takes the place of the
library, the selection of a suitable library table will be a good test
of the homemaker's discrimination. The quality of this table should be
at least equal to the best we have to show. Whether it shall be
squared, or oblong with oval ends, depends upon tastes; by all means it
should be get-at-able. That's what a library table is for. Good
designs in "arts and crafts" may be had as low as $16.50 in a small
size; 72-inch, about $50. Golden oak costs less, mahogany considerably
more.

THE DAVENPORT

The davenport in mahogany or oak, in a plain or striped velour
tapestry, felt filled, with good springs, built on straight lines with
claw feet, broad arms, and heavy back, is a good article and will not
leave much change out of a $50 bill. That represents a fair price for
a fair quality, and it would be better to do without the davenport than
to go in for something too cheap. The sort that have detached cushions
in soft leather are very nice and practically dustless. The same is
true of easy chairs so provided. A handsome weathered-oak davenport
with cushions of this kind will be found marked somewhere about $65,
while half that price pays for an easy chair of the same style. The
cushions are filled with felt. Springs and fillings in davenports,
easy chairs, and couches should be most thoroughly investigated. If
there are carvings they must be subjected to the severest tests of
appropriateness, and in no event should they be where they will come in
frequent contact with other articles or with persons.

BOOKCASES

Bookcases in weathered oak, with the top sections of the doors in
leaded glass, seem worth the prices at $28 for 30-inch, $43.50 for
4-foot, and $47.50 for 5-foot; yet a simple 30-inch golden oak case
"made in Grand Rapids," and of which no one need be ashamed, costs but
$14. Sectional cases are very convenient, and are now being designed
in artistic styles, but are not yet altogether approvable for the
parlor or living room. For the library simply, they are to be
recommended. Bookcases and other heavy pieces should either set
solidly upon the floor or have sufficient open space beneath them to
permit cleaning. Unless their contents are (mistakenly) hidden by
curtains, the bookcases should not be placed in too strong sunlight, as
some bindings fade rapidly. Nor should they be near the heat
radiators, or against a wall that may possess moisture. The piano,
too, m