ask her to conform to the family breakfast hour if we know she is
unaccustomed to early hours, or is very much fatigued. In that case it is
best to say that the early breakfast is a family necessity and that she
will not be expected to appear at it, but may have her coffee and toast in
her own room or down stairs at the hour at which she wishes to rise. This,
though it may necessitate the preparation of a tray to be sent up, is
really a convenience to the hostess, who is then left free to attend to
her domestic duties. As some one has said, "It is not hospitality to ask a
guest to your rooftree and expect her to find sufficient delight in being
there and doing as you do." Very often she would be far more comfortable
at home, physically at least. Remember your object in inviting people is
to make them happy. Unless you are willing to make some sacrifices to do
this, do not invite them.

[714 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Preparing for Company.--An expected guest should always be met at the
station by some member of the family. The guest room should be in
readiness, closet and bureau drawers vacated for her use. The bed should
be freshly made up, the bedding having been properly aired. It would seem
that no one would offer a visitor a bed that has not been changed and
aired after having been slept in, yet guests, exchanging experiences,
acknowledge it has been done--let us hope through inadvertence, though it
is really inexcusable.

There should be plenty of fresh towels and water; a fresh cake of soap, a
candlestick and matches, and a waste paper basket. On the dressing-bureau
there should be a spotless spread, a pincushion well stocked with pins,
hand mirror, comb and brush. The guest will bring her own, but may need to
use these before her luggage arrives. The brush and comb should have been
washed after a previous using.

A lounge, preferably placed at the foot of the bed if there is room; a
light quilt or blanket for use upon it; an easy chair, and a clock in good
working order are desirable furnishings. Writing materials should be
provided. Some careful and painstaking hostesses include a small writing
desk, well stocked with paper, pens and ink, postage stamps, even picture
postal cards already stamped and ready to be addressed. A new magazine and
a few books, and a little basket containing thimble, needles, scissors and
several spools of cotton complete the conveniences arranged for the guest.
A potted plant, or a few f