for twenty-four hours. The closet must
be sealed up as tight as possible, every crack, crevice, and keyhole
being stuffed with newspaper to prevent the fumes from escaping, the
entering door, of course, being sealed after the fumes are started. If
one desires the sealing to be doubly sealed, newspaper strips two
inches wide and pasted together to make several thicknesses, can be
pasted over cracks in doors and windows with a gum-tragacanth solution,
prepared by soaking two tablespoons of the gum in one pint of cold
water for an hour, then placing the bowl in a pan of boiling water, and
stirring till dissolved. This is easily washed off and will not stain
or discolor the woodwork. Although there is an impression to the
contrary, clothing may be left in the closet with entire safety during
the smoking, provided it is well away from the fire. Indeed, clothing
needs purifying as much as closet, and an occasional disinfecting will
help on the good work of sanitation. After the closet is once rid of
moths, tar paper specially prepared for the purpose and tacked on the
walls, is effectual in keeping them away, for they seem to "smell the
battle afar off."

CHAPTER XII

HANGINGS, BRIC-A-BRAC, BOOKS, AND PICTURES

"Step by step" is a good thought to hold when we reach the fancifying
of the house, as we only do after days of planning, nights of waking,
over the must-be's. And, after all, these last accessories are divided
from the necessaries by but a hair line, for it is they which give the
home its soul--that beautiful, spiritual softness and radiance which we
love and which differentiate the home from the house which is but its
shell. The life and spirit of the home should be one of growth and
development, which can only be achieved in a proper atmosphere and
environment; and these it now rests with the home builder to supply in
the radiant harmony and softness which flow from these final
"trimmings," which not only create but reflect character.

THE CHARM OF DRAPERY

Hangings have a considerable share in making the home atmosphere, their
mission being to soften harsh angles and outlines and warm cold, stiff
plainness into comfort. Window curtains act as an equalizer in
bringing the very best out of both light and dark rooms, serving at the
same time as a partial background for their contents; while portieres
are not only aesthetic but useful in deadening sounds, cutting off
draughts, and screening one