has been prominent in the public eye,
there is no excuse, or reason, for any but a private funeral. Time was
when not to hasten to the house of death was thought unkind; not to attend
the funeral of an acquaintance a mark of disrespect. We have changed all
that. We do not expect the uninvited to attend our weddings and
receptions, why should they come at times of much more intimate and
personal emotion--those times when we can hardly endure the words and
presence of those we love best? What the sensitive have endured at the
hands--or tongues--of well-meaning but clumsy sympathizers--not
infrequently curious as well as sympathetic--only those who have suffered
can relate. In addition to the natural grief experienced, the members of
the family are usually worn out with nights of watching and days of
anxiety; it is a fresh strain to be obliged to see people, relate
sick-room details and listen to stereotyped condolences.

[750 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

The Undertaker.--Cases are rare where there is not some "next friend" who
is competent to see the undertaker, and arrange details with him. In fact,
the undertaker may well be put in charge. He should be competent and
experienced. A clumsy, fussy undertaker is an affliction.

The undertaker will obtain the physician's certificate as to the cause of
death, without which in many cities a burial permit cannot be issued. He
will secure the necessary permit, see to the preparation of the grave, and
the purchase of a lot if necessary, arrange the house for the funeral,
furnish the bearers, and secure the requisite number of carriages; and,
before the family returns from the cemetery, have the funeral
paraphernalia out of the house, so that the maids or whoever is left in
charge can restore the rooms to their wonted order. Everything possible is
done to spare the grief-stricken.

The Duties of the Next Friend.--The actual duties devolving upon the
person representing the family include ascertaining their wishes as
regards the officiating clergyman and his notification of their desire and
the hour of the funeral; for music, if any is desired; the selection of a
casket, and determining the number of carriages to be ordered. A written
list of relatives and friends who will go to the cemetery, arranged in
order of their relationship, four in a carriage, is given the undertaker
for his guidance in assigning those present to their places. The friend of
the family will accompany the under