ult, the piano
was taken back by the dealer.

The Browns, fortunately, are persons who do not give in readily in the
face of adversity. They will work out their own problem and regain lost
ground. Indeed, they have already moved into cheaper living quarters,
not only to adapt themselves to a smaller income but also to work out of
debt and re-acquire a piano. Much of the heartache in this situation
might have been avoided if the couple had depended less on the wife's
income to meet essential expenses.

One of the greatest pitfalls in the path of any young couple is the
feeling that they must "keep up with the Joneses." We all think of
ourselves as belonging to a certain social group--whether we express it
in snobbish terms or not. But we need not on that account maintain a
standard comparable to that of a neighbor whom we admire if, in doing
so, we overextend ourselves. Intelligent persons are not impressed
favorably by pretense.

What impresses is training and ability. Since the best time to acquire
these is when we are young, it may be necessary for a while to practice
the very opposite of ostentation--self-sacrifice. If your husband is a
professional man and you have married early, he may still be working
for an advanced degree. This entails fees and--what is even more
exacting--time. It means sacrifice--giving up social engagements and
many comforts which you would be able to have on your husband's present
salary. There is no more basic part of the budget today than provision
for more vocational training.

Most of us waste money on nonessentials. We have glass curtains before
we can afford them, whereas no curtains often make our houses lighter
and more restful. We have fancy trays, knickknacks, and extra little
tables that we do not need. The most attractive houses are in many cases
those which show no evidence of overcrowding.

How many women, if they look into their bureau drawers, will not find
them cluttered with accessories which either are not used or, if worn,
spoil the elegance and tidy distinction of their costumes? Buying wisely
is an art, but it requires no special talent--only a willingness to
learn--and there are any number of books and magazine articles available
that will help you to be better buyers. There are a few general
recommendations, however, which may be made.

For example, don't buy without asking yourself in each instance: "Do I
need this?" and "Will it fit in with other things I now