Page:Christian Science War Time Activities.djvu/133

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CAMP WELFARE COMMITTEE

of beaver-board, painted a yellow ivory color, with the wood of a lighter shade, giving an agreeable effect of warmth and light. A large stone fireplace is one of the attractive features of the reception room. Four double French doors open on to the piazza through which the men can enjoy a view of the Palisades, as they sit at service, or in quiet thought, reminding many of the Psalmist's words, ‘I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.’

"The furnishings consist of individual writing desks stained mahogany color, large tables, davenports and chairs of wicker. A piano was loaned by two Christian Scientists, and it is an inspiring sight to see our men in uniform standing around it singing hymns after the evening service.

"One of the most interesting features connected with the building, which occasioned much favorable comment, was the installation of twelve drinking fountains of iced water in a stone wall along the sidewalk in front of the building. There is a large tank inside this wall containing twelve coils of pipe fifty feet each in length, through which the water flows, emerging upon the surface from faucets known as bubblers, upon pressure of the buttons connected with the faucets. The water in these coils is chilled by ice with which the tanks are kept supplied. In this way, twelve soldiers at a time may obtain a cool and refreshing drink.

"The way in which this method was discovered is very interesting. The idea having occurred to one of the Committee, in trying to work it out, he found that the necessary equipment for the purpose could only be secured from a firm dealing in bar fixtures. The proprietor of this firm remarked the day after receiving the order: ‘I could hardly sleep last night for thinking of your idea of using this cooling apparatus for the purpose of water fountains. It has never been used before except for beer, and with prohibition coming, I have been worried about my business and this has suggested to me a new avenue of work.’ This incident in connection with the fountains has led to their being called the ‘replacement

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