ed.

The siphon closet not only overflows, but it siphons, or draws out, the
contents of the bowl. This is replaced with clear water, which
completely shuts off the outlet pipe. Comparing the actions of the two
systems, we readily see the better cleansing power of the double
action, while the seal on the vent pipe is always evident. A good
siphon closet costs from $30 to $50, and unless we find something still
safer we would better choose it.

The low tank is preferable in many ways to the sort that is attached to
the wall near the ceiling. It is more compact, can be installed under
windows or stairways, and looks better. Besides, it is not so noisy
and operates with greater ease, with either chain or push button. The
extra cost is slight.

HOT WATER AND HOW TO GET IT

We have named the essentials for use in a bathroom. But there are
other features that add much to its convenience and attractiveness.
Some of these need not be purchased at once; in fact, it is better
here, as elsewhere in the house, to let many things wait upon a
demonstration of their need.

A bathroom without plenty of hot water accessible is not, as we have
previously hinted, likely to become a popular resort. When the wash
boiler and the tea kettle have to be heated on the range and brought up
in a precarious progress that threatens a scalding for fingers, feet,
and floors, to even hint the possibility of the entire household's
insisting upon a daily hot bath suggests lunacy. But if the hot-water
tank is dependent upon the furnace or other house-heating arrangement,
summer is likely to find it out of commission, with the chief element
of a good bath obtainable only with much ado. Then some special means
of heating water is required.

There are many devices, most of them using gas, and disposed to be
cantankerous late at night when all but the would-be bather have
retired. The gas heaters are placed either in connection with the
water tank in kitchen or basement, or above the tub, the water running
in coils over the heater. These arrangements are speedy and
comparatively economical. They are slightly dangerous, however; not
that they are likely to explode, but from the fact that the gas,
particularly if of a poor quality--which is usually the case--rapidly
vitiates the air of the room, and may cause fainting or even
suffocation. If the apparatus is properly adjusted, and one makes sure
of the ventilation, heating the water an