3 DETROIT, 1)]BJCEMBER 2, 1884. THE HQUSEHQLDamSmpplememto OUR DAILY REUKONING. If you sit down at set of sun And count the acts that you have done. And counting, find One self-denying act, one word That eased the heart of him who heard, One glance most kind That fell like sunshine where it went, Then you may count that day well spent. But it through all the IiVelong day You’ve cheered no heart by yea or nay, If through it all You’ve nothing done that you can trace That brought the sunshine to one face, No act most small, 'Phat helped some soul and nothing cost, Then count that day as worse than lost. -———-oo.—-— CHRISTMAS. Christmas is almost here again, and we must put our wits together to find suitable presents for our many friends. I have seen several pretty presents in process of preparation, and maybe by telling what they are I can help some of the House- holders who are trying to think of some- thing to make, but can’t hit on just the right thing. A pretty present to give to a gentleman friend is a bag for his soiled collars and cuffs, and as these are usually sent to the laundry it is desirable to keep them sep- arate from the rest of the soiled linen. Get a skein of very fine seine twine (the coarse twines have gone out of fashion,) crochet in mitten stitch a cylinder about six inches long and five inches in diame- ter, finish the edges in a pretty scallop; then for the bottom of the bag make a mat in a more open stitch, St W the bottom into the cylinder, and just inside where they are fastened together put apiece of old hoop-skirt, neatly covered with White cotton; put a piece of hoop—skirt just in- side the top edge too; these will hold the bag in shape. Hang a large tassel of the twine in the middle of the bottom; this will pull it down a little and make a pretty finish. Tie ribbons on each side, and tie them together in a long loop for a handle; or a handle may be crocheted, and a bow of ribbon put on each side where it is joined to the bag. An old Japanese fan may be made useful for a wall ornament by covering it on one side with cheap but bright satin; then take a piece of pasteboard the same shape but a little bit larger than the fan, cover this with felt, or with cloth in some dark shade that will go well with the satin and line it with the satin; cut it a little ay down the middle on side where the handle is on the fan, and turn back the corners, showing the satin lining; sew the pasteboard on to the fan so as to form a pocket. and finish the edge and the cor- ners that are turned back with a silk cord the same shade as the lining; t e an enor- mous bow of ribbon the color of the cloth on to the handle of the fan. and just be- hind this bow put on a loop to hang it- up by. Most every farmer keeps a peacock or two, and the feathers are Very useful to trim the house up with. One good way to use them is to get a piece of satin—old gold is a pretty shade—about fourteen inches long and twelve inches wide; sew a strip of cardinal plush about three inches in Width on each end of the satin and finish one end with a gold fringe. Sew the other end on to a little roller—a brass rod is prettiest if it can be obtained —-and put on a long loop of ribbon to hang it up by. Take five or six of your prettiest feathers and group them prettily in one corner so they will lie diagonally across the satin, and put on a large satin bow to hide the fastening. Crocheted underskirts are very fashion- able now, and they are also very warm and comfortable. Crochet a yoke to come down just over the hips in a close stitch which will not stretch easily, then crochet the skirt part in a fine shell stitch, or any other pretty fancy stitch. Finish off the bottom with a scallop and a narrow ruflie of lace falling from underneath. These are very nice for babies who have just been put into short clothes, as they cling to the child and keep him warm. Another very serviceable present for a child is a hood of white Angora wool. They are easily knit, and when trimmed with a band of swansdown, without any ribbon except just the ties, are extremely dainty. These hoods can be washed again and again without injuring them in the least, and if care is taken they can be worn three or four winters. Five balls of wool make a hood for a baby a year old, six or seven balls will be plenty for a child of five or six. A useful and ornamental present for a lady’s dressing-room is a board about ten by six inches, covered with plush or velvet on which are fastened four or five—four is the more fash- ionable number—brass hooks of some fancy design; a brass staple to hang it up, and the back is neatly lined with silesia. On one hook is hung the button hook, on another the long rubber or-shell hair pins so much used, and the others may be used for the watch at night, or for various little things which otherwise are thrown on the top of the bureau and look untidy. A case for kid gloves, which should never be folded, is made of felt. Take a piece about eighteen by ten inches, line it with satin or some soft material, bind it with ribbon, then tack a piece of ribbon along each long side about two inches from the edge, catching it about every three inches. The gloves are laid crosswise in the case, the tips of the fingers slipped through one loop of the ribbon and the wrist through the corres- ponding loop on the other edge. The case is to be rolled up, and should have a ribbon to tie around it. M. J. 11. DETROIT. I LL-MANNERED CHILDREN. I sincerely hope to be made welcome to the Household as this is my first call; 211— though I come to tell you of my last trial. I live on a farm, and as I presume a good many of the readers of the Household do, you know that the time for killing hogs must come. and with us just when my mother was sick. But I got the work done up in good shape, and as the next day was Sunday I was sure I would have a nice time to read and rest. Just as I was finishing up the work on Sunday morning, a knock was heard on the front door, and so fell my “castles in the air,” for as the door opened it admitted a trio to stay all day. 'Not but what I enjoy company, but in the country you never can tell what. time the house will be full of company, and you are expected to get dinner for them, even if there are sick ones in the house; but this trio brought a child with them. (Whyis there not more than one pretty, well-behaved child in ten ?) As I was requested to entertain the company with music, the child was placed in a rocking chair, and was he conten”.ed to sit there? No; not until he placed the rocking chair against a second chair, so as to makea noise, and the last chair against the window. His mother moved him several times, and he moved the chairs back to the window each time. To repay his mother he doubled up his ' fist and struck her a number of times, even in the face, and she was treated that way all day. It took some one to watch the child all the time. This is not an unusual case, yet there are some child— ren that are perfect little ladies and gentlemen. As I was out calling In a neighboring village I was very much ‘) 9 THE HOUSEHOLD. pleased with avery bright girl about six years old. She came to the door to admit me, invited me in and placed a chair for me, and then said: “Lady, please ex- cuse me, and I will call mamma,” and she wasjust as lady—like all the time Iwas there. But Ihave seen other children, the same age, and even older, who would walk into the room and go right up in front of callers, acting as though they wished to see how long they could stare at them. If you notice such children you may expect to have your chain or any other attractive article handled until you can find some excuse to get rid of them. In doing this you must be very careful not to offend their mother, for she is more sensitive you will find than better behaved children’s mothers are. I dearly love children, and all I become acquaint- ed with seem to return the affection, but if mothers could only see the faults in their own children, we would see many better behaved ones; and to see better manners in children is the wish of HONOR GLINl‘. ,.___.,._..--. -___. THE NEW ORLEANS EXPOSI- TION. anron. A lady writes us from Muir, saying she would like a few hints as to what would be necessary and suitable in wearing ap- parel for a trip to New Orleans. The climate of New Orleans, in winter we are told by a gentleman whohas spent some time there, is very much like our early summer or fall weather. Frosts are infrequent, but sometimes the winds are chilly and unpleasant. Their coolest weather is in January and February. We think those who propose to visit the Exposition will be safe in pro- viding themselves with such clothing as would be comfortable in our or— dinary late May or early September weather. For a visit of two, or even three weeks, two good dresses will be sufiicient. One should be a nice silk, black by preference, with some pretty laces and ribbons as adjuncts for church and evening wear; the other a suit of some woolen material, mun—because you never can tell where or when a worn dress will give out—which may be made of summer camel’s hair, light weight tricot, Cheviot, or cashmere; drap d’ alma is excellent for this purpose as it does not wrinkle when crushed, but we believe this goods is to be found only in black. Surah silk makes a handsome and ser- viceable traveling costume, not expen- sive. A tailor made suit is more stylish and suitable than any other, for the traveling dress will be the street suit at the journey’s end. A light wrap, perhaps, one of the pretty cloth mantles so popular last fall, is necessary, also a shawl for comfort. One hat or bonnet will answer every purpose. as any milliner can so trim it that a cluster of tips or fancy wings can be added if one wishes a more dressy chapeau. Most ladies prefer not to disrobe in a sleeping car; many loosen their clothing and slip on a flannel or cashmere dressing sack. Others provide themselves with a neglige or dressing gown. to be worn instead of or over the robe de unit. The latter is preferable, as permitting more comfort, and in case of accident one is not so helpless; it is also desirable to put on in one’s room while resting. We think cotton underwear, or the light-weight Merino “gauze” will be most comfortable for the sesson” down South.” One word of caution. If you wish to enjoy the Ex- position, do not start off with apair of new boots to break in. Let the feet be comfortable if you mean to have a good time in sightseeing. Rubbers, water- proof and umbrella are essentials one will not forget. No white skirts, they are a nuisance on a journey. Another correspondent asks for any in- formation we can give in respect to rail- road rates, and hotel prices at New Orleans. No “ excursion rates ” have as yet been published, but rates at present are about 25 the round trip, with' the probability that when the Exposition is fairly opened and competition becomes active, they will be lowered to $18 or $20. These prices of course do not include sleepers. Hotel rates are higher than at the North. First class hotels charge from $4 to $6 per day, others from $3 to $4. The most economical plan is to go to a hotel run “ on the European plan,” where you pay a dollar a day for your room, and take your meals where you please. Meals at restaurants can be had at from fifty to seventy-five cents each, and in this way the expenses are considerably reduced. -—-———¢o§————-— WHY GIRLS NEED WOMANLY SYMPATHY. After a summer devoted to butter and bread making, learning how to color and make rag carpets, settling the question of greens, how to make the children’s clothes, giving the schools a going over, and having come to the end of the politi- cal campaign, it would seem as though now we had learned what to eat and how to cook it, the children off to school and things in general cleared up. woman kind might sit down aminute and stay “sot,” but Beatrix says no. She knows that nothing stands still; if we are not growing in grace, we are in something else. That fact was forcibly presented to me lately as I was going down the main street in our little town. I heard some one laugh so loudly that I looked around to see a pretty, fair-haired girl, whose face was familiar to me, walking with a young man, and I asked some one who she was. When my friend told me, I said “ That child! she is not much past a baby, " for it seemed such a little while since she sat on the hay mow with me, one lovely June day, and played with our three white puppies. I can’thelp sighing at the flood of thoughts that come over me. I know her father is a bad man, she an only child, and her mother a careless, shallow woman, one who thinks “it will be all right” and trusts to luck. Finally I realize that my friend has been talking to me, and I have heard nothing except “ She’s quite a young lady—the prettiest girl in town, and she has more beaux than any other girl out.” After much disputing—because I said she was only a child fifteen years old, and my friend in- sisted that she was a young lady and was sixteen—I give it up, and go back to wondering if there is no way in which to keep the childrenlittle, and sweet in their innocence and ignorance. . Even those mothers who are watching and guarding and teaching their chil- dren, keeping them at work, remember ing that “Satan finds mischief for idle hands,” even these are suddenly awakenn ed to find their 'children become what some call worldly wise, and the revela 'tion brings an added perplexity and care to the tired mothers, and they think. “ What can I do now.” If human nature would be satisfied to know only what is right for it, but in some mysterious way-— by the atmosphere I believe—there comes with the little girls’. and boys’ growth, that dangerous wisdom and rude actions that strike terror to every good mother’s heart, because she knows somewhere there are breakers ahead. Evil influen- ces are crowding and jostling with the pure mother’s teaching. Every day peo- ple are appalled with the knowledge that “another young person has gone to the bad," quite as often where the training and principles are good, and each mother instinctively shivers and thinks “Will mine be next?” Perhaps they will. In this life no one is entirely safe unless they are deaf, dumb and blind, and are kept chained up. I notice that those who are doing the mischief—laying the founda- tion for some one’s ruin, and some one’s broken heart, are much more friendly and willing to reach out the hand of fellow— ship to some lonesome, friendless, per- haps motherless girl, than are the better class of society. There is so much to do, so very much. Some mothers have child- ren and much necessary work, some have no children, but all are too busy with their own affairs to feel interested outside of their family circle. They are not their brother’s keeper, and so they are not required to remember the young girls, or to think how they were once young and flill of giggle, but take it for granted that this is a Christian land, and all have the same advantages for keeping straight, even though they have no brother, or sister, or worse than all, no mother, for a friend. I am a Christian myself, and a girl, and therefore know of what I am talking. There is something wrong in a Chris tianity which expends all its love in the home circle, making those outside feel that they are among but not of them. Why is there not more fellow feeling in; this world? Why should not woman- hood be a bond between young girls and older women? Why are there so very few women who can make and keep friends with girls, who are anxious to do them good before they are really called upon! How many of you know whether some young girl, who has no mother, or per- haps has amother but no companions, is not longing for a friend, some one to THE HOUSEHOLD. 3 like her, and help her over the doubtful places? It’s no good to preach salvation with gloves on and a ten foot pole. Many a girl is made a pure, noble woman by the friendship of some unseen person ' I am sure all angels do not have wings. Z the most will answer, unless she hasa natural taste for it. It is hard for a girl to go through life thinking that she might have made her mark, if she had only been given the chances that other girls had. PANSY. God sends them to us often, and wet __ "' know them by the touch of awarm hand, . 3" NlTTED coggglgRPANE PAT- and a smile, or perhaps only apiece of: folded paper, saying that some one has; thought of us, and is interested in our! welfare. I know girls get tired of trying to be good, and having it just taken for Aunt Nell, of Plainwell, furnishes for Stranger, who wished a pattern for a knitted counterpane, directions for a granted, when perhaps being good is taking their whole might. It is such a little thing, this feeling a cordial interest in other sinners, but I never noticed how little there is of it till I became acquaint- ed with a woman, so sweet and good that it is an honor to be her friend; then I thought of it, seen any one else who was so kind to everyone, to those of her own age as a matter of course, but to the girls particu larly, because they are girls. God bless such women; they do a work that theology cannot, and that ministers do not, be cause every girl wants to copy them. Somehow even the most careless girl is pleased by their notice, and the earnest feel that a woman is a safer friend than some one of their own age, even if well- meaning. PHILLIs. ADOPTING CHILDREN. Of course I, like every one else, have a theory; and I am going to force myself into the Household circle for the purpose ‘of airing it. When I see so many childless homes and homeless children, it makes me feel as though the one ought to fill the want of the other. One says, oh! you never know how they will turn out. That is true, but do our own children always (come up to our' expectations, and do you not suppose a good many go to the bad for the want of a home? I think a great deal of the crime in the world might be lessened by providing good homes for the children that “just grow.” The children are here and some one ought to care for them, why not you orI as well as our neighbor? It seems as though life with a little sorrow in it from well doing, would be better, in the sight of God at least, than an empty life. I should think mothers who lose their own children would be glad to fill their places. They certainly can’t complain of the extra work, for it seems as though they never would mind that if they only had their darling back. It is the empty hands and heart that ache. When we hear of a family of children being left motherless we feel so sorry, but never think for a a moment that we might take one. Per- haps this is enough on this subject to set others to thinking. I liked Beatrix’s notes on music very much, and would suggest that if your daughter feels she can’t be happy without a piano. let her take a few lessons before you purchase an instrument, provided she can practice at a friend's, just for the sake of satisfying her; and I think a term at how I had never style named “Raised Leaf,” which we judge to have been clipped from the N. Y. Tribune. Directions for leggings and mittens are also furnished us by Aunt Nell, which we shall try to find room for in future issues. She says: “If Stranger thinks of knitting a bed spread, I would advise her to send for the New Lamb Knitter. I am much inter- ested in the Household, and would be sorry to lose it, so I will try and do some- thing to help keep it up.” The pattern, which is knit in squares, is as follows: Cast on one stitch. 1st row: Over, knit 1. 2d row: Over, knit 2. 3d row: Over, knit 1, over, knit 1, over, knit 1. 4th row: Over, knit 1, purl 3, knit 2. 5th row: Over, knit 3, over, knit 1, over, knit 3. 6th row: Over, knit 2, purl 5, knit 3. 7th row: Over, knit 5, over, knit 1, over, knit 5. 8th row: Over, knit 3, purl 7, knit 4. 9th row: Over, knit 7, over, knit 1, over, knit 7. 10th row: Over, knit 4, purl 9, knit 5. 11th row: Over, knit 9, over, knit 1, over, knit 9. 12th row: Over, knit 5, purl 11, knit 6. 13th row: Over, knit 11, over, knit 1, over, knit 11. 14th row: Over, knit 6. purl 13, knit 7. 15th row: Over, knit 13, over, knit 1, over, knit 13. 16th row: Over, knit 7, purl 15, knit 8. 17th row: Over, knit 15, over, knit 1, over, knit 15. 18th row: Over, knit 8, purl 17, knit 9. 19th row: Over, knit 9, narrow (by knitting 2 together,) knit 13, slip I, knit 1 and throw the slipped stitch over, knit 9. 20th row: Over, knit 9. purl 15, knit 10. 21st row: Over, knit 10, narrow, knit 11, slip 1, knit 1 and throw slipped stitch over. knit 10. . 22d row: Over, knit 10, purl 13, knit 11. 23d row: Over, knit 11, narrow. knit 9, slip 1, knit 1 and throw slipped stitch over, knit 11. 1 24th row: Over, knit 11, purl 11, knit 2 25th row: Over, knit 12, narrow, knit 7, slip I, knit 1 and throw slipped stitch over, knit 12. 326th row: Over, knit 12, purl 9, knit 1 . 27th row: Over, knit 13, narrow, knit 5, slip I, knit 1 and throw slipped stitch over, knit 13. 1 28th row: Over, knit 13, purl 7, knit 4 29th row: Over, knit 14, narrow, knit 3, slip 1, knit 1 and throw slipped stitch over, knit 14. 30th row: Over, knit 14, purl 5, knit 15. 3lst row: Over, knit 15, narrow, knit 1, slip 1, knit 1 and throw slipped stitch over, knit 15. 32d row: Over, knit 15, purl 3, knit 16. 1 33d row: Over, knit 17, narrow, knit 6. 1 34th row: Over, knit 16, purl 2, knit 7. 1735th row: Over, knit 17, narrow, knit Purl throughout. 36th row: 37th and 38th rows: Narrow, rest plain. 39th row, Narr-»w. rest purl. Continue as from 37th, two plain rows and one purl—always remembering to narrow at the beginning of each row—till there is only one stitch left. Cast 0111., This completes one square, In arranging the pattern four leaves should be brought to one point, and the squares should be sewn together as flatly as possible without dragging. The join- ing of the larger squares thus formed re- quires no special direction. ——-—_“.——- HOME-MADE CANDIES FOR CHRISTMAS. The children can hardly be convinced that Christmas is Christmas unless they are treated to candies. Yet a judicious mot-her, knowing how candy nowadays is adulterated with terra alba (white earth) and other indigestible materials, and that the beautiful colors which are so attractive to the eye are unhealthy if not absolutely poisonous, will hesuate about encouraging its very free consump- tion. Children love sweets, and when pure, candy is not unwholesome but sup- pliesacraving of growth. We know a lady who purchases cut-loaf sugar instead of candy 'for her children, and as much as possible discourages them from buying candy by recommending dates, figs and raisins as a treat. The Household Editor admits the possession of a “sweet tooth," but finds the adulterated stufl sold by our confectioners produces headache and nau- sea. We therefore recommend that the mothers or elder sisters expend the money intended for candy in sugar, and make their own confections. Somewhere we have read of an old lady whose ingenuity was sufficient to “make seven kinds of cake out of one dough.” This process seems duplicated in the following, which we clip from the Kansas Farmer, and commend as a good guide: “ Whites of two eggs placed in a tum- bler; measure with your finger how high it comes up in the glass, pour out in a large bowl, pour in the tumbler as much water as will equal the amount of egg, mix them and beat well; add a dessert spoonfulof vanilla, and about two pounds of confectioner’s sugar, if you can get it (it has the appearance of flour) or powder- ed sugar well sifted; beat well and the foundation of candy is ready. Take half a pound of dates, remove stones, put in a piece of candy dough, roll each in granu- lated sugar. Split one-half pound of figs, and place a layer of dough on a board, sprinkle well with powdered sugar to prevent its adhering, and then a layer of figs, again a layer of dough, cut in squares and that kind is ready. Nuts of any kind canbe made up into the candy; put almonds inside and then roll in coarse sugar. Set each out in a cool place to harden. For chocolate creams, roll any amount of balls from the dough, and when they are hardened dip with a fork into the chocolate melted on the stove; be careful not to allow it to boil; use Baker's chocolate. Cocoanut can be made by rolling out another portion of the dough on the board, sprinkle cocoanut over it and roll a few times with the roll- er, then cut in squares. A mixture of cocoanut and particles of nuts chopped fine makes a very delicious candy. The English walnut makes a handsome ad- dition if you are to give boxes of this candy as presents to friends. Split the walnuts, shape some of the dough into round, fiat balls, and place a half on each side, press firmly. This candy is now I INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE , K 2 . .TI—I'E HOUSEHOLD. pleased with avery bright girl about six years old. She came to the door to admit me, invited me in and placed a chair for me, and then said: “Lady, please ex- cuse me, and I will call mamma,” and she was just as lady-like all the time Iwas there. But Ihave seen other children, the same age, and even older, who would walk into the room and go right‘ up in front of callers, acting as though they wished to see how long they could stare at them. If you notice such children you may expect to have your chain or any other attractive article handled until you can find some excuse to get rid of them. In doing this you must be very careful not to offend their mother, for she is more sensitive you will find than better behaved children’s mothers are. I dearly love children, and all I become acquaint~ ed with seem to return the aflection, but if mothers could only see the faults in their own children, we would see many better behaved ones; and to see better manners in children is the wish of HONOR GLINI‘. an'rox . THE NEW ORLEANS EXPOSI- TION. A lady writes us from Muir. saying she would like a few hints as to what would be necessary and suitable in wearing ap- parel for a trip to New Orleans. The climate of New Orleans, in winter we are told by a gentleman whohas spent some time there, is very much like our «early summer or fall weather. Frosts are infrequent, but sometimes the winds are ~ chilly and unpleasant. Their coolest weather is in January and February. We think those who propose to visit the Exposition will be safe in pro- viding themselves with such clothing as would be comfortable in our or« dinary late May or early September weather. For a visit of two, or even three weeks, two good dresses will be sufficient. One should be a nice silk, black by preference, With some pretty laces and ribbons as adjuncts for church and evening wear; the other a suit of some woolen material, neat—because you never can tell where or when a worn dress will give out—which may be made of summer camel’s hair, light weight tricot, cheviot, or cashmere; drap d’ alma , is excellent for this purpose as it does not wrinkle when crushed, but we believe this goods is to be found only in black. Surah silk makes a handsome and ser- viceable traveling costume, not expen- sive. A tailor made suit is more stylish and suitable than any other, for the traveling dress will be the street suit at the journey’s end. A light wrap, perhaps, one of the pretty cloth mantles so popular last fall, is necessary, also a shawl for comfort. One hat or ‘ bonnet will answer every purpose, as any milliner can so trim it that a cluster of tips or fancy wings can be added if one wishes a more dressy chapeau. Most ladies prefer not to disrobe in a sleeping car; many loosen their clothing ‘ and slip on a flannel or cashmere dressing sack. Others provide themselves with a neglige or dressing gown. to be worn instead of or over the robe do wait. The latter is preferable, as permitting more comfort, and in case of accident one is not so helpless; it is also desirable to put on in one’s room while resting. We think cotton underwear, or the light-weight Merino “gauze” will be most comfortable for the season“ down South.” One word of caution. If you wish to enjoy the Ex- position, do not start ofi with apair of new boots to break in“ Let the feet. be comfortable if you mean to have a good time in sightseeing. Rubbers, water- proof and umbrella are essentials one will not forget. No white skirts, they are a nuisance on a journey. Another correspondent asks for any in- formation we can give in respect to rail- road rates, and hotel prices at New Orleans. No “ excursion rates ” have as yet been published, but rates at present are about $25 the round trip, with' the probability that when the Exposition is fairly opened and competition becomes active, they will be lowered to $18 or $20. These prices of course do not include sleepers. Hotel rates are higher than at the North. First class hotels charge from $4 to $6 per day, others from $3 to $4. The most economical plan is to go to a hotel run “on the European plan,” where you pay a dollar a day for your room, and take your meals where you please. Meals at restaurants can be had at from fifty to seventy-five cents each, and in this way the expenses are considerably reduced. -————oe.————- WHY GIRLS NEED WOMANLY SYMPATHY. After a summer devoted to butter and, bread making, learning how to color and make rag carpets, settling the question of greens, how to make the children’s clothes, giving the schools a going over, and having come to the end of the politi- cal campaign, it would seem as though now we had learned what to eat and how to cook it, the Children oil? to school and things in general cleared up, woman kind might sit down a minute and stay “sot,” but Beatrix says no. She knows that nothing stands still; if we are not growing in grace, we are in something- else. That fact was forcibly presented to me lately as I was going down the main street in our little town. I heard some one laugh so loudly that I looked around to see a pretty, fair-haired girl, whose face was familiar to me, walking with a young man, and'I asked some one who she was. When my friend told me, I said “ That child! she is not much past a baby,” for it seemed such a little while since she sat on the hay mow with me, one lovely June day, and played with our three white puppies. I can't help sighing at'the flood of thoughts that come over me. I know her father is a bad man, she an only child, and her mother a careless, shallow woman, one who thinks ‘° it will be all right ” and trusts to luck. Finally I realize that my friend has been talking to me, and I have heard nothing except "‘She’s quite a young lady—the prettiest girl in town, and she has more beaux than any other girl out.” After much disputing—because I said she was only a ‘ child fifteen years old, and my friend in- sisted that she was a young lady and was sixteen—I give it up, and go back to wondering if there is no way in which to keep the children little, and sweet in their innocence and ignorance. ' Even those mothers who are watching and guarding and teaching their chil- dren, keeping them at work, remember- ing that “Satan finds mischief for idle hands,” even these are suddenly awaken- ed to find their children become what some call worldly wise, and the revela ’tion brings an added perplexity and care to the tired mothers, and they think, “ What can I do now.” If human nature would be satisfied to know only what is right for it, but in some mysterious way—— by the atmosphere I believe—there comes with the little girls’. and boys’ growth, that dangerous wisdom and rude actions that strike terror to every good mother’s heart, because she knows somewhere there are breakers ahead. Evil influen— ces are crowding and jostling with the pure mother’s teaching. Every day peo- ple are appalled with the knowledge that “another young person has gone to the bad," quite as often where the training and principles are good, and each mother instinctively shivers and thinks “ Will mine be next?” Perhaps they will. In this life no one is entirely safe unless they are deaf, dumb and blind, and are kept chained up. I notice that those who are doing the mischief—laying the founda- tion for some one’s ruin, and some one’s broken heart, are much more friendly and willing to reach out the hand of fellow- ship to some lonesome, friendless, per- haps motherless girl, than are the better class of society. There is so much to do, so very much. Some mothers have child- ren and much necessary work, some have no children, but all are too busy with their own affairs to feel interested, outside of their family circle. They are not their brother’s keeper, and so they are not required to remember the young girls, or to think how they were once young and fill of giggle, but take it for granted that this is a Christian land, and all have the same advantages for keeping straight, even though they have no brother, or sister, or worse than all, no mother. for a friend. I am a Christian myself, and a girl, and therefore know of what I am talking. There is something wrong in a Chris tianity which expends all its love in the home circle, making those outside feel that they are among but not of them. Why is there not more fellow feeling in. this world? Why should not woman- hood be a bond between young girls and older women? Why are there so very few women who can make and keep friends with girls, who are anxious to do them good before they are really called upon? How many of you know whether some young girl, who has no mother, or per- haps has a mother but no companions, is not longing for a friend, some one to . murder '1 ,. 3‘, J, ..‘). ’ larly, because they are girls. THE HOUSEHOLD. 3 'like her, and help her over the doubtful places? It’s no good to preach salvation with gloves on and a ten foot pole. Many a girl is made a pure, noble woman by the friendship of some unseen person. ' I am sure all angels do not have wings. God sends them to us often, and we know them by the touch of awarm hand, and a smile, or perhaps only apiece of folded paper, saying that some one has thought of us, and is interested in our welfare. I know girls get tired of trying to be good, and having it just taken for granted, when perhaps being good is taking their Whole might. It is such a little thing, this feeling a cordial interest in other sinners, but I never noticed how little there is of it till I became acquaint- ed with a woman, so sweet and good that it is an honor to be herfriend; then I thought of it, how I had never seen any one else who was so kind to everyone, to those of her own age as a matter of course, but to the girls particu» God bless such women; they do a work that theology cannot, and that ministers do not, be- cause every girl wants to copy them. Somehow even the most careless girl is pleased by their notice, and the earnest feel that a woman is a safer friend than some one of their own age, even if well- meaning. Pmms. ADOPTING CHILDREN. Of course I, like every one else, have a theory; and I am going to force myself into the Household circle for the purpose -of airing it. When I see so many childless homes and homeless children, it makes me feel as though the one ought to fill the want of the other. One says, oh! you never know how they will turn out. That is true, but do our own children always come up to our expectations, and do you not suppose a good many go to the bad for the want of a home? I think a great deal of the crime in the world might be lessened by providing good homes for the children that “just grow.” The children are here and some one ought to care for them, why not you or I as well as our neighbor? It seems as though life with a little sorrow in it from well doing, would be better, in the sight of God at least, than an empty life. I should think mothers who lose their own children would be glad to fill their places. They certainly can't complain of the extra work. for It seems as though they never would mind that if they only had their darling back. his the empty hands and heart that ache. When we hearof a family of children being left motherless we feel so sorry, but never think for a a moment that we might take one. Per- haps this is enough on this subject to set others to thinking. I liked Beatrix’s notes on music very much, and would suggest that if your daughter feels she can’t be happy without a piano. let her take a few lessons before you purchase an instrument, provided she T. can practice at a friend’ , just for the sake .. of satisfying her; and I think a term at the most will answer, unless she has a natural taste for it. It is hard for a girl'to go through life thinking that she might have made her mark, if she had only been given the chances that other girls had. _—_§..______ KNITTED ' COUNTERPANE TEEN. PANSY. PAT- Aunt Nell, of Plainwell, furnishes for Stranger, who Wished a pattern for a knitted counterpane, directions for a style named “Raised Leaf,” which we judge to have been clipped from the N. Y. Tribune. Directions for leggings and mittens are also furnished us by Aunt Nell, which we shall try to find room for in future issues. She says: “If Stranger thinks of knitting a bed spread, I would advise her to send for the New Lamb Knitter. I am much inter- ested in the Household, and would be sorry to lose it, so I will try and do some- thing to help keep it up.” The pattern, which is knit in squares. is as follows: Cast on one stitch. 1st row: Over, knit 1. 2d row: Over, knit 2. . 3d row: Over, knit 1, over, knit 1, over, knit 1. 4th row: Over, knit 1, purl 3, knit 2. 5th row: Over, knit 3, over, knit 1, over, knit 3. 6th row: Over, knit 2, purl 5, knit 3. 7th row: Over, knit 5, over, knit 1, over, knit 5. 8th row: Over, knit 3, purl 7, knit 4. 9th row: Over, knit 7, over, knit 1, over, knit 7. 10th row: Over, knit 4, purl 9, knit 5. 11th row: Over, knit 9, over, knit 1, over, knit 9. 12th row: Over, knit 5, purl 11, knit 6. 13th row: Over, knit 11, over, knit 1, over, knit 11. 14th row: Over, knit 6. purl 13, knit 7. 15th row: Over, knit 13, over, knit 1, over, knit 13. 16th row: Over, knit 7, purl 15, knit 8. 17th row: Over, knit 15, over, knit 1. over, knit 15. 18th row: Over, knit 8, purl 17, knit 9. 19th row: Over, knit 9, narrow (by knitting 2 together,) knit 13, slip 1, knit 1 and throw the slipped stitch over, knit 9. 20th row: Over, knit 9. purl 15, knit 10. 21st row: Over, knit 10, narrow, knit 11, slip 1, knit 1 and throw slipped stitch over, knit 10. . 22d row: Over, knit 10, purl 13, knit 11. 23d row: Over, knit 11, narrow. knit 9, slip 1, knit 1 and throw 'slipped stitch over, knit 11. 1224th row: Over, knit 11, purl 11, knit 25th row: Over, knit 12, narrow, knit 7, slip 1, knit 1 and throw slipped stitch over, knit 12. 1326th row: Over, knit 12, purl 9, knit 27th row: Over, knit 13, narrow, knit 5, slip 1, knit 1 and throw slipped stitch over, knit 13. 1428th row: Over, knit 13, purl 7, knit 29th row: Over, knit 14, narrow, knit 3, slip 1, knit 1 and throw slipped stitch over, knit 14. 30th row: Over, knit 14, purl 5, knit 15. 31st row: Over, knit 15, narrow, knit 1, slip 1, knit 1 and throw slipped stitch over, knit 15. 32d row: Over, knit 15, purl 3, knit 16. 33d row: Over, knit 17, narrow, knit 6. 1 34th row: Over, knit 16, purl 2, knit 7 35th row: Over, knit 17, narrow, knit 7. 36th row: Purl throughout. 37th and 38th rows: Narrow, rest plain. 39th row, Narruw. rest purl. Continue as from 37th, two plain rows and one purl—a1 ways remembering to narrow at the beginning of each row—till there is only one stitch left. Cast offs This completes one square. In arranging the pattern four leaves should be brought to one point, and the squares should be sewn together as flatly as possible without dragging. The join- ing of the larger squares thus formed re- quires no special direction. “Q... HOME-MADE CANDIES FOR CHRISTMAS. The children can hardly be convinced that Christmas is Christmas unless they are treated to candies. Yet a judicious mother, knowing how candy nowadays is adulterated with terra alba (white earth) and other indigestible materials, and that the beautiful colors which are so attractive to the eye are unhealthy if not absolutely poisonous, will hesitate about encouraging its very free consump- tion. Children love sweets, and when pur'e, candy is not unwholesome but sup- plies a craving of growth. We know a lady who purchases cut-loaf sugar instead of candy 'for her children, and as much as possible discourages them from buying candy by recommending dates, figs and raisins as a treat. The Household Editor admits the possession of a “sweet tooth," but finds the adulterated stuff sold by our confectioners produces headache and nau- sea. We therefore recommend that the mothers or elder sisters expend the money intended for candy in sugar, and make their own confections. Somewhere we have read of an old lady whose ingenuity was sufiicient to “make seven kinds of cake out of one dough.” This process seems duplicated in the following, which we clip from the Kansas Farmer, and commend as a good guide: “ Whites of two eggs placed in a tum- bler; measure with your finger how high it comes up in the glass, pour out in a large bowl, pour in the tumbler as much water as will equal the amount of egg, mix them and beat well; add a dessert spoonful of vanilla, and about two pounds of confectioner’s sugar, if you can get it (it has the appearance of flour) or powder- ed sugar well sifted; beat well and the foun ation of candy is ready. Take half a pound of dates, remove stones, put in a piece of candy dough, roll each in granu. lated sugar. - Split one-half pound of figs, and place a layer of dough on a board, sprinkle well with powdered sugar to prevent its adhering, and then a layer of figs, again a layer of dough, cut in squares and that kind is ready. Nuts of any kind can be made up into the candy; put almonds inside and then roll in coarse sugar. Set each out in a cool place to harden. For chocolate creams, roll any amount of balls from the dough, and when they are hardened dip with a fork into the chocolate melted on the stove; be careful not to allow it to boil; use Baker's chocolate. Cocoanut can be made by rolling out another portion of the dough on the board, sprinkle cocoanut over it and roll a few times with the roll: er, then cut in squares. A mixture of cocoanut and particles of nuts chopped fine makes a very delicious candy. The English walnut makes a handsome ad- dition if you are to give boxes of this candy as presents to friends. Split the walnuts, shape some of the dough into round, flat balls, and lace a half on each his candy is now‘ I side, press firmly. 4. THE HOUSEHOLD. being made in society circles a good deal, as there is no cooking to be done and is very easy and clean work. A dollar’s worth of all the ingredients will make many pounds of candy.” —-———¢o.———— WALL DECORATIONS. A correspondent says her daughter wishes to know how to arrange a bunch of peacock feathers for a wall ornament. We have seen them sewed upon a fan- shaped piece of pasteboard, the joining at the handle concealed under a bow of ribbon, and fastened to the wall. But perhaps the prettiest ornament of the kind we have seen was the simplest. A few fine feat-hers were selected, the stems gilded with gold paint. and then arranged at a graceful angle over a little bracket. A bow of ribbon was fastened where the stems crossed. A few very long ones ar- ranged over a door in this fashion, might, we think, make a very showy and at- tractive decoration, especially if the wall paper was of a color adapted to show them ofi. Most people make the mistake of massing too many In one bunch for really fine efiect. They go on the principle “ If a little is good a good deal is better,” which is seldom safe doctrine. At Mabley’s Bazar we saw not long ago every pretty hand screen made of pea- cock’s plumage. The “ eyes” of the feathers were glued to a circular founda- tion, both sides being covered. One row only was used; then some of the long barbs from the stems were curled a little, and put on to fill in around the circle. The center was of fowls’ feathers colored bright red, and the wooden handle was gilded with the convenient gold paint. It was a pretty and convenient toy, and any deft—fingered girl can duplicate it if she has the feathers, we are quite certain. And now, will that daughter please tell how the tidy was made which the mother interrupted her writing to inspect? We want to hear from our girls. about the pretty things they are making for Christ- mas, and other matters of interest to them. The girls, who very soon will be our women, are part Of the household, and ought to be better represented in our FABMER Household. _____..,_ GLYCERINE OINTMENT. The Prairie Farmer gives a recipe for ' a glycerine ointment, which it says is excellent for rough or chapped hands, for softening scabs, burns or sores, corns or callouses. The directions are as follows: Take two ounces of oil of almonds, half an ounce of spermaceti, and a drachm (or oneeighth of an ounce) of white wax and gently warm them together in any earth- en vessel, or even in a tin cup. Heat only enough to have the spermaceti and wax dissolved; making it too hot injures the quality. As soon as melted, remove from the fire, and stir in two ounces of good glycerine, continuing the stirring until cool, when it should be of the con- sistency of good lard, or even stiffer. For hot weather a larger proportion of wax may be used. When about cold stir in a drop or two, or more, of oil of roses. which will give it a very pleasant odor. Half the above quantities may be used if for a single person or family. Keep it in well corked vials; those with necks large enough to admit the finger are most con- venient for use, as well as for getting it into them. If these are kept well corked, the ointment will remain good and sweet for six months to a year. If much ex- posed, it will become a little rancid after a time, especially in hot weather, when it is less agreeable, though still good to use. —-——-¢eo——— INFORMATION WANTED. Will some of the readers of the House— hold tell me through its columns if they use the sewing machine advertised by the FARMER and how they like it? Is it a new Singer or is it the old Singer machine im~ proved? I have never seen one. YPSILANTI. [Mrs. T. Cross, and Mrs. R. E. Gorton, of Ypsilanti, have sewing machines order- ed through the FARMER. We presume our correspondent can examine the ma- chine by calling on either of these ladies. The machine furnished by the FARMER is what is called the Family Singer Machine, and its parts are interchangeable with those of the Singer sold by agents. It has the latest improvements and attachments, and has given perfect satisfaction wher- ever sold. Of the many sold only one has been complained of, and in this in- stance it was found on investigation that the point of the needle had broken off, and the force employed to put a pointless needle through several thicknesses of cloth made the machine run very hard. A new needle being set, the machine was all right.——HousEHOLD En] ._——.....———— A FEW QUESTIONS. Would it not be a good plan to have the address of the Household Editor on every copy of the Household? I Would like to ask E. M. A., of Gen- terville, how the preparation for moth is to be used. I do not find it necessary to at once put all articles made of baking powder into the oven, as I have made enough batter for four loaves of layer cake at once, and the last one seemed as nice as the first. I make my own baking powder, which may make a difference. I like the House- hold very much, hope it may continue to flourish. LALLIE. TECUMSEH. [Any communication addressed to the Household Editor, care of the MICHIGAN FARMER, reaches her safely and prompt- ly.] Is there a more unpleasant and dis- agreeable smell than that of cabbage throughout the house, caused by prepar- ing a dinner of the Austrian Empress, favorite vegetable? “N0 pent up Utica confines” its smell, closed doors are no barriers, the whole house smells like a sauer kraut factory, and the odor only can be got rid of by continued and thorough ventilation. We once knew a young lady who while looking for a boarding place was directed to a place which promised to be everything she desired. But the day she called to make arrangements the whole house was redolent of cabbage and the fastidious miss lingered only long enough to say she had decided not to take board there, and continued her search for a place where the smell of din- ner did not permeate the house at 4 P. M. ————oeo—-- charcoal in the water used for cooking will greatly lessen, if not entirely banish the objectionable smell, and this is worth remembering. g; Contributed Recipes. Faun Cums—One egg, one and one-half cups of sugar, one cup sour cream, two cups buttermilk, three even teaspoonfuls soda,” one teaspoonful cloves, 3. little, salt. Mix long They are splendid. LALLII. Tncmlsnn. WnnING RECIPE—Soak the clothes in eold water; put three pails of water in the boiler. When the water is hot put one tablespoonful . of, kerosene Oil into one quart of soap, and put ‘ it in the boiler. Then put in the clothes, and let the. boil ten or fifteen minutes; take them out into lukewarm water, rub them, rinse, and hang out. LEONE. BIG Baavnn. BLEACHINGrA bleaching fluid commended by a good housekeeper, as saving Inueh labor, and also as whitening the clothes without making them tender. is made as follows: Put one pound of line into a pailful of boiling wa- ter. Stir it up well and let stand till the water is perfectly clear. Dissolve two pounds of sal soda in two gallons of hot water. Strain the lime water into the soda water, stir, and turn fluid to three pailfuls of water, in the boiling suds. Wring the clothes out of the boiling suds, and they do not need “sudsifig,” but only to be put through a rinsing water. It is not necessary to use the bleaching fluid every week. Mas. S. DETROIT. IF YOU WANT Profitable Employment SEND AT ONCE TO THE NEW lAMB KNITTEH 80., For Full Information. An ordinary operator can earn from one to three dollars per day in any community in the Northern States on our New Lamb Knitter. 100 Varieties of Fabric on Same Machine. You can wholly finish twelve pairs ladies’ full- shaped stockings or twenty pairs socks or mittens in a day! Skilled Operators can double this pro- duction. Capacity and range of work double that of the old Lamb knitting machine. Address The New Lamb Knitter (30., 117 and 119 Main St., west, JACKSON, Mrcn, Either red pepper pods or a few pieces of“ into jugs or bottles. Use one teacupful of the- THE BEST THING KNOWN FOR Washingand Ileachisg In Hard or Soft. Hot or-Cold Watero AVES LABOR, Eligibi- ami SOAP AMAZ- NGLY, and. gives universal satisfaction, NC famil; , rich or poor, should be Without 1t. .1911 designed to mislead, PEA LINE is the ' :ZLY SAFE labor—saying compound, and . ways bears the above symbol, and name of JAMES PYLE. NEW YORK. . :31 by all Grocers. BEWARE of imitation! .