E OF CHILDREN AND THE AGED BY THE STATE

This is one of the subjects in line with the philanthropy of to-day, and
will be found suggestive of social work for women's clubs.

The first paper might be on Orphan Asylums; the care of young children,
their food, dress, education and personal oversight. What of adopting
children from asylums? What of placing children in homes instead of
asylums?

The second paper would take up: the defective children to be cared for
in asylums. The blind, deaf, epileptic and idiots.

The third paper would be on the care of the aged; of almshouses,
especially those of the county; are they sanitary, well cared for and
cheerful? Are the old people well fed, clothed and amused? Are husbands
and wives separated?

The last paper might touch upon English almshouses on the cottage plan
and contrast them with our own large institutions.

Discuss the near-by almshouses, and question what can be done to better
conditions.

IX--RECENT BOOKS

A group of three or at the most four books are quite enough for a
miscellaneous program for one afternoon. They may be selected on one
general theme, such as biography, or on several. The first book
suggested here is a delightful life study, that of Robert E. Lee, Man
and Soldier, by Thomas Nelson Page. Notice the clearness and beauty of
the style, the appreciation of the man's character and work, and the
well chosen descriptions of his associates. Read part of a chapter near
the close of the book.

Second, have a paper on The Promised Land, by Mary Antin, one of the
really great books of to-day. Tell the story of her life, reading here
and there from her own words; show how she was handicapped and yet how
she rose, and speak of the fact that such women bring inspiration to our
shores.

Third, take The Three Brontes, by May Sinclair, a book of fascinating
interest. Briefly give a resume of the family, and speak of the work of
each sister; compare with Clement Shorter's The Brontes and Their
Circle.

Or, for a program on several topics, have these three books for the
papers: first, The Lady of the Decoration, by Frances Little. Give a
review, with its story, the local color, the humor and pathos; read
short selections.

Second, take Heretics, by Chesterton; here again, review his style, his
mannerisms, and note his light touch; read briefly from two essays.

Third, take a collection of short stories, perhaps Jacobs' Dialstone
Lane. Speak of his qua