, if there is any dan- ger of collapse, brandy, whiskey, or gin may be administered either by injection or by the mouth, and warm applications should be made to the hands, feet, spine, and stomach. It is absolutely necessary for the sufferer to lie down ; on no account must he or she rise or even sit up. HEMLOCK OR CONIUM. This plant, known in the most ancient times, is a native of Europe, whence it was brought to this country. It flowers in July and emits a strong mouse-like odor, long inhalation of which produces symptoms of poisoning. St/mptoms. — Weakness of the limbs, drooping of the eye-lids, drowsi- ness, and dizziness. The utterance is affected, and if the dose lias been fatal, paralysis of the extremities follows and convulsions set in. Trealment. — Tannin, strong tea, decoction of oak-bark, aqua ammonia, diluted with six times its bulk of water, or, if that is not at hand, a few drops of lye in plenty of water. Tickle the throat to produce vomiting, give strong coffee and compel the patient to take plenty of exercise. DIGITALIS. The common name is fox-glove, — the extract from the plant is known in medicine as digitalis — and it is classed among cumulative poisons. 210 HOME MANUAL. hence the danger in using it of sometimes finding it produce the effects of an over-dose. Symptoms. — Vomiting, pain in the bowels, and purging. The grass- green color of the matter thrown off is said to he a distinctive symptom. Sometimes these symptoms immediately follow the dose, sometimes a con- siderable interval of time elapses. The most marked symptom is the ex- treme depression of the action of the heart, the pulse becomes irregular, at times almost imperceptible, the pupils are dilated, and the vision is dimmed or fails entirely. Death usually results suddenly from stoppage of the heart, caused by some trifling exertion, such as an attempt to sit up in the bed. Treatment. — First get rid of the poison by giving emetics, warm mustard water, ipecac, etc., — tickling the throat or using the stomach- pump ; tannin or strong tea, paregoric or laudanum, wine, and large quantities of strong coffee are recommended. The patient must be kept constantly lying down, and not permitted to rise or sit up in the bed. TOBACCO. The first effects produced by the use of this plant have been experi- enced by almost every smoker. Symptoms. — Nausea, purging, weakness, trembling, and profuse per- spiration. When a fatal dose has been taken, there is also burning pain in the stomach, while the other symptoms increase. The body begins to grow cold, the trembling fits are more frequent, spasms supervene, and finally convulsions and death. Treatment. — The first thing to be done when a large dose has been swallowed is to empty the stomach by a dose of sulphate of zinc, or any other means that may be convenient, or with a stomach-pump. Then administer tannin or strong tea — which contains it — followed by iodide of potassium in ten grain doses, or five drop doses of compound solution of iodine, well diluted with water. Brandy and ten drop doses of am- monia are beneficial in stimulating the circulation. Injections of strych- nine and artificial respiration may be resorted to in extreme cases. ARNICA. This is a common household remedy, though of somewhat doubtful value. Symptoms. — On first swallowing arnica there is a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, followed by greatly increased secretion of saliva. Nausea and vomiting follow, accompanied by diarrhoea, like that which HOME MANUAL. 211 attends cholera. Extreme depression of the whole system follows the lirst increase of respiration, circulation, and temperature, and is accom- jianied by violent headache, dilated pupils, and paralysis of the muscles. STRYCHNINE STRYCHNIA. This poison acts upon the nervous system and throws the patient into convulsions. The time between swallowing the poison and feeling the etiects varies according to the form in which it has been taken. If a so- lution is used, it speedily begins its deadly action on the spinal cord ; if mixed with food, a longer time is necessary. If an emetic is to be of any service in cases of poisoning from strychnine, it must he administered immediately, as the convulsions prevent swallowing. OPIUM. This is one of the poisons most frequently taken, both from design, because it is supposed to produce an easy death, and from mistake, because it is so much used as a medicine. Symptoms. — ^Very soon after taking a large dose of opium the patient is overwhelmed by a stupor against which he vainly struggles and, unless some counteracting remedy is promptly given, death soon ensues. Treatment. — There is no known antidote to opium. The first step to be taken is to administer a prompt emetic. Ten grains of sulphate of copper or a scruple of sulphate of zinc will answer, but if these cannot be had, give three tablespoonfuls of mustard in a quart of water, or the same amount of salt instead of the mustard. Keep the patient moving about, compelling exertion by every possible means, and when there is no farther hope of removing the poison, give a cathartic. If this latter attempt to clear the stomach and bowels proves thoroughly successful — otherwise it would be a fatal mistake — give some acid drink, a glass of vinegar and water or lemonade, 161 lowed by a cup of hot, strong coffee, without sugar or cream, every half hour, gradually lessening the quan- tity and frequency of the dose. Finally, alter the effects of the drug have wholly passed away, let the patient sleep. MORPHINE This is the active principle of opium, of which it constitutes about ten jtcr cent. It bears a close resemblance to quinine, which has beer the cause of frequent mistakes. Symploras. — The same as opium, and the treatment is the same. 212 HOME MANUAL. LAUDANUM. This drug varies in strength from the plain tincture of opium to ** black drop." Symptoms and Treatment. — Same as for opium. PAREGORIC. This is camphorated tincture of opium, and is so weak that it is rarely taken in over-doses except by delicate children. Paregoric form?^- die basis of " soothing syrups." Symptoms and Treatment. — Same as for opium. MINERAL POISOi^S. PHOSPHORUS. This, one of the most fatal drugs known, is the principal ingredient in ordinary matches, and also in many of the rat and insect poisons in common use. It is slow in operation — death resulting in from two to three or four weeks after taking the poison — ^a fortnight being the most common period. Symptoms. — These develop more slowly when the poison has been absorbed from matches than when it has been taken in the form of the various vermin exterminators so commonly sold. A sensation of nausea and burning, followed by vomiting, are the first symptoms. The odor of phosphorus can be frequently perceived in the matter ejected from the stomach, and it is often luminous in the dark. The stomach is painful and tender to the touch, and these sensations, with the vomiting, usually continue several days, at which time the matter thrown off contains par- ticles not unlike coffee-grounds in appearance, constituting what is termed " black vomit." The patient may have either constipation, diarrhoea, or dysentery, and the matter cast off from the bowels may or may not be luminous in the dark. Hemorrhage from all the mucous surfaces is very common, the hands and feet become insensible, and afterwards paralyzed. Sometimes there is violent delirium, and death is usually preceded by convulsions. Treatment. — The hope of success in saving the patient after the more serious symptoms appear is extremely slight, but if the antidotes are given early enough, the chance of prevention is very fair, especially if the poison has been taken in the solid form. HOME MANUAL. 213 As soon as it is known that phosphorus has been swallowed, give at once in large quantities its antidote, sulphate of copper (blue vitriol), so that it may perform the double work of antidote and emetic. After the stomach has been thus thoroughly emptied, administer hydrated magnesia to cause purging, and then give small doses of the sulphate of copper. Acid French oil of turpentine, if obtainable, is an excellent antidote. The rectified oil, known as the spirits of turpentine, is useless. Of course, as in all cases of accident and injury, a physician should be summoned as quickly as possible. ARSENIC. This poison, taken in large doses, causes nausea and vomiting, which should be increased by giving ipecac, mustard and water, or salt and water. Symptoms. — Vomiting, purging — the discharge mixed with blood— difficulty of breathing, low, feeble pulse, intense thirst, and cold extremi- ties. If the dose is fatal, convulsions follow. Treatment. — Large doses of chalk or magnesia, mixed with water, sugar and linseed oil, or chalk and sweet oil, should be frequently repeated for the purpose of coating the lining membrane of the stomach, and thus preventing the action of the poison. Then procure as quickly as possible, hydrated sesquioxide of iron. But, as it is absolutely necessary that this should be fresh, it is better to make it. To do this obtain from the druggist several ounces of the lersulphaie of Iron ; or, if that cannot be had, the Persulphate of Iron will answer. Put it in a glass and pour over it magnesia, soda, or ammonia. The former, as it is also an anti- dote, is best for the purpose. Strain the mixture througha cloth — a handkerchief will do — and give a tablespoonful or even more of the paste which will remain in the cloth. This substance is the hydrated sesquioxide of iron, and is a specific antidote to the arsenic. If only a small dose of the poison has been swallowed, or if the treatment has been sufficiently promi)t, the violent symptoms will soon pass away, after which broth or any light food may be taken. The inflammation of the stomach and bowels which will remain requires the same treatment as inflammation from any other cause; but chronic inflam- mation or permanent paralytic results may follow. PARIS GREEN. This salt of arsenic is very commonly used to destroy bugs and insects, and many cases of poisoning have resulted. The symptoms and treatment are the same as for arsenic. 214 HOME MANUAL. Test. — A simple way of discovering whether a person has been poi- soned by arsenic is to throw some of the matter ejected on a hot iron — it the fumes give out an odor resembling garlic, the presence of arsenic may be confidently believed. COPPER. Many cases of poisoning proceed from having eaten food cooked in copper vessels which, having been left with grease or acid standing in them, collect what is known as " verdigris," acetate of copper, or blue vitriol (sulphate of copper) a very poisonous substance which, being taken into the stomach with the food, instantly causes severe illness. Another source of trouble arises from the practice of putting copper coins into ajar with vinegar pickles to improve their color. Symptoms. — Severe pains in the stomach, nausea, and vomiting, the matter ejected being tinged with green or blue and tasting of copper. Treatment. — After the stomach has been emptied by means of an emetic or stomach pump, mix the whites of half a dozen eggs in a quart of water and give the patient a wine-glassful every three or four minutes. "When the whole has b3en taken, give a dose of some cathartic and apply cloths wet in hot water to allay the inflammation. BLUE VITRIOL OR SULPHATE OF COPPER. This is used in many disinfecting fluids, and cases of poisoning by them sometimes occur. The symptoms and treatment are the same as for copper. MERCURY. This is a metal very useful in medicine, yet chronic poisoning by the drug is not uncommon when given by a physician's prescription, though, occurring under his eye, it is easily checked. Ointments in which mer- cury forms a large ingredient, such as " blue ointment " and " red oint- ment " are often used without prescription, as are also the favorite cathartic medicines, blue mass and calomel. It is also used in manufac- tures, gilding, mirror-making, etc., and as it gives oW fumes at a very low temperature, it is inhaled by persons using it and serious cases of poison- ing have followed. Symptoms. — The general symptoms are headache, loss of memory, trembling, partial loss of control over the muscles, convulsions, and finally insanity. Persons whose occupations oblige them to handle the metal should be watchful of such warnings. But before any extreme points have been reached, the symptoms of mercurial poisoning become HOME MANUAL. 215 unmistakable. The gums grow tender to the touch , the glands in the neck and throat swell, the breath is offensive, and a blue or dark slate-colored line forms between the teeth and the gums. These effects are known as salivation. Treatment. — Where the case is chronic, stop the administration of the poison. Let the patient take nourishing food and regular exercise. A dose of from five to ten grains of iodide of potassium should be given every day. CORROSIVE SUBLIMATE. This mercurial salt is an intensely active poison. Symptoms. — A feeble rapid pulse, extreme thirst, great difficulty of breathing and a bloody discharge from the stomach. It is so commonly used as a vermin and insect exterminator that accidents from its use are frequent. Treatment. — Excite vomiting as quickly as possible by giving large draughts of warm {not hot) water and sugar, and by tickling the back part of the throat. Then mix the whites of a dozen eggs in a quart of wat<3r, and let the patient drhik a wineglassful every two or three min- utes. Fortunately white of e^g is an antidote, and one which can gen- erally be quickly and easily obtained. RED PRECIPITATE. Red oxide of mercury is in very common use as a poison for insects, and is sometimes swallowed by accident. The symptoms and treatment are the same as for corrosive sublimate. LEAD. There are many ways in which the .poison may be conveyed into the system — by drinking water that has flowed through load pipes, by eating food which has been put up \\i soldered jars, or, as in the case of painters, by absorbing it through the pores of the skin. When taken in the latter form, it gradually accumulates until it results in chronic lead poisoning. known as " lead colic " and " lead palsy." Treatment. — First cut off the supply of poison, from whatever source it may come. Then give regularly aperient carbonated drinks, keep the bowels o[)en l)y mild saline cathartics, and doses of from five to ten grains of potassium iodide, dissolved in a tablespoonful of water, admin- istered three times each day till a cure is ettected. 216 HOME MANUAL. SUGAR OF LEAD. Cases of poisoning by this salt, " acetate of lead," are quite frequent, as large quantities of it are contained in nearly all eye-washes and many lotions. Symptoms. — Acute j^ains in the stomach and bovvels, with excessive nausea and vomiting;. Treatment. — Give alum, carbonate of soda, or carbonate of potash, in warm Avater in large draughts to cause vomiting, which will afford relief. If these should I'ail, give a scruple of the sulphate of zinc (known, as white vitriol), which, combining with the lead, will form a harmless salt ; and destroy the activity of the poison, which may then be removed from the system by means of emetics and cathartics. ZINC (including chloride, acetate, and sulphate of zinc). Large doses of any of these zinc salts act as irritant and feebly caustic poisons. Symptoms. — Burning and constriction in the throat, burning sensa- tions in the stomach, nausea, strong metallic taste in the mouth, vomit- ing, profuse cold perspiration, cramps, and occasionally other nervous sym}>toms. Treatment. — Like all irritant poisons, the remedies must be very promptly given. The antidotes are soap and water, baking soda in water, in the proportion of one tablespooiiful to a pint, lime water, strong tea, tannin, or a decoction of oak bark, followed by mucilaginous drinks, whites of eggs, or milk to soothe the inflammation. Stimulants may be required later. antimony TARTAR EMETIC. Tartar is a compound of antimony and potash, and was formerly often used in medical practice. Symptoms. — The name ol the drug being derived from its powerful emet- ic effects, one of the most prominent symptoms, as may be supposed, is per- sistent vomithig. This is followed by purging and, if violent, the discharges bear a close resemblance to the so called "rice-water" excreta of cholera. The face becomes pallid, the skin icy cold, the pulse is weak and irregular, and there is great nervous and muscular prostration. Larger doses cause still severer symptoms — intense pain at the pit of the stomach, a shrunken, anxious expression of the countenance, coldness of the breath, loss of the voice, and cramps make the case bear a close resemblance to Asiatic cholera. HOME MANUAL. 217 Treatment. — The stomacli will probably empty itself by the action of the drug, therefore no other emetic need be administered. Strong tea, decoction of tan bark, catechu, rhubarb, or best of all, tannin, should be administered at once. The application of heat to the hands, feet, spine, and pit of the stomach, and small doses of diluted brandy may also be advisable. NITRATE OF SILVER LUNAR CAUSTIC. It sometimes happens that in touching ulcera in the throat with lunar caustic a piece is broken off and swallowed. In case of such an ac- cident, instantly give the antidote, which is common table salt. Dissolve in warm water, and let the patient swallow enough to cause vomiting. MISCELLANEOUS. lODmE. This is so commonly used as a medicine that accidents from it are frequent. Symptoms. — The yellow stain of the preparation may often be seen about the lips or on the clothing. When swallowod it causes a sensation of burning in the stomach, and heat in the throat, and the pungent me- tallic taste is also characteristic. Treatment. — The antidote for iodine is starch, which may be admin- istered in the form of ordinary starch and water, flour and water, or mixed arrow-root — whichever is handiest. Vomiting should then be caused by warm water mixed ^^^th mustard, or by tickling the throat with a finger or a feather, if needful. Iodide of starch is deep blue, so the matter ejected will be of that color. Milk should be given afterward until there are no farther symptoms of inflammation. S>/inptoms. — These are very marked. The face grows pale, the mus- cles rigid, the heart's action quick and stift". During the paroxysms, which last some time, respiration is suspended, and the muscles are drawn into knots all over the body. Tnatraent. — Remove all tight clothing from the sufterer's body, and lay him on his back in a cool, quiet place. Then fit a pai>er cone over his face, and in the top of it put a sponge or handkerchief saturated with chloroform, BO that the air he breathes will l)e charged with it. Keep him under the iniluence until, when the chlorolorni is removed, the spas- modic symptoms do not return. If the dose has been large it will be 218 HOME MANUAL. several weeks before the patient can move about, and he will doubtless be obliged to take, for some time, a tonic composed of phosphates of iron, quinine, and strychnine. If chloroform cannot be had, use opium, mor- phine, ether, chloral, or any narcotic at hand, until the chloroform can be procured. HYDROCYANIC ACID PRUSSIC ACID CYANIDE OF POTASSIUM CYANIDE OF SILVER. The cyanides of silver and potassium owe their poisonous qualities to prussic acid, the deadliest poison with which any human being is likely to come into contact. Few people have anything to do with the acid itself; but the cyanide of silver is largely used by photographers, and the cyanide of potassium, in spite of its deadl}^ qualities, is sometimes applied to removing stains from linen ; so poisoning by prussic acid is always a possibility. The flavor of cherry-laurel water, oil of bitter almonds, peach-kernels, etc., is caused by this poison, and their use muy be dangerous — indeed, it is by no means uncommon to have children made ill by eating peach-kernels. Symptoms. — In most cases poisoning by either the acid or its salts causes instant collapse and death, so that the only thing to be done is to decide the cause by means of the odor of bitter almonds. Small doses cause excessive weakness, nausea, and great nervous depression. Treatment. — Ammonia, well diluted, followed by oxide of iron, should be administered immediately, and artificial respiration should be practiced, if necessary. Then give some hot stimulant, such as brandy and water. Perfect rest and quiet are needful. CORROSIVE ACIDS — NITRIC, MURIATIC OR HYDROCHLORIC, SULPHURIC. These acids, in the strict sen^^e of the word, are not poisons ; but in their concentrated form they destroy the tissues with which they come in contact, and are thus more fatal than many real poisons. Symptoms. — Xitricacid stains the skin and tissues yellow ; sulphuric acid turns them black. The physical sensations are intense burning pain in the mouth, throat, and stomach, accompanied by the general etfects of the corrosive poisons. Treatment. — This must be immediate. Give chalk and water, soap, magnesia, lime water, soda, (baking or washing) diluted lye or, if nothing else can be had, calsomine knocked from the wall and pounded up in water. These, by forming a chemical combination with the acid, neutralize its action. Then give milk, eggs, and oil, to protect the tissues. To counteract the depressing effects, give opium or morphia injections of HOME MANUAL. 219 beef-tea and brandy. Kay, it may even be necessary to inject ammonia directly into the veins, to save the patient from collapse. CARBOLIC ACID. This is in such general use as a disinfectant, a preventive of decom- position, and, in a weak solution, a liniment for bruises, that accidents from swallowing it are by no means infrequent. Si/mptoms.— Strong carb(.lic acid softens the tissue of the mucous membrane till it presents a greyish-white appearance. The physical sen- sations are severe pain and burning in the throat and stomach, swelling of the tongue, dizziness, and linally convulsions. Treatment. — Large quantities of olive and castor oil should be swal- lowed, with frequent and abundant drinks of sweet milk. If neither sweet oil nor castor oil are on hand, any other bland oil will answer the purpose till the doctor comes. OXALIC ACID. This preparation is familiar to housewives under the name of "salt of sorrel," "salt of lemon," and being often kept on hand for the removal of ink and other stains, is sometimes swallowed by mistake. Symptoms. — Like other corrosive acids, oxalic acid poisoning pro- duces burning of the throat and stomach, profuse vomiting, whose matter is sometimes mixed with blood, and extreme debility, whose ettects almost amount to paralysis, while the pulse becomes so weak as to be nearly imperceptible. A strong dose will destroy life in half an hour. Treatment. — Give lime, washing or baking soda, chalk, magnesia, or ammonia diluted with water, every three or four minutes. Magnesia is best, because it acts so quickly that no emetic is needed. Still, it is wiser, under any circumstances, to thoroughly einpty the stomach by means of an emetic. LYE CAUSTIC SODA CAUSTIC POTASH. DeatJis have occurred by accidental swallowing of the?o caustics, which act like hartshorn, only with much more (piickness and severity, affecting the whole mouth, throat, and stomach. Blood appears in the discharges from the stomach and bowels, followed by cold sweat and hic- cough, the immediate precursors of death. HARTSHORN AMMONIA AQUA AMMONIA — SPIRITS OF AMMONIA. This well-known tiuid, if swallowed instantly, acts on the mouth, tongue, and throat, violently swelling and intlaming the mucous lining. 220 HOME MANUAL. On reaching the stomach it quickly enters into the circulation, increasing the heart's action, and speedily causing fever. Treatment. — When a dose of ammonia has been swallowed, follow it as soon as possible with vinegar, and then give sweet-oil, flaxseed tea, mucilage, or other familiar demulcents. A cold bath may be needed to subdue the feverish symptoms. POISONINU BY DECAYED MEAT, ETC. Certain changes which occur in animal substances cause severe cases of poisoning. Sausages, meat-pies, fish, cheese, and various other foods have occasioned serious trouble. Symptoms. — I^ausea and headache. In fish poisoning dizziness and nettle rash usually appear. Vomiting is common, followed sometimes by collapse. Treatment. — Emetics, alum, or mustard and water, followed by a dose of Epsom salts, followed by Vichy water, seltzer, or anything of the sort. ■^ travelling or for use at home, it is very desirable to have at hand a few remedies valuable in accidents or sudden sickness. A small box will hold the following articles : Absorbent cotton. Sticking plaster — rubber plaster is best, because it requires neither heat nor moisture for its application. Bandages of muslin or flannel. Thread and needles. Pins. Vaseline. 1. Aromatic spirits of ammonia. 2. Tincture of Assafcetida. 3. Oil of cloves. 4. Hofi:man's Anodyne. 5. Syrup of Ipecac. 6. Laudanum. Magnesia. Mustard. Paregoric. 10. Spiced syrup of rhubarb. 11. Turpentine. To these may be added, if there is room, camphor-water, essence of ginger, lime-water, and sweet spirits of nitre. QUANTITY. The best quantity of the eleven medicines first named would be two fluid ounces— with the exception of No. 3 (the oil of cloves) a fluid drachm of which would suflice, No. 7 (magnesia) and No. 8 (mustard) one ounce of which would be enough. See that the bottles containing the laudanum 221 7. 9. 222 HOME MANUAL. and paragoric are of an entirely different shape from those which hold the other medicines, and that they, and also the hottle containing the oil of cloves, are marked poison. By way of still farther precaution, each one should have tied around the neck a ribbon or string which can be felt in the dark. See that the proper dose is marked on the label of each bottle. DIRECTIONS FOR USE OF MEDICINES. 1. Ammonia. — Aromatic spirits of ammonia, not hartshorn, is ex- tremely valuable to relieve sickness at the stomach, and even vomiting in nervousness. Give an adult twenty-five drops, a child ten drops, in a wine-glassful of water. This may be given every ten minutes, almost without limit. 2. AssafcEtida. Tincture of assafoetida is a tonic to the nerves, and also very soothing to the bowels. Dose for an adult, one teaspoonful ; for a child, twenty drops, in a tablespoonful of water. It can often be used as an injection, when it could not be given by the mouth. In the latter case put for an adult a tablespoonful, and for a child, a teaspoonful in a small tea-cupful of warm water. 3. Cloves. Oil of cloves is an excellent remedy to use as a local ap- plication in toothache, and also, — given in doses of three drops for an adult, and one drop for a child — affords speedy relief for indigestion. It may be administered rubbed into a little sugar or in a teaspoonful of sweet oil. Hoffmann's Anodyne is admirable in cases of hysterics, nervous fright, or chills. The dose for an adult is one teaspoonful in a wineglassful of water. It is a medicine rarely needed by children ; but in the case of a very nervous child, half the dose for an adult can be given. Ipecac. Syrup of Ipecac is an emetic ; but must be used in abun- dant quantities. The dose for an adult is a large tablespoonful, and for a child as near a teaspoonful as possible ; there should be no hesitation in giving a sufficiently large dose. It is often of great service in cases of poisoning, convulsions, croup, whooping-cough, and asthma. Laudanum. Laudanum is the tincture of opium, and has all its properties. It is one of the most valuable drugs, though a dangerous one. But there is no fear of poisoning with any preparation of opium if care is taken not to give more than the ordinary dose, not to give oftener than once in half an hour, and to stop as soon as the pain lessens or there are any symptoms of drowsiness. Occasionally small doses will cause great alarm ; but it may be considered safe to give twent\' drops of laudanum to any adult who is suffering severe pain and to repeat the HOME MANUiL. 223 dose every half-hour till the pain is lessened or symptoms of drowsiness appear. One of the signs of the effect of opium on the system is a con- traction of the pupil of the eye. On the appearance of this symptom, the use of any preparation of opium should be stopped. One drop of laudanum given every hour will often prove successful in speedily checking diarrhoea. Yet ten or fifteen drops may be given to an adult, after each movement, if the smaller quantity is not sufficient. Pure laudanum is the best possible application to cuts and bruises. A soft cloth soaked in it can be bound on, and occasionally wetted with it, without removal. It quiets pain and promotes healing. The same treatment is very soothing in faceache, toothache, and earache, even in rheumatism and neuralgia. 7. Magnesia. Magnesia is a remedy usually given to children for the relief of constipation. The dose is one teaspoonful, which may be aiministered either in water or milk. For sour stomach a pinch is sufficient. 8. Mustard. In using ground mustard for plasters, always mix it with an equal quantity of flour. Even then its eftect is speedy, and it should be removed in a few minutes or as soon as the skin begins to redden. When it is necessary to leave a mustard plaster on for more than a few minutes, make it in the proportion of one part mustard to three or four of flour. Care should be taken to remove it as soon as the skin is red, it must not be allowed to make a blister. As an emetic, put a teaspoonful of the ground seeds into a teacupful of lukewarm water. 9. Paregoric. — An opium preparation, containing, besides other in- gredients, some camphor. It is the best preparation for children because the dose can be more easily measured than laudanum. An infant a few hours old can stand three drops, and in a few days, five. Any time after six months, twenty may be given. An adult can take a teaspoonful. It can be used in all cases for which laudanum is recommended. 10. Rhubarb. — Spiced rhubarb is an excellent laxative for the bowels. A teaspoonful is the dose for an adult or a small child. It is valuable in the early stages of diarrhoea in children, as it has a healing, soothing in- fluence. 11. Turpentine. — Spirits or oil of turpentine can be used whenever mustard has been recommended for external api)lication. Dip a soft flannel or muslin cloth in turpentine, wring out nearly dry, lay on the surface, and cover with oiled silk or a few thicknesses of dry cloth to pre- vent co-operation. 224 HOME MANUAL. Bed Pepjier may sometimes be applied instead of mustard, though its action is more energetic. When moistened and applied to the skin, red pepper first causes a sensation of warmth and later of intense fiery burn- ing. If left on long enough it will raise a blister, but this should be carefully avoided. Red pepper may be used in cases of colic or cholera morbus, as it quiets pain by acting as a counter irritant, and stimulates the nervous and circulatory systems. In nausea it sometimes relieves by the latter process. LOOKING II )K PAPA. '^r**^^ ;.;;)?';..■•• (tare anti dfooti of infants. PROMIISTENT and very successful English physician, Dr. Chavasse, sums up the result of years of practice in the following : FOUR RULES FOR THE TREATMENT OF INFANTS. 1. 2. 3. 4. Plenty of water for the skin. Plenty of milk for the stomach. Plenty of fresh air for the lungs. Plenty of sleep for the brain Without an abundance of these four requisites, he says, perfect health is utterly' impossible. In reference to the first rule, he opposes the use of cold water for Oathing, and denies its strengthening power, stating that it is likely to cause a chill and subsequent inflammation. Hot water he also disapproves, a8 having a tendency to weaken the child and make it more liable to contract diseases, and recommends as best for the purpose, tepid water used with Castile soap, which is less irritating to the skin than ordinary soaps; care being taken not to let it get into the eyes, lest it should pro- duce inflammation, or at any rate smarting. 225 226 HOME MANUAL. A sponge is better than flannel, because it enables a little stream ot water to be poured over the child, thus acting like a miniature shower bath. In giving general directions for the infant's bath, he says : " A babe ought, every morning of his life, to be thoroughly washed from head to foot ; and this can only be properly done by putting him bodily either into a tub, or into a bath, or into a large nursery-basin half filled with water. The head, before placing him in the bath, should be first wetted (but not dried) ; then immediately put him into the water, and, with a piece of flannel well soaked, cleanse his whole body, particu- larly his arm-pits, between his thighs, his groins, and his hams ; then take a large sponge in hand, and allow the water from it, well filled, to stream all over his body, particularly over his back and loins. Let this advice be well observed, and you will find the plan most strengthening to your child. The skin must, after every bath, be thoroughly but quickly dried with warm, dry, soft towels, first enveloping the child in one, and then gently absorbing the moisture with the towel, not roughly scrubbing and rubbing his tender skin as though a horse were being rubbed down. " The ears must after each ablution be carefully and well dried with a soft dry napkin ; inattention to this advice has sometimes caused a gathering in the ear — a painful and distressing complaint ; and at othe. times it has produced deafness. " Directly after the infant is dried , all the parts that are at all likely to be chafed ought to be well powdered. After he is well dried and powdered, the chest, the back, the bowels, and the limbs should be gently rubbed, taking care not to expose him unnecessarily during such friction. He ought to be partially washed every evening ; indeed it may be neces- sary to use a sponge and a little warm water frequently during the day, namely, each time after the bowels have been relieved. Cleanliness is one of the grand incentives to healthy and therefore cannot be too strongly in- sisted upon. If more attention were paid to this subject, children would be more exempt from chafings, " breakings-out," and consequent sufi*ering, than they at present are. After the second month, if the babe be delicate, the addition of two handfuls of table-salt to the water he is washed with in the morning will tend to brace and strengthen him. " With regard to the best powder to dust an infant vv^ith, there is noth- ing better for general use than starch — the old-fashioned starch made of wheaten-jiour — reduced by means of a pestle and mortar to a fine powder ; or violet powder, which is nothing more than finely powdered starch scented, and which may be procured of any respectable chemist. Some HOME MANFAL. 227 mothers are in the habit of using white-lead ; but as this is a poison, it ought on no account to be resorted to.^ " Remembe r that excoriations are generally owing to the want of water — to the want of an abundance of water. After sponging the parts where the excoriations appear with tepid rabi water, holding him over his tub, and allowing the water from a well-filled sponge to stream over the parts, and then drying them with a soft napkin (not rubbing, but gently dabbing with the napkin), there is nothing better than dusting the parts frequently with finely powdered native carbonate of zinc. The best way of using this powder is tying up a little of it in a piece of muslin, and then gently dabbing the parts with it. "An infant who is every morning well soused and well swilled with water, seldom suffers either from excoriations or from any other of the numerous skin diseases. Cleanliness, then, is the grand preventive of, and the best remedy for, excoriations. Naaman the Syrian was ordered ' to wash and be clean,' and he was healed, " and his fiesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean."- This Avas, of course, a miracle ; but how often does water, without any special intervention, act miraculously both in preventing and in curing skin diseases ! "An infant's clothes, napkins especially, ought never to be washed with soda; the washing of napkins with soda is apt to produce excoria- tions and breakings-out. ' As washer-women often deny that they use soda, it can be easily detected by simply soaking a clean napkin in fresh water and then tasting the water ; if it be brackish and salt, soda has been employed.' " ' In regard to feeding infants, Dr. Chavasse is most positive in his opinion that nothing can be so beneficial as natural food supplied by the mother's milk. N"ext in order he recommends a wet nurse, then asses' milk — which, however, is difficult to obtain— and finally goat's milk. Either of the latter should be milked fresh, as wanted, and should be given by means of a feeding bottle. If neither asses' nor goat's milk can be had, the following rocipe should be given from the very commencement. New milk, the produce of one healthy cow, Warm water, of each, equal parts; Table ealt,* a few grains ; Lump sugar, a sufTicient quantity to slifj^htly sweeten it. * In one case related by Koop iJourn. de Pharm., xx. fiO.S\ a cliild was destroyed by it. 2 2 Kin«8, V. 13, 14. * Coriiraiini(;iitefl Vjy Sir Charles Locot-k. * Liebip, tbo Kreat cbemiBt, asserts tbat a Hmall (iiiaiitity of table Halt to the food is essential to the luaitli of children. 228 HOME MANUAL. The milk itself ought not to be heated over the fire/ but should, as above directed, be warmed by the water ; it must, morning and evening, be had fresh and fresh. The milk and water should be of the same temperature as the mother's milk, that is to say, at about ninety to ninety-five degrees Fanrenheit. It ought to be given by means of a feeding-bottle, and care must be taken to scald the bottle out twice a day, for if attention be not paid to this point the delicate stomach of an infant is soon disordered. As he grows older the milk should be gradually increased, and the water decreased, until nearly all milk be given. " There will, in many cases, be quite sufB.cient nourishment in the above ; I have known some robust infmts brought up on it alone. But if it should not agree with the child, or if there should not be sufiicient nourishment in it, then some of the following foods may be tried. The one that has been found the most generally useful is made by boiling the crumb of bread for two hours in water, taking special care it does not burn; then add a little lump sugar or brown sugar, if the bowels are constipated, to make it more palatable, add also a little new milk, the milk of one cow increasing, as the babe grows older, until it is nearly all milk, using only sufficient water to boil the bread; the milk should be poured boiling hot upon the bread. " (2) Cut thin slices of bread into a basin, cover the bread with cold water, put it in an oven for two hours to bake; take it out, beat the bread up with a fork, sweeten slightly, and add a little milk. This is an excellent food. " (3) If neither of the above should agree with the infant, though if properly made they almost always do — tous-les-mois — may be given. This tous-les-mois is the starch obtained from the tuberous roots of various species of canna, and is imported from the West Indies. It is very similar to arrow-root and is probably called tous-les-mois because it is good to be eaten all the year round. "(4) Another good food is the following: Take about a pound of flour, put it into a cloth, tie it up tightly, place it in a saucepanful of water, and let it boil for four or five hours ; then take it out, peel off the outer rind, and the inside will be found quite dry, which grate. " (5) Another way of preparing an infant's food is to bake flour (biscuit-flour) in a slow oven, until it is of a light fawn color. " (6) An excellent food for a baby is baked crumbs of bread. Crumb some bread on a plate ; put it a little distance from the fire to dry, when ^ It now and then happens that if the milk be not boiled, the motions of an infant are offensive ; when such is the case let the milk be boiled, but not otherwise. HOME MANUAL. 229 dry, rub the crumbs into a mortar, and reduce them to fine powder ; pass them through a sieve, set them into a slow oven, and let them bake until a light fawn color. A small quantity, either of the boiled or of the baked flour, or of the baked crumbs of bread ought to be made into food in the same way as gruel is made, and should have a little milk added and be slio-htly sweetened, according to the state of the bowels — with either lump or brown sugar. " Baked flour sometimes causes constipation. In such cases a mix- ture of baked flour and prepared oatmeal in the proportion of two parts of flour to one of oatmeal, will be both nourishing and regulating to the bowels. " One tablespoonful of it, mixed with a quarter of a pint of milk, or milk and water, when well boiled, flavored, and sweetened with white sugar, produces a thick, nourishing, and delicious food for infants or invalids." " (7.) The following is also a good and nourishing food for a baby : Soak, for an hour, some best rice in cold water ; strain, and add fresh water to the rice ; then let it simmer till it will pulp through a sieve ; put the pulp and the water in a saucepan, with a lump or two of sugar, and again let it simmer for a quarter of an hour ; a portion of this should be mixed with one-third of fresh milk, so as to make it of the consistence of good cream. " (8.) If a child's bowels are relaxed and weak, the milk must be boiled. In such conditions, the following is a good food. Into five large spoon- fuls of the purest water rub smoothly one dessertspoonful of fine flour. Set over the fire five spoonfuls of new milk and put two bits of sugar into it ; the moment it boils, pour it into the flour and water, and stir it over a slow fire twenty minutes. " The above recipes give a large and thoroughly tested variety of foods from which to select, as it is sometimes difiicultto find one that will suit; but as soon as any one of them is found to agree, keep to it. ^^ baby re- quires simplicity in food. "Another point to be remembered is the necessity of great care and attention being observed in the preparation of any of the above articles of diet. A babe's stomach is very delicate and will revolt at ill-made, lumpy, or burnt food. Great care ought also to be observed as to the cleanliness of the cooking utensils. Tlie above directions reractical)le, in case of croup, whether the attack be severe or mild, to send immedi- .ately for medi<-al aid. There is no disease iti which time is more jirccious than in croup, and where the delay of an hour may decide either for life or for death. 238 HOME MANUAL. "If medical aid cannot be procured, adopt the following measures. First: Look well to the goodness and purity of the medicine, for the life of the child may depend uj>on the medicine being genuine. This medicine is ipecacuanha wbie. "At the earliest dawn of the disease give a teaspoonful of ipecacuanha wine every five minutes, until free vomiting be excited. In croup, before he is safe, free vomiting must be established, and that without loss of time. If, after the expiration of an hour, the ipecacuanha wine (having given during that hour a teaspoonful of it every five minutes) is not sufliciently powerful for the purpose — although it generally is so (if the ipecacuanha wine be good) — then let the following mixture be substituted : " Take of — Powdered Ipecacuanha, one scruple ; Wine of Ipecacuanha, one ounce and a half. Make a mixture. A teaspoonful to be given everv five minutes, until free vomiting be excited, first t«e/Z shaking the bottle. "After the vomiting, place the child for a quarter of an hour in a warm bath.^ "When out of the bath, give him small doses of ipecacuanha wine every two or three hours. The following is a palatable form for the mixture : Take of — Wine of Ipecacuanha, three drachms ; Simple Syrup, three drachms ; Water, six drachms. Make a mixture. A teaspoonful to be taken everj' two or three hours. " But remember, the emetic which is given ntjirst is pure ipecacuanha ivine, icithout a drop of either water or of syrup. '' A large sponge, dipped out of very hot water, and applied to the throat, and frequently renewed, oftentimes aftbrds great relief in croup, and ought, during the time the emetic is being administered, in all cases to be adopted. " If it be a severe case of croup, and does not in the course of two hours yield to the free exhibition of the ipecacuanha emetic, apply a narrow strip of Smith's tela vesicatoria to the throat, prepared in the same way as for a case of inflammation of the lungs. With this only differ- ence, let it be a narrower strip, only one-half the width there recom. mended, and apply it to the throat instead of to the chest. If a child has a very short, fat neck, there may not be room for the tela ; then you ought to apply it to the upper part of the chest, just under the collar- bones. ^ See " Warm baths," — directions and precautions to be observed. HOME MANUAL. 239 " Let it be understood that the tela vesieatoria is not a severe remedy ; that the tela produces very little pain — not nearly so much as the appli- cation of leeches; although, in its action, it is much more beneficial, and is not nearly so weakening to the system. "Keep the child from all stimulants ; let him live on a low diet, such as milk and water, toast and water, arrow-root, etc. ; and let the room be, if practicable, at a temperate heat — 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and be well ventilated. " Thus it is evident that the treatment of croup is very simple, and the plan might be carried out by an intelligent mother. N^evertheless, it is a duty, at the very onset of the disease, to obtain a physician, if possible. " Another point to be emphasized is that, if the child is to be saved, the Ipecacuanha Wine must be genuine and good. This can only be assured by having the medicine from a thoroughly reliable druggist. Again, if a child has ever had croup, always keep in the house a four-ounce bottle of ipecacuanha wine, which may be resorted to at a moment's notice, in case there is the slightest return of the disease. " Unfortunately, ipecacuanha wine is not a medicine that keeps well ; therefore a fresh bottle ought to be obtained every three or four months, either from a physician or a druggist. As long as the wine remains clear it is good ; but as soon as it becomes turbid it is bad, and ought to be re- placed by a fresh supply. " What not to do. — Do not give emetic tartar ; do not apply leeches ; do not keep the room very warm ; do not give stimulants ; do not omit to have always in the house a four-ounce bottle or three or four one-ounce bottles of ipecacuanha wine." CHILD-CROWING OR SPURIOUS CROUP. " This is a disease sometimes mistaken for genuine croup. But it is of more frequent occurrence than the latter, and requires a difi:erent plan of treatment. The ailment very rarely occurs except during teething, and is most dangerous. But if a child who is subject to it can escape suffoca- tion until he has cut the whole of his first sot of teeth — twenty — he is then as a rule safe. "Child-crowing comes on in paroxysms. The breathing in the inter- vals is quite natural — -indeed, the child seems perfectly well. Tlius the dangerous nature of the disease is overlooked till an unusually severe paroxysm recurs, and the little patient dies of sulibcation. " The symptoms in a paroxysm of child-crowing are as follow ,s : The child suddenly loses and fights for his breath, and in doing so makes a 240 HOxME MANUAL. noise very much like that of crowing ; hence the name child-crowing. The face during the paroxysm becom_es bluish or livid. In a favorable case, after either a few seconds, or even, in some instances, a minute, and a frightful struggle to breathe, he regains his strength, and is, until an- other paroxysm occurs, perfectly well. In an unfavorable case, the upper part (chink) of the windpipe remains for a minute or two closed, and the child, not being able to breathe, drops a corpse in his nurse's arms. Many children, who are said to have died of fits, have really died of child- crowing. "The description has been intentionally made full, because many lives might be saved if a mother knew the nature of the complaint, and the great need during the paroxysms ofjyrompt and proper measures. Too often, before a physician has had time to arrive, the child has breathed his last, the mother being perfectly ignorant of the necessary treatment." "Hence, it is vitally important to give clear information in a work of this kind. Treatment of Child-Crowing. — " The first thing, of course, to be done is to send immediately for a medical man. Have a plentiful supply of cold and of hot water always at hand, ready at a moment's notice for use. The instant the paroxysm is upon the child, plentifully and per- severingly dash cold water upon his head and face. Put his feet and legs in hot salt, mustard, and water; and, if necessary, place him up to his neck in a hot bath, still dashing water upon his face and head. If he does not come round, sharply smack his back and buttocks. " As soon as a physician arrives, he will lose no time in thoroughly lancing the gums and in applying other appropriate remedies. " Great care and attention ought, during the intervals, to be paid to the diet. If the child is breathing a smoky, close atmosphere, he should be immediately removed to a pure one. In this disease, indeed, there is no remedy equal to a change of air — to a dry, bracing neighborhood. Change of air, even if it be winter, either to the coast or to a healthy farm-house, is the best remedy. Where, in a case of this kind, it is not practicable to send a child from home, then let him be sent out of doors the greater part of the day ; let him, in point of fact, almost live in the open air. I am quite sure, from an extensive experience, that in thia disease, fresh air, and plenty of it, is the best and principal remedy." INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. " If the child has had a shivering fit, if his skin be very hot and very dry; if his lips be parched; if there be great thirst; if his cheeks be HOME MAN[JAL. 241 flushed ; if he be dull and heavy, wishing to be quiet in his crib or cot; if his appetite be diminished ; if his tongue be furred; if his mouth be burning hot and dry ; if his urine be scanty and high-colored, staining the napkin or the linen ; if his breathing be short, panting, hurried, and oppressed ; if there be a hard, dry cough, and if his skin be burning hot, then there is no doubt that inflammation of the lungs has taken place. " No time should be lost in sending for medical aid ; indeed, the hot, dry mouth and skin, and short, hurried breathing, would be sufficient cause for your procuring immediate assistance. If inflammation of the lungs were properly treated at the onset, a child would scarcely ever be lost by that disease. " Treatment of Inflammation of the Lungs. — Keep the child to one room, to his bed-room, and to his bed. Let the chamber be properly ventilated. If the weather be cool, let a small fire be in the grate ; otherwise, he is better without a fire. Let him live on a low diet, such as weak black tea, milk and water, and toast and water, thin oatmeal gruel, arrow-root, and such simple beverages, and give him the following mixture : " Take of — Wine of Ipecacuanha, three drachms ; Simple Syrup, three drachms ; Water, six drachms : Make a mixture. A teaspoonful of the mixture is to be taken every four hours. " Be careful that you go to a respectable chemist, in order that the quality of the ipecacuanha wine may he good, as the child's life may depend upon it. " If the medicine produces sickness, so much the better ; continue it repilarly until the short, oppressed, and hurried breathing has subsided, and has become natural. " If the attack be very severe, in addition to the above medicine, at once api>ly a blister, not the common blister, but SiniOi's tela vcsicatoria — a quarter of a sheet, which ought to be fastened on to a piece of stick- ing-plaster, taking care to apply the tela vesicatoria (which is on paper) to the warmed plaster, so as to securely fasten the tela vesicatoria on the sticking-plaster. The plaster should be rather larger than the blister, so as to leave a margin. Any respectable chemist will understand the above directions, and will prepare the tela ready for use. If the child be a year old, the blister ought to be kept on for three hours, juid then a ]iieco of thin, dry, soft linen rng should be ajjplied for another three hours. At the end of which time — six hours — there will be a ])cautil'ul blister, 242 HOME MANUAL. which must then, with a pair of scissors, be cut, to let out the water; and then the blister is to be dressed, night and morning, with simple cerate on lint. '' If the little patient be more than a year, say two years old, let the tela remain on for five hours, and the dry linen rag for five hours longer, before the blister, as above recommended, be cut and dressed. " If in a day or two the inflammation still continues violent, let another tela vesicatoria be applied, not over the old blister, but let a narrow strip of it, on sticking-plaster, be applied on each side of the old blister, and managed in the same manner as before directed." " It would be difiicult to speak too highly of Smith's tela vesicatoria. It has saved the lives of scores of children, and is very far superior to the old-fashioned blistering plaster. If the above rules are observed, it seldom fails to rise ; it gives much less pain than the common blister, and when the effect desired has been produced, it readily heals, which cannot be said of the common fly -blister, more especially with children. " The sheet anchors then, in cases of the inflammation of the lungs of children, are ipecacuanha wine and Smith's tela vesicatoria. But, as has already been stated, the utmost care must be observed in having the ipecacuanha wine genuine and good. This can only be done by getting the medicine from a thoroughly reliable chemist. " Ipecacuanha wine, when genuine and good, is, in many children's diseases, one of the most valuable of medicines. What must not he done. — "Do not, on any account," Dr. Chavasse urges, apply leeches. They draw out the life of the child, but not the disease, avoid — let this be carefull}^ heeded — giving emetic tartar. It is one of the most lowering and death-dealing medicines that can be given to either an infant or a child. Whoever tries a dose will never be inclined to poison a baby with such a preparation. Many years ago, I myself gave it in inflammation of the lungs and lost many children. Since leav- ing it oft', the recoveries of patients by the ipecacuanha treatment, com- bined with the external application of Smith's tela vesicatoria, have been in many cases marvelous. " Avoid broths and wine, and all stimulants. Do not put the child into a warm bath, it only oppresses the already oppressed breathing. Moreover, after he is out of the bath, it causes a larger quantity of blood to rush to the head and back to the lungs and to the bronchial tubes, and thus feeds the inflammation. Do not, by a large fire, keep the tempera- tui-e of the room high. A small fire, in the winter time, encourages ventilation, and in such a case does good. When the little patient is on HOME MANUAL. 2l3 the mother's or on the nurse's lap, do not burden him with a heavy blanket or with a thick shawl. Either a child's thin blanket, or a thin woolen shawl, in addition to his usual niorht-srown, is all the clothiui; necessary." DIPHTHERIA. " This dreaded disease, which by many is supposed to be of modem origin, was known in very ancient times. Homer, and Hippocrates, the father of physic, have both described it. Diphtheria first appeared in England in the beginning of the year 1857, since which time it has never left its shores. " The symptoms are as follows: The little patient, before the disease really shows itself, feels poorly, and is " out of sorts." A shivering fit, though not severe, may generally be noticed. There is heaviness and slight head ache, principally over the eyes. Sometimes, but not always, there is a mild attack of delirium at night. The next day he complains of slight difiiculty of swallowing. H old enough, he will complain of constriction about the swallow. On examining the throat, the tonsils will be found to be swollen and redder^more darkly red than usual. Slight specks will be noticed on the tonsils. In a day or two an exudation will cover them, the back of the swallow, the palate, the tongue, and some- times the inside of the cheeks and the nostrils. This exudation of lymph gradually increases until it becomes a regular membrane, which puts on the appearance of leather ; hence its name diphtheria. This membrane peels off in pieces ; and if' the child be old and strong enough he will sometimes spit it up in quantities, the membran3 ae:ain and again rapidly forming as before. The discharges from the throat are occasionally, but not always offensive. There is danger of croup from the extension of the membrane into the windpipe. The glands about the neck and under the jaw are generally much swollen ; the skin is rather cold and clammy ; the urine is scanty and usually pale; the bowels at first are frequently relaxed. This diarrhoea may or may not cease as the disease advances. " The child is now in a perilous condition, and it becomes a buttle between his constitution and the disease. If, unfortunately, as is too often the case — diphtheria being more likely to attack the weakly — the child be very delicate, there is but slight hoi)e of recovery. The danger of the disease is not alwa^'s to be measured by the state of the throat. Some- times, when the patient appears to be getting well, a sudden change for the worse rapidly carries him off. Hence the imi)ortancc of great caution, in such cases, in giving an opinion as to ultimate recovery. 244 HOME MANUAL. " Enougrh has been said to show the terrible nature of the disease, and the duty ot summoning (at the earliest possible moment) an experienced physician. " There is no doubt of the contagious character of the sickness. There- fore, when practicable, the rest of the children ought instantly to be removed from the room to a distance. I say children, for it is emphati- cally a disease of childhood. When adults have it, it is the exception, and not the rule. '•'■Treatment to Pursue. — Examine well into the ventilation, for as diphtheria is frequently caused by deficient ventilation, the best remedy is thorough ventilation. Look well both to the drains and to the privies, and see that the drains from the water-closets and from the privies do not in any way contaminate the pump-water. If the drains be defective or the privies be full, the disease in your child will be generated, fed, and fostered. Not only so, but the disease will spread in your family and all around you. •' Keep the child to his bed-room and to his bed. For the first two or three days, while the fever runs high, put him on a low diet, such as milk, tea, arrow-root, etc. " Apply to his throat every four hours a warm barm and oatmeal poultice. If he be old enough to have the knowledge to use a gargle, the following will be found serviceable : " Take of — Powdered jvlum, one drachm; Simple syrup, one ounce ; Water, seven ounces : To make a gargle. " The best medicine for the first few days of the attack is one of the following mixtures : " Take of — Chlorate of potash, two drachms; Boiling water, seven ounces and a half; Syrup of red poppy, half an ounce: To make a mixture. A tablespoonful to be taken every four hours. Or, Take of — Diluted sulphuric acid, one drachm; Simple syrup, one ounce and a half; Infusion of roses,^ four ounces and a half; To make a mixture. A tablespoonful to be given every four hours. 1 Let the infusion of roses be made merely with the rose leaves and boiling water. HOME MANUAL. 24& As soon as the skin has lost its preternatural heat, Deef tea and chicken broth ought to be given. Or, if great prostration should super- vene, in addition to the beef tea, port wine, a tablespoonful every four hours, should be administered. If the child be cold, and there be great sinking of the vital powers, brandy and water should be substituted for the port wine. Remember, in ordinary cases, port wine and brandy are not necessary, '6i<^ in cases of extreme exhaustion they are most valuable. As soon as the great heat of the skin has abated and the debility has set in, one of the following mixtures will be found useful : Take of — Wine of iron, one ounce and a half; Simple syrup, one ounce; Water, three ounces and a half: To make a mixture. A tablespoonful to be taken every four hours. Or, Take of — Muriated tincture of iron, half a drachm; Simple syrup, one ounce ; Water, three ounces : To make a mixture. A tablespoonful to be taken three times a day. " If the disease should travel downward, it will cause all the symp toms of croup, then it must be treated as croup ; with this only difference^ that a blister {tela vesicatoria) must not be applied, or the blistered surface may be attacked by the membrane of diphtheria, which may either cause death or hasten that catastrophe. In every other respect treat the case as croup, by giving an emetic, a teaspoonful of ipecacuanha wine every five minutes, until free vomiting be excited, and then administer smaller doses of ipecacuanha wine every two or three hours, as I recommended for the treatment of croup. " What not to do. — Do not, on any account, apply either leeches or a blister. If the latter be applied, it is almost sure to be covered with the membrane of diphtheria, similar to that inside of the mouth and of the throat, which would be a serious complication. Do not give cither calo- mel or emetic tartar. Do not depress the system by aperients, for diph- theria is an awfully depressing complaint of itself; the patient, in point of fact, is laboring under the depressing effects of poison, for the blood has been poisoned either by the driidud- dings, in addition to the milk, bread and butter, etc., should be given ; and, a few days later, chicken, mutton-choj>s, etc. " Tile child ought not, even in a mild case of measles, and in favorable weather, to be allowed to leave the house under a fortnight, or it might bring on an attack of bronchitis. ' PrewTiplion given in directians for tre;itm:iKO 235. ^ Prettcription given in directions for Ireulment of iuUununaiion of the lungs, page 232. 252 HOME MANUAL. " What not to do. — Do not give either 'surfeit water' or wine. Do not apply leeches to the chest. Do not expose the child to the cold air. Do not keep the bed-room very hot, but comfortably warm. Do not let the child leave the house, even under favorable circumstances, under a fortnight. Do not, while the eruption is out, give aperients. Do not, ' to ease the cough,' administer either emetic tartar, or paregoric — the former drug is awfully depressing ; the latter will stop the cough, and will thus prev^ent the expulsion of the phlegm." SCARLET FEVER. Symptoms. — The patient is generally chilly, languid, drowsy, feverish, and poorly for two days before the eruption appears. At the end of the second day, the characteristic bright scarlet fever efflorescence, some- what similar to the color of a boiled lobster, usually first shows itself The scarlet appearance is not confined to the skin ; but the tongue, the throat, and the whites of the eyes put on the same appearance ; v/ith this only diflerenee, that on the tongue and on the throat the scarlet is much darker; and, as Dr. Elliotson accurately describes it, — "the tongue looks as if it had been slightly sprinkled with Cayenne pepper." The eruption usually declines on the fifth, and is generally indistinct on the sixth day ; on the seventh it has completely faded away. There is usually, after the first few daj's, great itching on the surface of the body. The skin, at the end of the Wv ek, begins to peel and to dust off", making it look as though meal had been sprinkled upon it. The question: what is the difference between scarlatina and scarlet fever? is often asked. They are, in fact, one and the same disease, scarlatina being the Latin for scarlet fever. But in a popular sense, when the disease is mild, it is usually called scarlatina. The latter term does not sound so formidable to the ears of patients or of parents. There are three forms of scarlet fever, — the one where the throat is little, if at all affected, and this is a mild form of the disease ; the second, which is generally, especially at night, attended with delirium, where the throat is much affected, being often greatly inflamed and ulcerated ; and the third (which is, except in certain unhealthy districts, compara- tively rare, and which is very dangerous), the malignant form. "Aperient medicines," says Dr. Chavasse, from whose valuable work this description of scarlet fever and its treatment — in which he has been marvellously successful — is taken, " should never be given. They are in my opinion highly impx'oper and dangerous, both before and during the period of eruption. It is my firm conviction that the administration of HOME MANUAL. 253 opening medicine, at such times, is one of the principal causes of scarlet fever being so frequently fatal. This, is, of course, more applicable to the poor, and to those who are unable to procure a skilful medical man. " The principal dangers in scarlet fever are : The affection of the throat, the administration of the opening medicine during the first ten days, and a peculiar disease of the kidneys ending in anasarca (dropsy), on which account, the physician ought, when practicable, to be sent for at the onset, that no time may be lost in applying proper remedies." HOW TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN SCARLET FEVER AND MEASLES. It is of the utmost importance to distinguish between the above men- tioned diseases, the treatment required being radically different. In measles the patient ought to be kept moderately warm, and the drinks should be given with the chill off; while in scarlet fever the patient ought to be kept cool — indeed for the first few days, cold ; and the drinks, such as spring water, toast water, etc., should be administered quite cold. The following are the points to be noted : Measles commences with symptoms of a common cold ; scarlet fever does not. Measles has a peculiar hoarse cough ; scarlet fever has not. The eruption of measles is in patches of a half-moon shape, and is slightly raised above the skin ; the eruption of scarlet fever is not raised above the skin at all, and is one continued mass. The color of the eruption is much more vivid in scarlet fever than in measles. The chest is the part principally affected in measles, and the throat in scarlet fever. "There is an excellent method of determining, for a certainty, whether the eruption be that of scarlatina or otherwise. I myself, have, in several instances, ascertained the truth of it: 'For several years M. Bouchut has remarked in the eruption of scarlatina a curious phenomenon, which serves to distinguish this eruption from that of measles, erythema, erysipelas, etc., a phenomenon essentially vital, and which is connected with the excessive contractability of the capillaries. The phenomenon in question is a ichite line, which can be produced at pleasure by drawing the back of the nail along the skin where the eruption ia situated. On drawing the nail, or tlie extremity of a hard body (such as a pen-holder), along the eruption, the skin is observed to grow pale, and to present a white trace, which remains for one or two minutes, or longer, and then disappears. In this way the diagnosis of the disease may be very dis- tinctly written on the skin; the word ''Scarlatina" disappears as the eru})tion regains its uniform tint.'" 254 HOME MANUAL. "If," says Dr. Chavasse, " the following rules are carried out, and ray directions obeyed to the letter, I can promise that if the scarlet fever be neither malignant, vor complicated loith diphtheria, the plan I am about to advise will, with God's blessing, usually be successful." "Send the child to bed, throw open the windows, be it winter or summer, and have a thorough ventilation ; for the bed-room must be kept cool, I may say cold. Do not be afraid of fresh air, for the first icw days, it is essential to recovery. Fresh air, and plenty of if, in scarlet fever, is the best doctor a child can have, let these words be written legibly on your mind. "Now for the throat — The best e2:ter/7a^ application is a barm and oat- meal poultice. How ought it to be made, and how applied ? Put half a teacu]»ful of barm into a saucepan, put it on the fire to boil ; as soon as it boils take it olF the fire, and stir oatmeal into it, until it is of the consis- tence of a nice soft poultice ; then place it on a rag, and apply it to the throat ; carefully fasten it on with a bandage, two or three turns of the bandage going round the throat, and two or three over the crown of the head, so as nicely to apply the poultice where it is wanted — that is to say, to cover the tonsils. Tack the bandage: do not pin it. Let the poultice be changed three times a day. The best medicine is the acidulated infu- sion of roses, sweetened with syrup.^ It is grateful and refreshing, it is pleasant to take, it abates fever and thirst, it cleans the throat and tongue of mucus, and is peculiarly efficacious in scarlet fever; as soon as the fever is abated it gives an appetite. My belief is that the sulphuric acid in the mixture is a specific in scarlet fever, as much as quinine is in ague, and sulphur in itch. I have reason to say so, for, in numerous cases, I have seen its immense value. " Now, with regard to food — if the child be at the breast, keep him entirely to it. If he be weaned and under two years old, give him milk and water, and cold water to drink. If he be older, give him toast and water, and plain water from the pump, as much as he chooses ; let it be quite cold — the colder the better. Weak black tea, or thin gruel, may be given, but not caring, unless he be an infant at the breast, if he take nothing but cold water. If the child be two years old and upwards, roasted apples with sugar, and grapes will be very refreshing, and will tend to cleanse both the mouth and throat. Avoid broths and stimulants of every kind. " When the appetite returns, you may consider the patient to be safe. The diet ought now to be gradually improved. Bread and butter, milk ^ For the prescription of the acidulated infusion of roses with syrup, see page 235. HOME MANUAL. 255 and water, and arrow-root made with equal parts of new milk and water, should for the first two or three days be given. Then a light batter or rice pudding may be added, and in a few days afterward, either a little chicken or a mutton-chop. " The essential remedies, then, in scarlet fever, are, for the first few days— (1) plenty of fresh air and ventilation, (2) plenty of cold water to drink, (3) barm poultices to the throat, and (4) the acidulated infusion of roses' mixture as a medicine. "iSTow, then, comes very important advice. After the first few days, probably five or six, sometimes as early as the fourth day, ivatch carefaUy and warily^ and note the time, the skin will suddenly become cool, the child will say that he feels chilly ; then is the time you must now change your tactics — instantly close the windows, and pid extra clothing, a blanket or two, on his bed. A flannel night-gown should, until the dead skin has peeled off", be now worn next to the skin, when the flannel night-gown should be discontinued. The patient ought ever after to wear, in the day-time, a flannel waistcoat. His drinks must now be given with the chill oflT; he ought to have a cup of warm tea, and gradually his diet should, as I have previously recommended, be improved. " There is one important caution I wish to impress upon you, — do not give opening medicine daring the time the eruption is out. In all probability the bowels will be opened : if so, all well and good ; but do not, on any account, for the first ten days, use artificial means to open them. It is my firm convic- tion that the administration of purgatives in scarlet fever is a fruitful source of dropsy, of disease, and death. When we take into consideration the sympathy there is between the skjn and the mucous membrane, I think that we should pause before giving irritating medicines, such as purgatives. The irritation of aperients on the mucous membrane may cause the poison of the skin disease (for scarlet fever is a blood poison) to be driven internally to the kidneys, to the throat, to the pericardium (bag of the heart), or to the brain. You may say, ' Do you not purge, if the bowels be not open for a week ? ' I say emphatically, ' No ! ' " I consider my great success in the treatment of scarlet fever to be partly owing to my avoidance of aperients during the first ten days of the child's illness. " If the bowels* after the ten days, are not properly opened, a dose or two of the following mixture should be given : Take of— Simple syrup, three drachms ; Essence of scnnn, nine drachms. To make a mixture. Two teas])oonruls to be given early in the morning 256 HOME MANUAL. occasionally, and to be repeated in four hours, if the first dose should not operate. " Let us now sum up the plan I adopt : " 1. Thorough ventilation, a cool room, and scant clothes on the bed for the first five or six days. " 2. A change for temperature of the skin to be carefully regarded. As soon as the skin is cool, closing the windows, and putting additional clothing on the bed. " 3. The acidulated infusion of roses' syrup is the medicine for scarlet fever. " 4. Purgatives to be religiously avoided for the first ten days at least, and even afterward, unless there be absolute necessity. " 5. Leeches, blisters, emetics, cold and tepid spongings, and painting the tonsils with caustic, inadmissible in scarlet fever. "A strict antiphlogistic (low) diet for the first few days, during which time cold water to be given ad libitum. " The patient not to leave the house m the summer under the month ; in the winter, under six weeks. " What not to do. — Do not, then, apply either leeches or blisters to the throat ; do not paint the tonsils with caustic ; do not give aperients; do not, for the first few days of the illness, be afraid of cold air to the skin, and of cold water as a beverage ; do not, emphatically let me say, do not let the child leave the house for at least a month from the com- mencement of the illness. " My firm conviction is, that purgatives, emetics, and blisters, by de- pressing the patient, sometimes causes ordinary scarlet fever to degenerate into malignant scarlet fever. " He must not be allowed to go out for at least a month from the com- mencement of the attack, in the summer, and six weeks in the winter; and not even then without the express permission of a physician. It might be said that this is an unreasonable recommendation, but when it is con- sidered that the whole of the skin generally desquamates, or peels ofi", ani consequently leaves the surface of the body exposed to cold, which cold flies to the kidneys, producing a peculiar and serious disease in them, ending in dropsy, this warning will not be deemed unreasonable. " Scarlet fever dropsy, which is really a formidable disease, generally arises from the carelessness, the ignorance, and the thoughtlessness of parents in allowing a child to leave the house before the new skin is properly formed and hardened. Prevention is always better than cure. HOME MANUAK 257 " During the last seventeen years I have never had dropsy scarlet fever, and I attribute it entirely to tlie plan of treatment recommended, and in not allowing my patients to leave the house under the month, — until, in fact the skin that has peeled off has been renewed. " Thus far with the regard to the danger to the child himself. Now, if you please, let me show you the risk of contagion that you inflict upon families, in allowing your child to mix with others before a month at least has elapsed. Bear in mind, a case is quite as contagious, if not more 80, while the skin is peeling off, as it was before. Thus, in ten days or a fortnight, there is as much risk of contagion as at the beginning of the disease, and when the fever is at its height. At the conclusion of the month, the old skin has generally all peeled off, and the new skin has taken its place ; consequently there will then be less fear of contagion to others. But the contagion of scarlet fever is so subtle and so uncertain in its duration, that it is impossible to fix the exact time when it ceases. " Let me most earnestly implore you to ponder well on the above im- portant facts. If these remarks should be the means of saving only one child from death or from broken health, my labor will not have been in vain." MODE OF PURIFYING A HOUSE FROM THE CONTAGION OF SCARLET FEVER. Let every room be lime-washed and then white-washed ; if the con- tagion has been virulent, let every bed-room be freshly papered (the walls having been previously stripped of the old paper and then lime- washed) ; let the bed, the bolsters, the pillows, and the mattresses be cleansed and purified; let the blankets and coverlids be thoroughly washed, and then let them be exposed to the open air — if taken into a field, so much the better ; let the rooms be well scoured ; let the windows, top and bottom, be thrown wide open ; let the drains be carefully examined ; let the pump water be scrutinized to see that it be not con- taminated by fecal matter, either from the water-closet or from the privy : let privies be emptied of their contents — remember this is most importanl advice — then put into the empty places lime and powdered charcoal, for it is a well-ascertained fact that it is frequently impossible to rid a house of the infection of scarlet fever without adopting such a course. Let the children who have not had, or who do not appear to be sickening from scarlet fever, be sent away from home — if to a farm-house so much the better. Indeed, leave no stojic unturned, no means untried, to exterminate the disease from the house and from the neighborhood. 258 HOME MANUAL. WHOOPING COUGH. " This disease is not inflammatory, but purely spasmodic. It is, how- ever, usually accompanied with more or less bronchitis — inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bronchial tubes — for which reason it is neces- sary in all cases to consult a physician, that he may watch the progress of the disease and nip inflammation in the bud. " Whooping-cough is emphatically a disease of the young; it is rare for adults to have it ; if they do, they usually suffer more severely than chil- dren. A child seldom has it but once in life. It is highly contagious, and therefore frequently runs through a whole family of children, giving much annoyance, anxiety, and trouble to the mother and the nurses ; hence whooping-cough is much dreaded by them. It is amenable to treatment. Spring and summer are the best seasons of the year for the disease to occur. This complaint usually lasts from six to twelve weeks — sometimes for a much longer period, more especially if proper means are not employed to relieve it. "Whooping-cough commences as a common cold and cough. The cough, for ten days or a fortnight, increases in intensity ; at about which time it puts on the characteristic " whoop." The attack of cough comes on in paroxysms. " In a paroxysm the child coughs so long and so violently, and expires so much air from the lungs without inspiring any, that at times he appears suffocated and exhausted ; the veins of the neck swell ; his face is nearly purple; his eyes, with the tremendous exertion, seem almost to start from their sockets ; at length there is a sudden inspiration of air through the contracted chink of the upper part of the wind-pipe — the glottis — causing the peculiar " whoop ; " and, after a little more coughing, he brings up some glairy mucous from the chest ; and sometimes, by vomiting, food from the stomach; he is at once relieved, until the next paroxysm occurs, when the same process is repeated, the child during the intervals, in a favorable case, appearing quite well, and after the cough is over, instantly returning either to his play or to his food. Generally, after a paroxysm he is hungry, unless, indeed, there be severe inflammation either of the chest or of the lungs. Sickness, as I before remarked, frequently accompanies whooping-cough; when it does, it might be looked upon as a good symp- tom. The child usually knows when an attack is coming on ; he dreads it, and therefore tries to prevent it ; he sometimes partially succeeds ; but if he does, it only makes the attack, when it does com.e, more severe. All causes of irritation and excitement ought, as much as possible, to be avoided, as passion is apt to bring on a severe paroxysm. HOME MANUAL. 259 "A new-born babe, an infant of one or two months old, commonly escapes the infection ; but if at that tender age he unfortunately catch whooping-cough, it is likely to fare harder with him than if he were older — the younger the child the greater the risk. But still, in such a case, do not despair, as I have known numerous cases of new-born infants, with judicious care, recover perfectly from the attack, and thrive after it as though nothing of the kind had ever happened. "A new-born babe laboring under whooping-cough is liable to con- vulsions, which is, in this disease, one, indeed the greatest source, of danger. A child, too, who is teething and laboring under the disease is also liable to convulsions. When the patient is convalescing, care ought to be taken that he does not catch cold, or the " whoop " might return. "Whooping-cough may either precede, attend, or follow an attack of measles. " What to do. — In the first stage, the commencement of whooping- cough : For the first ten days give the ipecacuanha wine mixture. A teaspoonfui three times a day. If the child be not weaned, use a milk and farinaceous diet. Confine him for the first ten days to the house, more especially if the whooping-cough be attended, as it usually is, with more or less of bronchitis. But take care that the rooms be well venti- lated, for good air is essential to the cure. If the bronchitis attending the whooping-cough be severe, confine him to his bed, and treat him aa though it were simply a case of bronchitis. Take of — Diluted nitric acid, two drachms ; Compound tincture of cardamon, half a drachm ; Simple Syrup, three ounces ; Water, two ounces and a half. Make a mixture. — One or two teaspoonfuls, or a tablespoonful, according to the age of the child — one teaspoonfui for an infant of six months, and two teaspoonfuls for a child of twelve months, and one tablespoonful for a child of two years, every four hours, first shaking the bottle. " Let the chest and the spine be well rubbed every night and morning aither with Roche's Embrocation, or with the following stimulating liniment (first shaking the bottle): Take of — Oil of cloves, one drachm; Oil of amber, two drachms ; Camphorated oil, nine drachms: Make a liniment. "Let him wear a broad band of new flannel, which should extend round from his chest to his back, and which ought to bo changed every 260 HOME MANUAL. night and morning, in order that it may be dried before putting on again. To keep it in its place, it should be fastened by means of tapes and with shoulder straps. " The diet ought now to be improved — he should gradually return to his usual food ; and, weather permitting, should almost live in the open air — fresh air being, in such a case, one of the finest medicines. " In the third stage, that is to say, when the complaint has lasted a month, if by that time the child is not well, there is nothing like a change of air to a high, dry, healthy country place. Continue the nitric acid mixture, and either the embrocation or the liniment to the back and chest, let him continue to almost live in the open air, and be sure he does not discontinue wearing the flannel until he be quite cured, and then it be left off by degrees. "If the whooping-cough has caused debility, give him cod-liver oil, a teaspoonful twice or three times a day, giving it to him on a full stomach after meals. " But, remember, after the first three or four weeks, change of air and plenty of it, is for whooping cough the grand remedy. "Do not apply leeches to the chest — it is not wise to take blood out of a child laboring under whooping-cough ; the disease is quite weakening enough to the system of itself without robbing him of his life's blood ; do not, on any account whatever, administer either emetic tartar or anti- monial wine ; do not give either paregoric or syrup of white poppies ; do not drug him either with calomel or with gray powder ; do not dose him with quack medicine ; do not give him stimulants, but rather give him plenty of nourishment, such as milk and farinaceous food, but no stimulants ; do not be afraid after the first week or two, of his having fresh air, and plenty of it — for fresh pure air is the grand remedy, after all that can be said and done, in whooping-cough. Although occasionally we find that if the child be laboring under whooping-cough and is breathing a pure country air, and is not getting well so rapidly as we could wish, change of air to a smoky, gas-laden to^vn will sometimes quickly effect a cure ; indeed, some persons go so far as to say that the best remedy for an obstinate case of whooping-cough is for the child to live the greater part of every day in gas-works. " During a -paroxysvl of Whooping Cough. — If the child be old enough, let him stand up ; but if he be either too young or too feeble, raise his head, and bend his body a little forward ; then support his back with one hand, and the forehead with the other. Let the mucus, the moment it is within reach, be wiped away with a soft handkerchief out of his mouth. HOME MANUAL. 261 "In an obstinate case of whooping-cough, the best remedy, provided there be no active inflammation, is change of air to any healthy spot. A farm-house in a high, dry, and sahibrious neighborhood, is as good a place as can be chosen. If, in a short time, he bo not quite well, take him to the sea-side ; the sea breezes will otten, as if by magic, drive away the disease." BRONCHITIS. To enable the inexperienced to distinguish between an attack of bron- chitis and one of inflammation of the lungs, the following description of the difiering symptoms of the two diseases is given: " In bronchitis the skin is warm but moist ; in inflammation of the lungs it is hot and dry ; in bronchitis the mouth is warmer than usual but moist; in inflammation of the lungs it is burning hot; in bronchitis the breathing is rather hurried, and attended with wheezing ; in inflam- mation of the lungs it is very short and panting, and is unaccompanied with wheezing, although occasionally a very slight crackling sound may be heard ; in bronchitis the cough is long and noisy ; in inflammation of the lungs it is short and feeble ; in bronchitis the child is cross and fret- ful ; in inflammation of the lungs he is dull and heavy, and his counte- nance denotes distress. We have sometimes a combination of bronchitis and of inflammation of the lungs, an attack of the latter following the former. Then the symptoms will be modified, and will partake of the character of the two diseases. " TVeatment to Pursue. — Confine the child to his bed-room and, if very ill, to his bed. If it be winter time, have a little fire in the grate, but be sure that the temperature of the chamber is not above 60 degrees Fahren- heit, and let the room be properly ventilated, which may be effected by occasionally leaving the door a little ajar. " Let him lie outside the bed or on a sofa ; if he be very ill, iixside the bed.^ with a sheet and a blanket only to cover him, but no thick coverlid. If he be allowed to lie on the lap, it only heats him and makes him rest- less. If he will not lie on the bed, let him rest on a ])illow placed on the lap; the pillow will cause him to lie cooler, and will more comfortably rest his wearied body. If he be at the breast, kce}> him to it; let him have no artifi'cial food, unless, if he be thirsty, a little water and toasr. If he be weaned, let him have either milk and water, arrow-root made with equal parts of milk and water, toast and water, barley -watiM-, or weak, black tea, with plenty of new milk in it, etc. But, until the inilanimatiou has subsided, neither broth nor beef-tea." 262 HOME MANUAL. "Now, with regard to medicine, the best medicine is ipecacuanha wine, given in large doses, so as to produce constant nausea. The ipecac- uanha abates fever, acts on the skin, loosens the cough, and, in point of fact, in the majority of cases will rapidly effect a cure. Let a teaspoon- ful of the mixture be taken every four hours. " It in a day or two he be no better, but worse, by all means continue the mixture, whether it produces sickness or otherwise, and put on the chest a tela vesicatoria, prepared and applied as I recommended when treating of the inflammation of the lungs. " The ipecacuanha wine and the tela vesicatoria are my sheet-anchors in bronchitis, both of infants and of children. They rarely, even in very severe cases, fail to eSect a cure, provided the tela vesicatoria be properly applied, and the ipecacuanha wine be genuine and of good quality. " If there be any difficulty in procuring good ipecacuanha wine, the ipecacuanha may be given in powder instead of the wine. The following is a pleasant form: Take of — Powder of ipecacuanha, twelve grains ; White sugar, thirty -six grains. Mix well together, and divide into twelve powders. One of the powders to be put dry on the tongue every four hours. " The ipecacuanha powder will keep better than the wine, an impor- tant consideration to those living in country places ; nevertheless, if the wine can be procured fresh and good, I far prefer the wine to the powder. "When the bronchitis has disappeared, the diet ought gradually to be improved — rice, sago, tapioca and light batter-pudding, etc., and in a few da^'S either a little chicken or a mutton chop, mixed with a well-mashed potato and crumb of bread, should be given. But let the improvement in the diet be gradual, or the inflammation might return. " What not to do. — Do not apply leeches. Do not give either emetic tartar or antimonial wine, which is emetic tartar dissolved in wine. Do not administer either paregoric or syrup of poppies, either of which would stop the cough, and would thus prevent the expulsion of the phlegm. Any fool can stop a cough, but it requires a wise man to rectify the mischief. A cough is an effi)rt of nature to bring up the phlegm, which would otherwise accumulate, and in the end cause death. Again, therefore, let me urge upon you the immense importance of not stopping the cough of a child. The ipecacuanha wine will, by loosening the phlegm, loosen the cough, which is the only right way to get rid of a cough. Let what I have now said be impressed deeply upon your mem- ory, as thousands of children are annually destroyed by having their HOME MANUAL. 263 coughs stopped. Avoid, until the bronchitis be relieved, giving him broths and neat, and stimulants of all kinds. For further observations on what not to do in bronchitis, turn to what not to do in inflammation of the lungs. That which is injurious in the one case is equally so in the other." SIMPLE REMEDIES FOR CONSTIPATION. The practice of giving " opening medicines," cannot be too much deprecated ; but where it is absolutely necessary^ one or two teaspoonfuls of syrup of senna, repeated if needful in four hours, will generally answer the purpose ; or, for a change, one or two teaspoonfuls of castor oil may be substituted ; honey, too, is excellent, a teaspoonful given either by it self, or on a slice of bread. But it is infinitely better, when possible, to open the bowels by a judicious regulation of the diet. Bran-bread with molasses is excellent for the purpose, and as molasses is wholesome, it may be substituted for butter when the bowels are inclinea to be costive. A roasted apple, eaten with raw sugar, is another excellent mild aperient for a child. Milk- gruel — that is to say milk thickened with oat-meal — forms an excellent food for him, and often keeps his bowels regular, and thus (which is a very important consideration) supersedes the necessity of giving him ai aperient. An orange (taking care he does not eat the peel or the pulp), or a fig after dinner, or a few Muscatel raisins, will frequently regulate the bowels. Stewed prunes is another admirable remedy for the costiveness of a child. The manner of stewing them is as follows : Put a pound of p-uaes into a brown jar, add two tablespoonfuls of raw sugar, then cover the prunes and the sugar with cold water ; place them in the oven, and let them stew for a few hours. A child should, every morning, eut a half dozen or a dozen of them, until the bowels are relieved, taking care thai he does not swallow the stones. incxpensibe JBebices fox l^ouse IBecorations. TIE increasing desire to possess prettj rooms has led to various ingenious devices on the part of those, who, not having a Avell-filled purse with which to purchase the latest in- ventions of upholsterers and cabinet-makers, are forced to make deft fingers and busy brains supply their needs. Even articles relegated to lumber-rooms have been brought out and converted into "things of beauty," for the adornment of parlor or chamber, and the woolen rags that accumulate in every house can be turned, by the expenditure of a little time and patience, into rugs that will be very pretty additions to sitting- room or chamber. COFFEE-BAG RUG. Cut the coffee-bag — if not procurable, any coarse sacking may be substituted — into the size and shape desired ; then cut pieces of woo! into strips half an inch wide, and, with a coarse needle, darn them in and out lengthwise through the material, not drawing them flat to the founda- tion, but leaving loops nearly an inch in height between each stitch. Taste in arranging the colors is of course needed. After the darning is finished, the M^hole surface is evenly clipped. A very pretty style is to make a black border, and fill in the centre with grey, dotted at intervals with circles of blue or scarlet. Or the centre may be darned hap-hazard Avith a variety of bright colors. Other combinations will suggest themselves 264 HOME MANUAL. 265 to ihe worker, who must necessarily be guided somewhat by the hues of tlie rags from which she is to manufacture the rug. SET OF FURNITURE. The most ordinary wooden furniture can be transformed, by the aid of a little paint and some cretonne, into as dainty a set for the "best bed- room," as the heart of woman could desire. Begin with the bedstead, which we will suppose to be of the ordinary pattern, with head and foot board of nearly the same height. Paint first with white and outline with bands of red, or the color almost every one admires — pale blue — if the paper will permit. Next take a wooden hoop painted to match the bedstead and suspend from the ceiling by a brass chain above the bed. Buy ten yards of some pretty thin material — dotted swiss, scrim, or cheese-cloth will answer — • cut into two lengths, sew them together, then pass through the hoop and sew two of the edges together. This will fall behind the bed and keep the curtains from separating. A ruffle of the same material or a border of lace sewed to the edge will add to the effectiveness of the drapery. Next loop the curtains back just above each corner of the head-board with ribbon bows of a harmonizing color. DRESSING-TABLE. Choose a small table with a drawer, and hang above it a mirror in a frame painted to match the colors of the furniture. Cover the top of the table with the same material as the hangings of the bed, lined with a contrasting color, gather around the edge a flounce — also lined if practi- cable — deep enough to reach the floor, and hang above on the wall a mir- ror in a wooden frame painted to match the furniture, with drapery like that of the bed, caught above it with knots of ribbon. WASH-STAND. This piece of furniture should be painted to correspond with the other articles, and finished by a dainty white cover, fringed at the ends, with embroidery above. Choose, if possible, a toilet set to match the colors of the room. CHAIRS. Common wooden chairs of the kind styled "kitchen " may be made extremely pretty by painting to match the colors of the furniture and put- ting on the seats cushions stuffed with excelsior and covered with cretonne. To make a delightl'ul little sewing-chair, have the logs of one sawed oft' about one-third their length, the Inick ones a trifle shorter than the front. For the rocker, add a cushion tied across with bows at the top of the back, as well as on the seat. If fortunate enough to possess in addition 266 HOME MANUAL. one of the old-fashioned settees often found in country farm-houses, paint it to match the other pieces of furniture, and tie cretonne covered cush- ions on the seat and back. BOOK-CASE. An old bureau, minus the looking-glass, belonging to any cottage-set, can be converted into a pretty book-caseby paint, brass handles, and on the top a set of shelves made by fastening two upright boards on the side of the bureau, and three across. Screw brass rings into each end of the top shelf, slip a bamboo rod through the ends, and hang on the rod curtains of any heavy material that harmonizes in color. WARDROBE. A very pretty wardrobe can be improvised from two boards, five feet in height, and one in width, with two other boards crossing at tbe top and bottom. Fasten casters into the four corners at the bottom, and screw brass rings into each end of the top board. Make a pair of curtains full and long enough to fall from the top to the bottom, hem the tops, slip a brass wire through the hem, and pass the ends of the wire through the brass hooks. Then screw into the upper- board the double hooks that can be obtained in any hardware store for the purpose. MANTEL-PIECE. Many houses contain the high old-fashioned wooden mantel-pieces, painted to imitate yellow grained black marble, which are an "eye-sore" to the luckless owner. An artistic friend of the writer, having endured the affliction of one of them till, as she declared, "patience ceased to be a virtue," hit upon a plan which converted the monstrosity into an ornament, all by the aid of a little paint. After ebonizing the entire surface, a spray of flowers was painted in each panel, care being taken to select blossoms whose tints harmonized with the decorations of the room. In a chamber furnished with white and blue, a mantel-piece of this kind would be pretty painted white, with the panels outlined in blue. This demands no skill. If desired, some geometrical design or figure in outline can be painted in each panel. Above the mantel-piece fasten two shelves, the upper one shorter than the lower — supporting them on brackets. HALL-SEAT. Still another clever plan for transforming a very ordinary article into a decorative one was devised by a lady with a scanty purse. A plain wooden school bench was stained to imitate cherry , and supplied with a long cushion covered with cretonne, finished at each corner w iih cords and tasseia. HOME MANUAL. 267 MIRRORS. A broken looking-glass, usually considered one of the most useless things possible, can be restored to more than its pristine beauty by cut- ting the fragment into a square, round, or diamond shape, as the fracture best permits, and mounting it in a wooden frame, which may be gilded or painted with any design the worker's skill can compass. Plush frames, too are extremely pretty. WINDOW DRAPERIES. A novel window curtain designed by a German lady merits descripK tion. It is made of squares of the yellow silk ribbon used for tying bundles of cigars. These squares are joined together by bands of antique lace insertion until the desired length is obtained. The top and bottom are neatly hemmed, and the lower edge is finished by a border of white lace, a row of fringe, or small gilt ornaments. MORE COSTLY ARTICLES FOR ROOM DECORATION". The descriptions given for converting inexpensive, old-fashioned, shabby, and dilapidated articles into useful and pretty pieces of furniture will afford sug- gestions for many other sim- ilar plans; but we must not for- get to mention more costly bits of decoration, whose manufac- ture, aided by the description and illustra- tions, Avill ])VO- sent no dilHcul ties. Fig. 1 shows a painted tam- bourine made to serve the ]tur- posc of a plio- PiG. 1. tograph frame. PHOToauAi'u Frame. 268 HOME MANUAL. The design of Cupid climbing a bulrush is so clearly given in the illustra- tion that no one who has any skill in painting will have the slightest difficulty in copying it. The drapery is light blue silk, and the ribbons may be either two shades of the same color or in contrasting tints. TENNIS RACKET WALL-POCKET. Fig. 2 displays a tennis racket decorated with folds of plush so ar- ranged as to form a wall-pocket. A pretty novelty to adorn the room of some college student who is an adept in the game, BRIC-A-BRAC TABLE. Fig. 3 shows a novel design for a bric-a-brac table, which will help many a housekeeper to solve the problem of how to conceal a fire-place in summer, or at any time when not in use. The pattern can be easily followed by any cabinet-maker, and the table should then be painted either white and gold, or any tint that harmonizes with the room in which it is to be placed. By means of a removable brass rod, screwed on at the back of the table, curtains of silk or plush are arranged to fall before the fire-place. SCRAP BASKET. Fio*. 4 shows a beau- o tiful scrap basket. The model illustrated was fourteen and a half in- ches high, lined with soft rose-colored silk, and draped with pale green and rose. The style is not only grace- ful and pretty in itself, Fig. 3. HOME MANUAL. 26? but will aiFord suggestions for numerous variations, and a tasteful scrap basket is always welcome. NEWSPAPER HOLDER. Fia:. 5 illustrates one of the new desisrns for the convenient newspaper wall pockets which are now made in numerous materials and styles. The foun- dation is usually cloth, embroidered in various ways. The model in the cut is more elaborate. Upon a back-ground of terra-cotta cloth the word newspapers was cut in clear letters from the cloth and appliqued up- on a band of plush. Below it a spray of large marguer- ites and leaves was traced, mider which was inserted a circle of terra-cotta plush. The banner is lined with silk or satin, and a second piece of satin, fastened only at the top and bottom, serves to form the pocket. The top is fastened to a brass or gilt rod, suspended by a cord match- ing the f o u n- d a t i o n of the holder. Fio. 5. DUSTER BAG. Fig. 6 represents a beautiful duster bag; the material is a rich shade of garnet plush, handsomely embroidered in chenille; but, of course, both fabric and colors can be varied indefinitely to suit the taste of the maker. 270 HOME MANUAL. Fig. 7. PALM LEAF WALL POCKET. Fig. 7 is a new variety of palm leaf v/all pocket. The outer fan is cut in the shape seen in the illustration ; both are gilded or painted with any of the new metal paints, and then edged with plush and a border of pale green plaited rushes. Other combina- tions of trimming will suggest themselves. A large bow of ribbon finishes the handle. CHINESE LANTERN WORK-BASKET. Fig. 8 is a beautiful work-basket shaped like a Chinese lantern. The height of the model is nine inches and a half. The cov- ering is cream canvas, daintily embroidered in Oriental colorings, and a large full bow of scarlet ribbon decorates it on one side. WHITE AND GOLD SEAT. Fig. 9 represents a beautiful and novel piece of drawing-room furniture, a seat of unique shape — which any cabinet-maker, however, can copy from the cut — upholstered in bright crimson plush, richly embroidered. After the cabinet-maker has finished the seat in ordi- nary wood, ai jsf^ paint white and varnish, — or use white enamel paint if ob- tainable — then cover the seat with, embroidered or plain plush, bro- cade, or any material that suits the .O.-rA^ /:MS^ 'WlllllkX fancy. WORK-STAND. Fig. 8. FiQ. 9. Fig. 10 is one of the ever use- ful work-stands idealized to fill a corner in the drawing-room and hide HOME MANUAL. 271 Fig. 10. from sight tlie half finished embroidery cr more prosaic bit of sewing with which chance moments may be filled. An ordinary " folding stand," which can be shut up if space is narrow, is painted in white enamel, gilded, or stained with cherry, lined wnth a satin bag of some contrasting color, and tied with long ribbons. PRETTY LITTLE COXVEOTE^CES. PIN SCREEN. !N"o. 1 is a useful and charming novelty — a pin screen for the dressing- table or bureau — the pattern is cut from stiff* paper, according to the fol- lowing measurements. The first panel is six inches long on one side and five inches on the other, curved at the top, as seen in the illustration ; the second is five inches long on one side and four inches on the other, the smallest panel being only four inches on the longest side and three inches on the shortest ; each has the same curved top as the first, and all are straight at the bottom. Take cardboard, not too heavy, cut two panels of each size, and cover them with surah of some delicate shade, joining them neatly together with fine sewing silk ; then with double thread join the three panels loosely together, that they may be made to stand up like a screen. Each one is then painted with some delicate blossom in water colors. The pin^ 272 HOME MANUAL. at the top are small Englisli pins; those at the bottom, forming the rollers, are large silver headed or brass headed ones. Those used for pinning the bows of bonnet strings are suitable. BUTTON BAGS. Take twelve inches of three pretty shades of ribbon three or four inches wide ; three shades of green may be chosen, or two white and one yellow, a real buttercup yellow, or the golden browns and yellow are lovely. Join the edges to within an inch of the end, making them only six inches long, and hem the tops neatly — a hem about three-quarters of an inch is a nice size. ITow work eyelets, two on each side of each of the three bags, and run a cord of some pretty con- trasting color, or one to match, if desired, through them, to draw them up. A little brass ornament of any kind can be put on the outside bag, and may also be sewed on the bottoms. The outside bags should be painted ; on one a flower, on the other a motto for buttons. One seen in New York by the writer had : " Three little bags are we. All for buttons, one, two, three ; Pull the string and then you'll see Three little bags are we." PACHA PINCUSHION. This is a present which will be appreciated by any young girl who likes to see pretty things on her bureau. Cut from satin a circular piece three inches in diameter, then gather a bias piece to fit it and sew firmly to the round. Shirr the upper part of the piece till the opening at the top is the same size as the satin round underneath, thus forming a puif which is stufled with soft wool wadding. Next make a second cushion the exact size of the circular opening, cover it with silk, or cotton cloth, and fasten it to the under one. Next cut from black or white cloth or flannel a circle two or three inches larger than the small cushion, and shape the extra size into points. Embroider on each one a small design, and edge with a row of feather-stitching. The round center should also be outlined with a row of feather-stitching, and the middle must then be filled up with an embroidery of bright col- ored silks in any fancy stitches or patterns to give an Oriental eflect. Finish the end of each point with a tassel, and sew one also between 1^? '«^^j- A ^^ ''5'- J \6» •^^»'|^u^r.ft HOME COMFORT. I^ints for tje |^i3uscf)0ltr. ^Nothing lovelier can be found in woman, than to study household good. ^^ — Mii^ton. 'HOME is pre- eminently woman's k in gdo m, and every "house -mo- ther," using the lender German name, should reign an un- crowned queen. If Heaven has entrusted to her the responsibility of rich- es, and like Solomon's lilies of the field she need neither toil nor spin, she should still be able to direct, for sooner or later, she must render an account of her stewardship. When she must be at once mistresrs and maid, subject as well as sovereign, these hints may be of service. The gourmand lives to eat, but the wise man eats to live. Though rules for cooking will not be inclu- ded in this article, there are a few sugges- tions that will render that occupation eas- ier ; therefore let our first visit be to THE KITCHEN. If you bum coal, see that the stove is thoroughly cleaned out in the morning be- fore a fresh fire is started, for in no other way can you secure a clear, bright fire dur- ing the day. Be sure that the ashes are sifted, and slightly dampen the cinders be- fore using them, for this promotes combus- tion. Since American enterprise has succeeded in sujjplying reliable tinie-kecpcrs at so low a figure, every kitchen should reckon a clock among its outfit. Having learned from cookery-books, verified by personal experiment, the average length of time required for cooking the usual meats, poul- try, vegetables, etc., make a list of these and hang it up in some convenient place in your kitchen. A small scrubbing-brush for cleaning such vegetables as are cooked in their skins, as potatoes and beets ; a pair of sharp-pointed scissors for opening fish, small birds, etc. ; a wall pin-cushion con- taining, besides pins and needles, a large darning-needle for sewing up poultry ; a bag with a thimble, coarse thread, soft cot- ton for the darning-needle, twine, and nar- row strips of muslin for tying up bunches of asparagus ready for cooking ; a coarsely crocheted or netted bag for boiling cauli- flower in ; a box containing nails of diff"er- ent sizes, tacks, a gimlet, and a hammer ; several small boards to set hot pots and pans on, while dishing their contents, and a linked chain dish-cloth for scouring the inside of pots and pans when they have been used to cook any article that sticks, may all with advantage, be added to the usual kitchen furnishing. All cooking utensils should be kept free from soot, as less fire is required to boil the contents of a bright, clean saucepan or kettle. Should they have been neglected and have become very black, rub them with a flannel rag dipped first in oil, then in powdered brick, and polish with a dry flannel, and a little more brick-dust. All pots and pans are easier to wash if a little hot water is poured into them, when their contents are emptied out, then place them on the rack at the back of the stove or on the hearth until it is convenient to wash them. When onions have been boiled or fried, after washing the vessel, put several spoon- fuls of ashes in it, pour on boiling water and let it .stand for awhile on the stove. Silver should always be washed in clean, hot water, as soap dulls the polish. lu 279 S80 HOME MANUAL. washing up after meals take the glasses first, next the silver, then such dishes as are not greasy, and lastly, those which are ; these are best washed through two waters. Never let knives lie in water, as this discolors and loosens the handles ; the practice of placing knives in an old jug and pouring hot water on them, is also to be deprecated, as the intense heat of the blade is c o m- municated to the shank, which melts the ce- ment, and in time loosens the handle. Alwaj's have two cloths for cleaning knives ; wet the first with water, dip it into fine ashes or brick- dust, and rub the knife free from spots ; then pol- ish with the sec- ond cloth, dry, add a little more of the ashes or dust; lastly, wipe on a clean, dry towel. Corn- cobs dried in the oven, nut-shells, and bones should all be used for kind- ling. Though the tea- towels should be washed and aired every day, it is a good plan to have two sets of them ; Monday morning the set that has been used during the pre- vious week, goes into the regular wash, is ironed and darned, should any breaks ap- pear. A small lump of sugar, added to the starch, will keep clothes from sticking to the irons, but there should always be a piece of beeswax sewed in the top of £.n old stocking, on which to rub the latter. Two or three times a year, the clothes-line, if it is a cotton rope, and the pins, should be placed in the wash-boiler, and clean, hot water poured upon them ; after remaining a short time, thoroughly dry them in the sunlight. Though rinsed out as many limes a day as necessary, when all the work is done, the sink should be thoroughly flushed with clean, hot water, so as to wash out any impurities that may be lurking in the sewer-trap. SWEEPING AND CLEANING. Begin by dust- ing all the bric- a-brac and car- ry i n g it to a place of safety ; the smaller ar- ticles can be placed in a wide, shallow basket kept for that purpose, or on a tray. Next, with a soft dus- ter, cheese-cloth is the best, and a whisk, thor- oughly clean all upholstered fur- niture, carrying the little articles to the hall or an a d j o i n i n g room, and cover- ing the larger pieces with dusting sheets ; glass globes to the gas fixtures must be washed with warm, soapy water, and rinsed in cold water, in which a little whiting has been dissolved. Shake the window curtains and fold them up as high as you can reach, and pin them there, being careful to avoid all risk of tearing them ; dust the shades with a feather brush, and roll them up as high as they will go. Should the stove or grate HOME MANUAL. 281 need attention, spread a piece of coarse canvas or old bed ticking before the fire- place, so as to protect your carpet, remove the ashes, and attend to anj^ polishing nec- essary. Brush down the walls, carefully dust the picture frames, and then begin your sweeping. Use a whisk to rid the corners and the edges of the carpet of dust, then gently, but with a steady stroke, sweep all the dirt into the middle of the room, and take it up in a dust pan. Repeat this operation to secure any dust that may have blown back. Should the carpet be very dusty, moist tea leaves scattered over the floor before beginning to sweep, vrill gather up most of the fine dust and prevent its rising and settling on the walls, etc. It freshens and cleans a carpet won- derfully to wipe it thoroughly with a woolen cloth wrung out of water mixed with household ammonia. Ink stains may be removed with salt. If they have dried, slightly moisten the salt with water, scatter it over the stains, and keep gently brushing it back and forth until it is quite black, substitute more salt, and so con- tinue until all the ink is drawn out of the carpet and absorbed by the salt. If the ink is freshly s])illed, you need not dam- pen your salt. Should your window panes need washing in freezingly cold weather, best do it with a soft cloth dipped in alcohol ; at other times a little whiting dissolved in the water adds to the brilliant transparency of the glass. In all cases polish with old newspapers. Having at- tended to your windows, once more care- fully dust the walls, pictures, gas-fixtures, and all cornices and mouldings; draw down your shades ; unpin and drape your curtains ; fold up the dust sheets so as to gather up all the dust that has set- tled on them, and carry them from the room, which is ready now to Ije i)ut in or- der. If you burn lamps, kce]) them scru])u- lously clean. Wicks soaked in strong vinegar and dried before being used, will not smoke. Two or three times a year the part of the lamp containing the wick should be boiled in water in which wash- ing soda has been dissolved ; this will im- prove the quality of the light and obviate the danger of an explosion. Never raise a lighted lamp quickly in a perpendicular direction, as this is apt to send a strong current of air down the chimney, driving the flame into the oil, and causing an ex- plosion. Lift the lamp gently in a slightly slanting direction. Nickel plated lamps must never be washed with soap, as this spoils the polish and makes them look like pewter. Wipe them, instead, with a soft cloth dipped in vinegar. Lamp chim- neys, even of flint glass, are less liable to crack if immersed in cold water, which is gradually heated to the boiling point and then allowed to cool. Do not remove the chimney until the water is quite cold. Lamps are more satisfactory when at- tended to every day. A dainty addition to any room is one of the now popular rose-jars. A delightful potpourri can be made by the following tested receipt : yz peck of rose leaves, yi. pound of common salt, yi pound of bay salt, Yt. pound of common brown sugar, I oz. of storax, I oz. of benzoin, I oz. of ground orris root, I oz. of ground cinnamon, I oz. of ground mace, I oz. of ground cloves. All the above are to be pounded and mi.xed by a druggist. Add all sorts of sweet flowers and the leaves of orange and lemon verbena, but no leaves that are not in themselves aromatic. Put the ingredients in a rose- jar and stir frequently with a wooden spoon. After thoroughly cleaning and airing your room, close it, open your rose-jar for a while, and the delicate perfume adds that touch of refinement tliat ])r()claims the personal supervision of the mislress. 282 HOME MANUAL. SUGGESTIONS ABOUT SERVANTS. servants' account. NAME. CASH PAYMENTS. CASH PAYMENTS. TOTAL T^ME. RATE. DATE AMOUNT DATE AMOUNT There is no problem of daih^ life more difficult to solve than the one frequently termed the "servant question." Rules are hard to eive, since establishments vary from a retinue of domestics to a single maid of all work. Widely, however, as the circum- stances in which mistresses are placed may differ, the following brief directions are applicable to all ca&es : Never reprove servants in the presence of others. Avoid irresolution, undue fault- finding, familiarity, or display of ill-temper, and endeavor to show all possible considera- tion for their comfort. Whether the number of domestics is large or small, system is absolutely necessary to ensure comfort, and since the proportion of American families who employ one ser- vant is larger than of those who maintain more extensive establishments, the plan of a well-known writer on household affairs, though it will undoubtedly need alterations to suit the requirements of different fami- lies, may afford valuable hints to many a perplexed housekeeper. Her directions, beginning with Monday morning, extend through the week. The one maid must rise early enough to accomplish part of the washing before breakfast. By rising at five, there will be two hours before it is time to lay the table and prepare the first meal. A clean cap and long white apron should always be kept hanging in the kitchen closet, ready for the ser\-ant to put on to serve the meals or to open the door. It is better for the mistress to own these articles, since if given to the servants they depart with them, and, in our American house- holds, alas, a change of domestics is too apt to be a frequent occurrence. After having cooked the breakfast and waited at the table, the girl sets before her mistress a neat dish-pan, a mop, and two clean towels ; then takes the heavy dishes, knives and forks into the kitchen, while the lady washes the glass, silver, and china. Having accomplished this task and put the glass and china aw^ay, the lady shakes and folds the table-cloth, sweeps the dining- room with a light broom, and dusts it carefully, opening the windows to air the apartment, and then proceeds to set the parlor in order. Meanwhile the servant should go to the chambers, turn the mat- tresses, make the beds, and then go back to the kitchen, clean the pots and kettles used in preparing the breakfast, and then devote her undivided attention to the heavy HOME MANUAL. 283 work of washing. Care should be taken to choose a plain dinner— steaks or chops, potatoes, and some ready-made dessert. The afternoon is occupied by finishing the •washing, hanging out the clothes, and get- ting the tea, which must be a meal easily cooked ; for the " tidying up " of the kitchen is yet to be done before the girl can rest. It will be a great assistance, in places where the visiting is sufficiently informal to permit it, if some member of the family opens the door on busy da3S. Tuesday, by general consent, is assigned to the work of ironing ; and here it will usually be necessary for the mistress to "lend a hand," and aid in clear-starching and ironing the fine clothing. Wednesday is devoted to baking part of the cake, bread, and pies that will be needed during the week. In this work .the mistress helps by washing the currants, stoning the raisins, beating the eggs, and making the light pastry. Often a lady who has a taste for cooking makes all the desserts, cakes, and pies. She should never consider it extravagant to supply herself with the best cooking utensils — egg-beaters, sugar-sifters, double-boilers, etc., and, if a good house- keeper, she will find both pride and pleas- ure in her jars of home-made pickles and preserves. Thursday the maid must sweep the house thoroughly, for this work, if the carpets are heavy, requires strength. The mistress then dusts room after room, and, last of all, the servant follows with a step-ladder to wipe off mirrors and windows. Friday is commonly occupied in general house-cleaning : scrul)bing the floors, clean- ing the brasses and silver, scouring the knives, and putting linen-closets and draw- ers in order. Saturday is filled with baking bread and cake, preparing the Sunday dinner that the servant may have her Sunday afternoon out, and the toil of the week closes with a thoroughly swept and orderly house, a clean kitclien, and all the cooking done cxcci)t tlie meat and vegetables for the Sunday dinner. Of course the routine given above will not suit all families ; many persons may prefer to make a different apportionment their work ; but whatever the sj-stem fixed upon may be, it should be rigidly carried out, and the maid should receive all the help in her manifold duties that punctuality and order bestow. Under the most favorable circumstances it is a credit to any mistress to carry on the work of a house through the week, with three meals daily, and to accomplish it she must be capable of doing much of the light work herself and be careful to secure a strong and willing maid servant. CARE OF THE SPARE ROOM. One of the joys of house-keeping is the pleasure of exercising hospitality, but it is useless to deny that the enjoyment we derive from our friends' visits is at least somewhat curtailed, if we are compelled to make a general revolution in all the house- hold arrangements in order to secure a chamber in which to place the welcome guest. Therefore, if possible, every home should have one "spare chamber, ' ' only — do not let it be the best and brightest room in the house. A visitor's stay is but short, and to adopt that plan would mean closing one of the cheeriest and sunniest apartments for half the year and relegating some member of the family to an inferior room, which by the exercise of a little taste and skill, might be rendered very charming quarters for friends, who, since they come to spend most of tlieir time with their hostess, are not ex- pected to remain many hours in their rooms. After the convenience of tlie regular in- mates of the household has been consider- ed, choose the pleasantest room remaining for the guest, or, if but one is left, use every device to render it as pretty and as comfortable as possible. An excellent j)lan for the filling up of a spare room is tojjut a dado of matting around the walls to protect tlicm from the wear and tear of visitors' trunk.s, which too often deface the p.iper, and even by loo frequent 284 HOME MANUAL. opening and shutting, make boles in the plaster. For a summer guest-room an English writer suggests, as exquisitely cool and pretty, white paint, paper of pale green, and green cretonne curtains with a pattern of lillies of the valley, white enamel furni- ture, and an eider down quilt covered with pale green silk for the bed. Dainty as this would be, however, it is open to two drawbacks— many persons object to green as being liable to contain arsenic, and charming as such decorations might be in summer, they would produce a chilling effect in the dull days of autumn and win- ter, and the majority of house-keepers need a spare room that will be attractive all the year around. Nevertheless the description affords valu- able hints for fitting up a room. Rose-color could be substituted for the pale-green, or in a chamber facing north, Indian-red would not be too brilliant. Four pillows and four or five good blan- kets should always be supplied to the spare room bed, three pairs of sheets, and twelve pillow-cases, four of which should be em- broidered with a monogram in the centre or otherwise decorated, as should also one pair of the sheets. The pillow-cases should be removed at bed-time and folded up. A white counter pane is always pretty, and a Madras coverlet flung over the bed in sum- mer has a very dainty effect. If the household accommodations are limited to one spare room, it should always contain a double bed, otherwise only one person could be entertained ; married cou- ples thus being excluded from hospitality. Even if the chamber is small, it does not matter, provided that the bed is comfort- able. Spend thought, care, and as much money as the purse can afford in making the spare room cheery and pleasant, and above all let it be always in such order that it can be ready to receive a guest at a half hour's no- tice. If there is nothing to be done except to put clean sheets on the bed there will be no domestic turmoil caused b}- rushing to and fro to procure this, that, and the other necessary article, while our guests are made uncomfortable by the consciousness of the trouble they have occasioned. Another point to be remembered is not to lumber the drawers and shelves of the spare room with garments or household furnishings put away for storage. Nothing gives a guest a sense of greater discomfort than to see a collection of household goods hurriedl}- tumbled out of their receptacles to make way for her belongings. No article intended for the spare room should be allowed to be used elsewhere, otherwise something will be forgotten when the guest arrives to take possession. See that a clothes hamper, a pin-cushion, a match-box, supplied with matches, are fur- nished. Another convenient article is a pretty wall-cupboard for holding medicine and toilet bottles, which if no place is pro- vided for them, are apt to be set on the dainty toilet-cover, where they leave sticky rings. Of course any careful hostess will see that the soap-dish has a fresh cake of soap, that the water in the pitcher is pure, and that clean towels in abundance, neatly fold- ed, hang on the rack. SOME WAYS TO MAKE HOME BEAUTlFUIv. Small rooms should always have light paper, as this adds to the apparent size. In choosing a carpet for such a room, avoid large figures ; where economy is an object, that carpet wears best which is evenly woven, soft and pliable to the touch, and has but little float work. In hanging pict- ures, see that the light really comes from the direction that it appears to do in your picture. In the bed-room a dry -goods box, furnished with wooden castors, at the cost of twenty-five cents for the four, and neat- ly covered with chintz or cretonne, the top stuffed with ten cents' worth of Eureka packing, will be found not only a comfort- able seat, but a most welcome addition to the room, should it be without closets, or the furniture rot include a wardrobe. A HOME MANUAL. 285 much smaller box, similarly covered, makes a couvenient receptacle for shoes. A win- dow with a southern exposure is a real treasure, for with small expense a wide board can be fitted on the sill and two others at equal distances across the window, thus giving you three shelves capable of containing fifteen or twenty pots. All the different varieties of the geranium, coleus, begonia, and ivy, sweet scented violets, Chinese primroses, cyclamen, mignonette, etc., do well in a window garden, and will keep you supplied with a cluster of flowers and bright leaves, or a flowering plant for the center of your dinner table. "When the latter is used, if you have not one of the expensive china flower pots in which to set the clay one, a pretty substitute may be made by crocheting a cover of rnac- rame thread. Stiffen this with starch made with strong coffee instead of water, draw it over a clean flower-pot, and let it thoroughly dry ; then varnish and add a hint of gilding here and there — gild the handles — and if you desire a bit of color, add a bow of ribbon, which may be varied to suit the requirements of the occasion. Waste no space in your sunny window with palms or ferns, as these do better away from strong sunlight. Fern pans are constant sources of wonder and delight. Any kind of a pan will do — a discarded baking-pan that does not leak, when treated to a coat of green paint, will answer every purpose. Fill your pan in early autumn with wood soil, and then collect your treasures. Here is a pretty arrangement — center, jack-in- the-pulpit, a circle of ferns, at each end a cluster of dandelions with an outer circle of wild strawberry and hepaticas. FOR THE COMFORT OF THE HOUSEHOI,D. If your house is small and your family large, a folding screen in each bed-room becomes a necessity. Very pretty inex- pensive ones may be made by covering the wooden frame— a light clothes-horse will do — with coarse canvas, and on this arrang- ing pictures cut from illustrated papers ; when the canvas is entirely covered, var- nish the whole and be happj- in the knowl- edge that you have added a most important adjunct to your bed-room furniture, as well as provided many an hour's amusement for a sick child in hunting out the various pict- ures. Should there be a sick person in your household, what greater luxury than cool water, especially if the illness be accompanied with fever. To secure this without ice, melt a handful of coarse salt and a tablespoonful of saltpetre in a quart of water poured into a shallow pan ; fill a stone jar with fresh clear water; cover its mouth with a plate ; set it in the pan ; thor- oughly saturate a heavy cloth in water, and with it cover the jar, tucking the ends of the cloth into the shallow pan ; set the whole arrangement, if possible, in a draught. Renew the water in the pan each day, but the salt and saltpetre need not be added more than once a month. Firm, sweet butter can be secured in the same way. To return to the sick child, nothing secures a quiet night's rest, after the fatigue of lying in bed all day, better than to rub the body gently all over with a Turkish towel. For delicate persons who cannot bathe freely in cold weather, and who do not take much exercise, this dry rubbing should be part of the daily toilet. Intelli- gent discrimination in the food selected will add much to the comfort of the house- hold. Solid food may be divided into three classes : those that keep the body warm and give it strength ; those that keep the body in repair ; and those that keep the brain and nerves in good order and make the bones strong and hard. The first are such as contain starch, as potatoes, corn, rice, etc. ; /at, as in meat, butter, cheese, milk, etc ; and sugar, which is found in beets, milk, and fruits. The second con- tain albumen, as in the white of an egg; fibruie, as in fish and the lean part of meat; gluten, as in brown bread, oatmeal, and kindred substances ; and casein, the solid part of milk in cheese. The third contains m/wd'ra/ substances, as water, common salt, and many of the fresh vegetables. A full- grown man requires twenty-one ounces of 286 HOME MANUAL. solid food daily ; sixteen ounces of strength- giving ; four ounces of the flesh-repairing ; and one ounce of mineral food. Then he should take about three pints of liquid every day. Aside from milk and sugar, there is no real nutriment in tea ; but when not allowed to stand too long it is a gentle stimulant to the nerves, and it also hinders the wear and waste of the body. Coffee has the same effect on the body as tea, with a slight difference ; it does not hinder wear and waste so much, but, as it contains a little sugar and a little fat, it adds to our strength. Cocoa and its kindred beverages contain fat, albumen, and gluten in the pro- portion of one-half its own weight, besides the valuable properties of tea and coffee ; consequently, the wise and truly economi- cal housewife will encourage its use as a preparation. Pure water, besides being re- freshing, helps the digestion and supplies much of the requisite one ounce of mineral food. As much of one's comfort depends upon one's health, it would be well to re- member what Mrs. Samuel A. Barnett in "The Making of the Home" calls the Seven Golden Rules of Health : First: Wholesome and regular food, well masticated, is necessary to good health. Second : Regular heat obtained from food, clothing, fire, and exercise, is neces- sary. Third : Cleanliness is necessary ; this in- cludes clean air, clean clothes, clean homes, clean water, and clean skins. Fourth and Fifth : Light and exercise are necessary to good health. Sixth : Proper intervals of rest are es- sential. Seventh : Self-control is necessary. TO MAKE HOME PLEASANT. Small courtesies are to home life as the drop of oil to machinery which saves need- less wear, and secures smoothness and quiet. Make it a rule to begin the day with a bright good morning and a pleasant smile for each member of your household. If reproof is necessary, let it be given in private and never while you are irritated yourself Do not be stingy with your words of praise and always expect that those with whom you associate will do what is right and honorable. It is often a merciful re- straint on a child to feel that "mother" believes in him, and a certainty of appre- ciation and commendation is one of the greatest incentives to exertion. Mark the recurring festivals of Christmas and Easter, the anniversaries of birth and marriage, and even the old-fashioned St. Valentine's Day by some little present for the dear ones. It may be only a knot of flowers from your sunny window ; a delicately browned cake from your orderly kitchen ; a dainty trifle of needlework from your in- dispensable workbasket, or a loving letter should the dear one be away from home ; but no matter how insignificant the present in itself may be, the love, the kindly thought, the flattering remembrance im- plied are worth far more than money can ever buy. Good music is a fruitful source of pleasure, and children should be encour- aged to sing, as it expands the lungs and strengthens all the respiratory organs. Strive to acquire a voice like Cordelia, "soft and low, an excellent thing in wo- man," for tlien, even if your singing is not scientific, it will be a pleasure to listen to your voice. Make a practice of reading aloud yourself, and encourage your chil- dren to do so ; good Looks cultivate and re- fine while they amuse us. Dancing, when indulged in within the sacred precincts of home, is both a graceful and a healthful recreation ; the home billiard-table, shared with father, the game of cards with mother, the croquet or lawn tennis with sister, would often prove the salvation of the bright, restless boy to whom amusement is a positive necessity which, if not supplied by home, will be sought for elsewhere with what direful results too many heart-broken wives and mothers can testify. THE CONCI^USION OF THE WHOLE MATTER. We can give no better summing up of this important matter concerning the mak- ing of a home than to quote again from Mrs. Barnett : HOME MANUAL. 287 "To be a home-maker is not an easy- task. It requires much patience, bravery, foresight, and endurance. It calls for some knowledge, thought, and skill. It demands great hopefulness, tenderness, and, above all, unselfishness ; but, though it is so dffi- cult, it is none the less a grand privilege — a privilege which none dare think slight- ingly of; for is not the position of home- maker one which, nobly performed, will bring to every good woman the promise spoken of in the Bible, that ' her children will arise and call her blessed? ' " ,. •^'•«^^^^X^^fS2^n-'/'SfS^'«--*- lilca^ant mioxk for Kimtle fingers. VER since those early days, when Mother E^e made her famous apron of fig leaves, fancy work of some description, the creation of dainty devices out of otherwise useless odds and ends, has heen a favorite pastime with women to occupy their spare moments, Tlie work is divided into many branches, and each branch has many subdivisions and modifications, but all are pleasant and each requires nimble fingers. PATCHWORK. This is one of the oldest styles of fancy work, but one of the best to use up all the odds and ends that accumulate where a lady is her own dressmaker and milliner. Fig. 1, composed of squares and triangles, is a simple as well as effective design. In the blocks composed of triangles only two colors should be used. For a sofa pillow, the squares might be of plain silk or velvet, embroidered in prettily contrasting silks ; while the triangles would look well if made of brocade. A comfort made of scraps of cashmere, wadded with wool and lined with silesia, not only looks bright and pretty thrown across the foot of the bed, but is a light and warming covering during the " forty winks" that "grandma" needs to indulsre in at twilig-ht. Crazy patchwork, to be endurable, must, after all, have " method in its madness." Distinct artistic skill in the grouping and harmonizing of colors is indispensable to the beauty of the final result. The separate bits, if not decidedly handsome in themselves, may be embroidered, painted, or enlivened" with a design in applique. KNITTING. To Cast On: — Measure off a length of thread equal to four times the width required in the completed knitting. For instance, you wish to knit a wash-rag one-quarter of a yard wide then, at a distance of one yard from the end of your thread, make the first stitch. Allowing this take-up, you hold the thread under your second, third, and fourth fingers of your left HOME MANUAL. 289 hand, over your first finger, around your thumb from left to right, over the first finger of your right hand, under the second, over the third, and around the fourth. Hold the needle in your right hand, between the thumb and first finger ; let it lie on the thread as it passes from the left to the right hand ; insert its point beneath the thread, where it passes over the first finger of the left hand ; with the first finger of the right bandpass the thread around the point of the needle; draw the loop so made beneath the thread that lies across the first finger of the left hand and you will find a small loop on the needle and a large one around your left thumb ; slip your thumb from this loop, and with your left hand pull the thread until the large loop has been drawn into a knot close to the base of the small loop on the needle. Repeat until you have the required number of stitches. To Cast or Bind Off:—K\\\t the first and second stitches, draw the first over the second, knit the third and draw the second over it ; so pro- ceed until all the stitches have been used, pass the thread throuo:h the last stitch and draw it up. Always bind ofi' loosely unless directed to do otherwise. To Knit Plain: — Insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle, pass the thread around the point of the rio-lit-hand needle, and draw the loop thus formed through the stitch, at the same time dropping the old stitch from the left-hand needle. Continue in this way to the end. To Purl, Rib, or Seam .-—Bring the thread to the front of your work, that is, the side nearest you; pass your right-hand needle through the stitch from right to left, keeping it in front of the left-hand needle; draw the loop thus formed through the stitch on the left-hand needle; slip olf the old stitch and, if the next is to be knit plain, remember to pass your thread to the back of the work again, before commencing to knit the plain stitch. To Rib:— Any given number of stitches knitted plain and purled alternately. To Widen, Increase, or Make a Stitch :—I'as3 the thread around the right-hand needle before inserting it in a stitch on the left-hand needle. To Pick up or Raise a Stitch:— Pick up the thread that lies between the stitches and knit a stitch in it. To Knit Two Together, Decrease, or iVarrow;— Take up two stitches on your right-hand needle and knit them together as if they were one; or, slip one stitch over another as in bin