rest about 3/4 in. below the top edge of the rails. A well
filled leather cushion completes this part.

A more satisfactory result is obtained by putting in springs and
upholstering the seat. Upon this the leather cushion can be placed.

[Illustration: By Swinging the Top Back the Table is Transformed into
the Elegant Davenport Seen on the Opposite Page]

[Illustration: The Billiard Table as Converted into a Luxurious
Davenport--A Child Can Make the Change in a Moment]

The top or table is built upon and about a heavy frame of well seasoned
1-3/4-in. by 5-3/4-in. white pine. The parts to this frame are
thoroughly mortised and tenoned together. Middle stretchers, lengthwise
and crosswise, give added strength and rigidity. Upon this frame the
slate bed is leveled by planing the frame wherever necessary. Slats are
fastened to the bed by screws, the heads of which are countersunk so
that they may be covered over even with plaster of paris.

[Illustration: Details Showing Dimensions of Parts]

The top and side facings are built together, the angle being reinforced
with block and glue, as shown in detail. These facings, to which the
cushions are attached, are afterward made fast to the frame by
ornamental headed screws. The detail and photograph show the manner of
applying the under facing.

Before attaching the top and side facings, the bed cloth should be
placed over the slate and fastened. The nap of the cloth should run from
the head toward the opposite end of the table. Draw the cloth as tight
as possible, taking care that there shall be no wrinkles.

The billiard cushions can be bought ready to cover. The bumpers which
keep the top from striking the front posts can be obtained by making
proper selection from oak door bumpers carried in stock by hardware
dealers. The brass swing bars, most likely, can be obtained at the same
place.

The upholstering on the under side of the top--the back of the
davenport--is to be built upon a stout frame made of some suitable
common wood, and the whole set in the recess formed as shown in the
detail drawing--the whole being fastened from the back before the slate
bed is put in position.

Effort should be made to select leather of a color that will harmonize
with the wood finish which is to be applied.

EASILY MADE BOOK SHELVES

Very cheap but useful and attractive book shelves are shown in the
accompanying drawing. The vertical strips, A, may be 3/4 in. by 2 in.
a