THE FAMILY RECEIPT BOOK.
THE CHOICE OF A HOUSE.
There are several important matters to be taken into consideration in making choice of a house. In the first place, take care that it is not damp. Dampness may arise from many causes, but imperfect drainage, and close contact of the floors with the ground, are the principal. When a house is damp in any part, by all means avoid it, for it may produce the most pernicious effects on the health of your family. Secondly, see that the house has a free open exposure for fresh air, and, if all other circumstances suit, prefer that which has an exposure to the south, for you will then have the beneficial influence of the sun's rays. Thirdly, ascertain if there be a plentiful supply of good water in the premises, and if there be proper means at hand for drying and bleaching clothes. Fourthly, learn whether the vents go well, and do not smoke. There are other inquiries you should also make, such as freedom from vermin, &c., but these are left to your own judgment.
Furnishings.
When about to furnish a house, take care to set out on a right principle in the selection of articles. Neatness, and a pleasing effect to the eye, require that there should be a harmony of colours, and a similarity of style in the main articles of furniture. Therefore, you must exercise a little taste and judgment in your first selections, if you wish to avoid committing a blunder which will cost you much subsequent annoyance. For example, let the tints of the carpet, of the paper or paint of the walls, and of the window curtains, be all in harmony in each room—that is, either possess a general resemblance of colour, or various colours in pleasing contrast with each other. Carpets being the most expensive articles, it is safest to buy them first, and then to let their colour lead the tone and style of hearthrugs, curtains, paper-hangings, &c. It is also an economical plan to buy carpets of the same pattern
