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diff --git a/old/67641-0.txt b/old/67641-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 130198b..0000000 --- a/old/67641-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1850 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook of Idealia, a Utopian Dream, by Harriet -Alfarata Chapman Thompson - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you -will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before -using this eBook. - -Title: Idealia, a Utopian Dream - or Resthaven - -Author: Harriet Alfarata Chapman Thompson - -Contributor: John Wallace Thompson - -Release Date: March 16, 2022 [eBook #67641] - -Language: English - -Produced by: Charlene Taylor, Guus Snijders and the Online Distributed - Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was - produced from images generously made available by The - Internet Archive/American Libraries.) - -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK IDEALIA, A UTOPIAN -DREAM *** - - - - Transcriber’s note: - - This version of the text cannot represent certain typographical - effects. Italics are delimited with the '_' character as _italic_. - The illustrations with a caption have been replaced with - [Illustration: caption]. - - The few minor errors, attributable to the printer, have been - corrected. Please see the transcriber’s note at the end of this - text for details regarding the handling of any textual issues - encountered during its preparation. - - - - - Illustration: The late Mrs. H. Alfarata Chapman Thompson, Albany, N. Y. - - - - - IDEALIA - - _A UTOPIA DREAM - OR RESTHAVEN_ - - - - - - COPYRIGHTED, 1923 - J. WALLACE THOMPSON - ALBANY, N. Y. - - - - - ---------------------------- - COMPOSITION, PRESSWORK, AND BINDING - - BY - - J. B. LYON COMPANY, ALBANY, N. Y. - - - - -[Illustration: The Home of the late Mrs. H. Alfarata Chapman Thompson.] - - - - - IDEALIA, A UTOPIA DREAM - or - RESTHAVEN - - -This interesting and beautiful story, within a few lines of its finish, -was written by Miss H. Alfarata Chapman, Stenographer for many years in -charge of the catalogue department, University of the State of New York, -New York State Library. - -Miss Chapman and John W. Thompson were married by Rev. J. Hill Johnson, -Rector of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Catskill, N. Y., September 10, -1921. - -Miss Helena R. Goines, a life-long friend, was the Maid of Honor. -William A. Chapman, brother of the Bride, was best man. The other two -friends present were Mrs. John Butler, Mother of the Maid of Honor and -Mrs. Clarissa Mims. Mrs. H. Alfarata Chapman Thompson was a brilliant -young woman, highly educated, having graduated with honors from the -Albany High School and the Albany Business College, and a gifted and -graceful writer. Her demise while visiting her dearly beloved brother in -Cambridge, Mass., June 9, 1922, was a sad and dreadful shock to her many -friends all over the country. Many of the most intimate friends appealed -to me, her husband, to publish the story of the Utopia Dream, which so -beautifully brings the portrayal of the characters of those within the -Resthaven with characteristic sweetness and grace. - -To the many friends who may read this little book should remember _that -it is published by request and dedicated to the memory of my devoted -Wife, one of the best types of American Womanhood_, true to her parents, -friends and relatives. - - JOHN W. THOMPSON. - - - - - Harriet Alfarata Chapman, wife of John W. Thompson, died at her - brother’s home, No. 7 West Street, Cambridge, Mass., June 9, - 1922. - - Remains reached her late residence, No. 436 Orange Street, June - 11th, where the funeral took place at 2:30 o’clock, June 12th. - Interment—Rural Cemetery, Albany, N. Y. - - Noted educator lauds her as an example of the universally high - regard in which she was held. Melvil Dewey, one of the State’s - leading educators and President of the Lake Placid Club, sent - the following to the bereaved husband: - - - “June 22, 1922. - - J. W. THOMPSON:— - Albany, N. Y. - - DEAR MR. THOMPSON:— - - I have learned with keen regret of your great loss. Your wife - was one of the best stenographers, most loyal assistants, I - have ever had. I have said hundreds of times that Harriet - Chapman was rarely equalled. Pray accept my sincere sympathy in - your loss and this testimony which I am so glad to bear to a - woman of unusual ability and character, who always commanded my - utmost respect and confidence. - - MELVIL DEWEY.” - - - - -[Illustration: Education Building, Albany, N. Y., where Mrs. H. Alfarata -Chapman Thompson was stenographer for many years in Catalogue -Department, University of the State of New York.] - - - - - PREFACE - - -The writer in sending out this little book asks that its readers will -try to bear in mind that while the whole idea may be more or less ideal, -it is hoped that here and there a thought may be culled which will serve -as a working-basis for one or another of its readers. Often in life we -realize that something within us is “knocking to be let out,” that it -may go forth and be of use unto the world. We frequently need but the -direction pointed to find a path along which we can tread, scattering -here and there a kindly word, giving of ourselves whatever is best and -worthy the giving, in return broadening our own lives, coming in touch -with all natures and feeling the satisfaction that results from “having -tried to do something.” Be the effort ever so small, it yet shows a -desire put in action and we can hope that, given a multitude of these -good actions, the result must surely be more sunshine, more hope, more -inspiration to help others, greater ability to enjoy all that God has -put before us. - -The writer could carry out her purpose only by having a setting which is -purely ideal, but from the ideal can often be deduced something real or -practical, and of that we can use and adapt to ourselves and individual -circumstances whatever will fit. In this case, it may be much or it may -be little, but let us hope that it will be something, at least, whatever -its measure may be. Therefore take from these pages that which appeals -to you, then pass on the book to the next that whatever good seeds this -little work may contain will in time fall in fruitful soil. - - - - - IDEALIA, A UTOPIA DREAM - or - RESTHAVEN - - - “Reflect that life, like every other blessing, - Derives its value from its use alone.” - -The day was ideal for me, an idler who had left the train at the station -not far from this particular hamlet, more because it looked attractive, -than from actual intention. Strolling leisurely along the shady lanes, -it seemed to me that something more than the usual calm and restful -peace of the country emanated from somewhere. A little farther on I -reached a place where all nature seemed to be rejoicing in her own -glory. Even the fence about the grounds surrounding the very large -dwelling within its boundary looked attractive in its quaint style and -bedecked with the flowering vines which clung lovingly to it. The -grounds were large and well kept. Immense trees spread their branches -and shade in all directions, looking cool and inviting with the -comfortable chairs, hammocks, tables and garden seats beneath, arranged -with seeming carelessness, yet each had apparently been put in the best -place for the general comfort and pleasure of any occupant. Beautiful -flower beds, many with fountains interspersed, made one linger -involuntarily and either drink the crystal water from the numerous -bright cups generously provided, or pass the hand gently through the -water, enjoying its refreshing coolness and bright sparkle in the -sunlight as it dropped from the fingers. What looked like dining-tables -on wheels seemed to be standing in convenient places but movable to -different locations, to allow the pleasure of eating out of doors, -presumably, as long as weather permitted. Truly, the inmates of this -enchanting spot must surely have studied how and where best to enjoy -life. Leisurely walking around I wondered that no one seemed visible -about the place, especially as it was after two o’clock in the afternoon -of a summer’s day. Reaching the house and feeling free to view it on all -sides, as no one appeared to prevent, I proceeded to examine it with the -idea of determining what sort of people lived here. On every side there -were large windows, and piazzas with tables, wicker rockers, sofas and -easy chairs. Here, too, with careful forethought, shading vines in not -too great profusion were trained on the sunny side of the house, making -inviting retreats from the sun, yet with occasional open spaces for any -preferring its full bright rays. Though an uninvited guest, I took the -liberty of picking out a comfortable corner, and feeling somewhat tired -from the long walk thought I would rest for an hour or two, having no -fear of being molested in such a peaceful place. It was then nearly -three. - -Surely my intended short nap must have stretched itself into hours, for -on awakening I saw people in every direction, young, old and middle -aged, but seemingly more of them old than young. A glance at my watch -showed that it was almost five o’clock, and since no one had troubled me -on discovering my unlicensed possession of one of the inviting nooks, I -felt free to question these new people. - -A gentleman of fine presence, accompanying a pleasant looking lady, came -up to me with friendly greeting. - -“My good friends,” said I, “will you kindly tell me what place this is, -who these people are and what they do?” - -With a cordial smile the lady answered, - -“Certainly. We are one large happy family.” - -The gentleman must have seen a sort of derisive smile cross my face (my -inward thought was, one of those new sects that are springing up with -somewhat mushroom-like growth all over the country), for he hastened to -add, - -“But not the kind of which you are thinking.” Continuing he said, “About -ten years ago, a lady somewhat elderly, and her husband, also no longer -young, were left alone in the world without children, but with plenty of -money and decided to create a model home. Permit me,” he broke off, “to -introduce myself as Mr. Andrews, their nephew, and this,” turning to his -companion, “is Miss Bates, one of the best and most charming ‘spirits’ -here.” - -This introduction so frankly given brought out, of course, a revelation -of my own name and residence, and in brief how my fondness for exploring -and investigating had led me hither. - -“But you were telling me,” I said, addressing Mr. Andrews after we had -chatted awhile, “how this wonderful place came into existence.” - -“So I was,” he answered, smiling a little. “Well, to proceed, these dear -old people conceived the happy idea of building a home and founding a -sort of ideal refuge for young and old, with or without means, who had -no immediate family or friends to look after their welfare. Together -they drew plans for the building, but the difficulty was to find the -right locality. Though no longer young, they were yet strong and able to -travel, so spent many days and weeks searching for a place satisfactory -as to climate both for human beings and for what livestock they might -care to raise, with soil lending itself readily to the cultivation of -various nutritious vegetables and fruits, and with abundant space for -the growth of this ideal colony. Evidently they could have found no -better location than this for the seasons here are never extreme, and -nature seems to have smiled her blessing on the good work so far, since -all our efforts have met with unusual success. Shall I go on?” he -questioned, stopping almost abruptly. - -A simultaneous yes from Miss Bates and myself must have indicated a real -interest, and being thus encouraged he proceeded, - -“After finding a satisfactory site, they next erected this substantial -building of plain brick, in which the first objects to be attained were -cleanliness, comfort and convenience. They wished it commodiously -arranged with light and airy bedrooms, dining-room, kitchens, and cosy -nooks taking the place of the long and stately drawing-room, these last -being so arranged and connected with each other as to make large -assembly-rooms should occasion demand. A carefully selected library was -also to have suitable quarters, growing with the place.” - -By this time my curiosity was so keen that I begged the privilege of -seeing the whole plant with explanations added as my guides took me -through, which request was most readily granted. But before proceeding, -I could not refrain from asking why it was that I had found the place -apparently deserted. In answer to this query Mr. Andrews said, while he -strolled leisurely along, - -“As you have perhaps noticed, many, in fact most of the family are -elderly people. In following out the plan we have tried not to forget -that older persons need more sleep, that they are particularly apt to -wish to ‘take a nap’ during the higher degrees of heat, or perhaps in -the afternoon anyway, so for the benefit of all we made the rule of -taking an hour or two of sleep or rest about this time every day. This -rule is, of course, not compulsory except insofar that no one may do -anything that might in any way disturb the peace of those wishing to -enjoy a restful hour. Hence the reason for your thinking you had -discovered a sort of deserted village.” - -Time was passing notwithstanding this most interesting conversation, and -it seemed wise that I should be seeking shelter for the night, also -something to satisfy a very natural hunger. Explaining to my new found -acquaintances that I should need to get on and requesting permission to -return the next day so that I might accept their invitation to see the -home in all its details, Miss Bates exclaimed, - -“Why go farther? Do you think that we have failed to provide a great -chamber or two for a chance visitor, or that there is not full and -plenty with which to refresh those who merit out entertainment? If you -will accept our hospitality, I am sure you will be most welcome during -your stay in these parts.” - -Naturally, I was very glad to accept the invitation as cordially as it -was extended, including as it did an offer to send to the station for my -luggage. - -As we talked my attention was attracted to the dainty white tablecloths, -glimpses of which could be seen as they were being spread on the tables -mentioned previously. These had been wheeled to pleasant parts of the -grounds and near to convenient cupboards skilfully concealed by the -trees and garden benches. From these cupboards bright faced young women -were taking plain, neat china, glassware, knives, forks and spoons and -busily arranging the tables for supper. I appreciated the bright mind -which had conceived these conveniences, but was not prepared to see the -food brought in little carts and distributed to the various tables. -There was full and plenty of everything, fresh, wholesome bread, fruit, -summer salads, golden butter, rich milk and delicious cake, everything -looking the more appetizing by being in this,—nature’s own dininghall, -decorated by her gifts in all their glorious beauty. - -“That looks most inviting,” I remarked, adding a little mischievously, -“what are you going to do with the occasional tea drinker or coffee -‘fiend’? There seems provision for neither beverage, served either hot -or cold.” - -“Those who wish either cold can have all they desire,” Mr. Andrews -answered, “for it is brought with the other food. For the convenience of -those preferring it hot, perhaps the easier way to explain our plan is -to take you to one of those hidden closets.” And we wended our way -thither. - -“Here, you see,” he continued, “is a small iron disk to which an -electric wire is attached. Underneath is a good sized asbestos plate for -protection from the heated disk. Turning this little switch, in almost a -twinkling tea or coffee can be served steaming hot. By means of this -little apparatus also, we are able to heat sufficient water for -cleansing the dishes and other articles, which saves carrying back and -forth to the main storeroom everything except the food. It is deemed -economy to keep this in one place that better account may be kept of the -supply and less waste result than would be possible if the food were -distributed in individual iceboxes. The closets, though skilfully built, -are made strong in every way, so that we feel no danger in leaving our -material in them, besides there are some who take turns as watchmen, and -we feel safe in their care. Therefore everything is arranged -conveniently and safely.” - -“There is no doubt of that,” I replied, “for you have certainly studied -how to get out of life the most and best, yet without the appearance of -laziness, making the most of nature’s gifts and resources and putting -them into use for the benefit of all.” - -“In the language of the poet,” remarked Miss Bates, “we ‘Taste the joy -that springs from labor.’” - -Taking our places at one of the tables, (there was no choice for all -looked equally tempting, the members of each group seeming to have -benignity stamped on their faces) my friends introduced me here and -there and the same cordial greeting was apparent in all. Bright, -cheerful conversation made the meal lively, newspaper topics were -discussed with equal zest by young and old, every one, apparently, -seeming abreast of the times. There was no portioning off of all the -young or all the old, but a happy mingling of both. For is it not so in -everything in life? Even as the older branches on the tree are decaying -and falling off, they can feel the new life blood and companionship of -the younger shoots pushing forth to take their places when they shall -have withered and fallen. Only the other day I had given me three red -roses on one stem. One was full blown to the degree of decay. The next -was a little deeper in shade, all its petals uncurled, but ready in a -little while to follow the other. The last was rich in its deep red -beauty, the outer petals open, but the center just unfolding. So it -seemed to me that this happy mingling of all ages was a most beautiful -element in this Utopian scheme. - -The supper was one of the most enjoyable of my life, and is to this day -always a pleasant memory. After the meal, all seemed to take a share, so -far as in his or her strength lay, in putting things in order without -confusion, and those exempt for any cause strolled about in the lovely -evening air, or sat and chatted with their neighbors. And the glorious -sunset added beauty to the scene, fitly illustrating these exquisite -lines,— - - “Touched by a light that hath no name - A glory never sung, - Aloft on sky and mountain wall - Are God’s great pictures hung.” - -I wended my way here and there, feeling safe and happy in this haven of -rest, finding all with whom I talked very interesting. - -As darkness crept on, the grounds were beautifully illuminated by -myriads of incandescent lights in various colored globes, shedding their -soft radiance upon the scene, making it almost fairylike in its beauty. - -Inquiring the hour for retiring, I was informed that no limit was -placed, it being understood that each would use discretion as to proper -hours. They were after all located not very far from various attractions -and churches of different denominations, accessible by conveyances for -the older people and by an electric railway which I later discovered -came within easy reach of their grounds. They told me, however, that -though not meaning to appear selfish, it was found with such a -household, such a variety of people and approved amusements of all -kinds, there was little outside attraction for many of them. Of course -certain supplies had to be obtained and extra produce disposed of, and -for those not caring to make the necessary trip others were always glad -and willing to do their errands. - -I was shown for the night to a dear little room. “Dear,” because a large -bedroom with canopied bed, imposing furniture and heavy draperies never -appeals to me so much as a simple, but daintily arranged chamber which -makes one just long to lie right down and go to sleep. This furniture -was white with a little sprig of green vine decorating it, the color -scheme of the room in every particular having been carried out in a way -at once refreshing and attractive. - -In the act of drawing the shades at the windows the scene without -claimed my attention. The little hamlet a few miles away lay wrapped in -peaceful slumber. Against the unclouded sky the spires of the churches -were outlined distinctly, while the hundreds of electric lights appeared -like stars of dazzling brilliancy. Down the unseen tracks of the -railroad near by an electric car came speeding on its way. Moved by that -wonderful, invisible power, it seemed to have come and gone, in its -extreme rapidity, almost by magic, reappearing in the far distance like -a will-o’-the-wisp as now and then it was hidden from view by the tall -trees. - -My sleep was that of the just as well as the tired, for on bidding my -friends good night I learned that I had walked much farther than it -seemed, having of course taken the longer route. - -On awaking the next morning it was raining and though a walk in the rain -is by no means objectionable to me, it was pleasant to think of being -already at headquarters for the day, particularly when so many -interesting things were in store. After arranging my toilet I went out -on the little balcony leading from the room. From there I could enjoy -with renewed appreciation the grounds about the house, being surprised -at their vast extent, none too large, however, in view of the purpose of -the family. Everything looked bright and fresh from the rain as it -gently fell, the fountains jetting up in welcome greeting. - -Thinking it must be time for breakfast I reentered the room and started -for the dining-room. Going through the hall I met a charming little -woman, who gave me a bright morning smile and invited me to go with her -to breakfast. She had reached beyond her three score, her hair was as -beautiful as spun silver, and her face bore the lines with which time -stamps the character of our life. Hers was only kindly and she seemed my -rose in its fullest bloom. Lightly putting my arm about her waist -together we wended our way downstairs. She was bright and interesting, -her inquiries being delicate, but to the point. She had seen me the -night before, though it happened that I had not met her. My remark on -the fact that it was raining brought out this answer, - -“Yes, but we mind it not. We rejoice that our efforts are helped and -blessed by God’s own hand, for do not the berries grow and ripen from -the rain and sun, our vegetables increase in plenty and our cattle -thrive on the rich grass, and does not it all help us to help each other -in this our cooperative plan to help one another? We are grateful for -the rains, for the sunshine and for our many blessings.” - -Somehow I must have had an intuitive feeling that this little lady was -none other than the kind spirited person who had laid the foundation for -this happy home, and fearing not to give offense, I frankly asked if -this were true. - -“It is,” she answered. “But since we have gotten so nicely started my -husband has been taken from me.” The gentle eyes grew moist as she -continued, “I feel, however, that he has gone to that happier, brighter -home, and although I miss him in many ways, I look forward to the union -beyond and am making myself content and happy by trying to bring -sunshine into the lives of others who have lost those equally dear. To -me, - - ‘By his life alone, - Gracious and sweet, the better way was shown.’” - -I breathed a prayer of gratitude that the Father above had put it into -the hearts of some, at least, to accept in such spirit their afflictions -and to seek thus to bear them by giving and getting hope and cheer. - -By this time we had reached the dining-room and Mr. Andrews seeing us, -drew near. He introduced me to the lady, his aunt, Mrs. Chester, but I -think she and I both felt that a very friendly feeling had already -sprung up between us and, on my part, at least, I hoped it was cemented -by the more formal introduction. - -“Well,” remarked Mr. Andrews, “you see the rain will prevent our eating -out of doors this morning, but we trust the meal inside will be equally -enjoyable to you for we are a little proud of both our dining-rooms.” - -“I expect to find pleasure in seeing every side of the life here,” I -replied, “and am somewhat glad that it is possible to have the -opportunity to observe it under all conditions.” - -Accompanying Mrs. Chester we passed into a large room with numerous -tables and comfortable chairs having rubber tipped legs. On the walls -were pictures, neatly and tastefully framed, of fish, game, fruit and -vegetables in natural tints. Beautiful closets, with glass doors and -drawers beneath, containing all the necessary table accessories, were -arranged at convenient points. There were also other closets with -artistically carved panels, the use of which I had yet to discover. -Nothing, however, looked superfluous, the room being attractive, but -intended for its particular purpose only. - -There seemed to be no lingering, for when we sat down the room appeared -to me as if it must contain its entire household. The tables drew my -attention by their peculiar construction. They were round, the center -appearing to be separate from the outer part and to revolve -independently. At regular intervals on the central part there were -convenient small handles by which it could be turned and its contents -reached by those sitting at the outer table. Everything was served ready -to eat, coffee and tea being in patent vessels, into the bottom of which -slipped a hot asbestos plate. The tables averaged about five persons, -each of whom helped himself or was helped by another, the meal -progressing as happily as that of the previous evening. Having no more -choice than when out of doors, there was no seeking of a particular -seat, but all contributed their quota to making the party at every table -a pleasant one. - -To have attained such perfect precision seemed to me must have cost the -study of a lifetime yet they told me that even those who had been there -but a short while seemed to fully appreciate the spirit of the home and -to join readily with the rest in their efforts for the best welfare of -all. Regular meal hours were fixed, every one knew them and all came -promptly. - -After breakfast, the dishes were washed at convenient porcelain sinks -which were disclosed on opening the other closets. The tables were reset -for the next meal if it were likely to be eaten indoors, or the articles -put away till next needed. Food and refuse were gathered in proper -receptacles, put on the shelves of wheeled trucks and taken to their -respective places. Everything was done not hastily, with the effort of -hurrying to get through, but with the intent and purpose of doing it and -doing it right and cheerfully. - -I could not help thinking that it seemed as if some gentle fairy must -have given her patronage here, the results appearing like magical -wonders. - -Mr. Andrews joined his aunt and myself as we were leaving the room. In -the course of conversation it came out that he was by profession a -doctor, and practised in the neighboring towns as well as in this -immediate hamlet. Feeling that perhaps on my part it was taking too much -of his time to show me about the place I said as much and he answered, - -“Do not fear. In the first place, here in this particular locality I -have little use for my professional knowledge. We seem to have been more -than blessed with good health and spirits, and my ability, in greater or -less degree, as a director for this home comes into better play than in -the administering of my pills or powders.” A happy smile accompanied -this remark as though he felt heartily grateful that it was true. - -I asked Mrs. Chester whither she was bound and she said, - -“To look after my children, keep busy and out of mischief for a while, -but I shall see you later on. Take good care of her,” she said to Mr. -Andrews as she left us. - -“Which would you like to see first,” he questioned. “You have seen some -of [Illustration: The Home of the late Mrs. H. Alfarata Chapman -Thompson.] our ideas, but what appeals most strongly to you as next to -be investigated?” - -“Everything,” I replied quickly, “and since I can not choose as all is -equally interesting, you had better decide, for - - ‘The atmosphere - Breathes rest and comfort, and the many chambers - Seem full of welcome.’” - -“Very well, as you are a woman, I judge that the prettier parts may -appeal to you most strongly and shall show you our conversation corners -and parlorettes.” And he led the way to one of the latter. - -It was furnished in such manner as to show careful thought for -adaptability to any season, yet seemed peculiarly suggestive of only -one. There was no upholstered furniture to gather dust, lose shape, be -uncomfortable in warm weather or hygienically unsafe. Pillows and -adjustable seat cushions, however, were in plenty to be used presumably, -in any way, for the comfort of occupants on the attractive couchs, -chairs and rockers of willow. The floor in wood of artistically colored -design had here and there a rug harmonizing in color, but light in -weight. On the walls were a few carefully chosen pictures of summer -scenes and themes suggesting thoughts of that season. A water-nymph, -Pan, Psyche and other choice pieces of bric-a-brac roused my admiration, -as did also the folios of small pictures giving views of cascades, -mountain trails, lakes, forests and picturesque scenery. A cursory look -at the magazines and books showed that they too were suggestive of -nature study, outings and the many opportunities peculiar to the summer -season, to come closer in touch with nature. The whole arrangement of -the room seemed intended to suggest only summer and I asked if this had -been their plan. - -“Yes,” said Mr. Andrews in reply to my question, “that was part of the -idea, but it was not intended to suggest such thoughts only, for as I -have already remarked, we know not extremes here. The thought in the -arrangement of each of our principal rooms, as you will discover, was, -in conjunction with this to give a basis for change and rest to the mind -if one were alone, or to serve as an impetus for topics of conversation, -discussions and talks that will be helpful as well as interesting, and -we look for this in all our household so far as possible.” - -The idea seemed beautiful theoretically, but I could not help feeling a -little skeptical about it. - -From there we entered next what was evidently a music-room, for a fine -piano stood open, choice music and books about music and musicians lay -on the tables, and one or two different instruments gave proof that some -of the people were interested in other lines. Here too, apparently, care -had been taken to inspire to effort by portraits of some of the famous -composers, including the beloved Mendelssohn, Rubenstein, Chopin, Liszt, -and an excellent copy of the favorite picture “Song without words,” also -known as “Mendelssohn and his Sister.” There was no lavish display in -anything, but the whole room bespoke a wish to rouse and keep interested -those with talent in this direction. As we turned to leave, a man, by no -means young, but with purpose reflected on his strong, kind face, -entered and Mr. Andrews introduced him as Mr. Whitehurst. Not wishing to -interrupt him I said, - -“We shall not disturb you, for I presume you are another Franz Abt or -perhaps a Pinsuti about to try the melodies floating through your brain, -and then give them forth to the world to enjoy.” - -“No,” he answered laughingly, “I am practically but a beginner. Though -having a little latent talent, until I came here the chance had never -been offered to cultivate it. Now I have opportunity to practise and do -what I can after regular duties are finished, and am very happy.” After -chatting a little while we bade him good morning, and left him to pursue -his studies. - -Once outside of hearing, I ventured to inquire what the occupation might -be of this particular man, and was told that his work lay chiefly in the -care of the flower and vegetable gardens as he had excellent knowledge -in this direction. - -“Mr. Whitehurst came to us,” said Mr. Andrews, “heartsick and -discouraged. He had sought work in his own and other lines without -success, was alone in the world and not in the best of health. We asked -what he could do, also an honest statement of where he had come from -together with information on a few other minor points, then gave him a -chance to do what he could. I am glad to say he has proven fully worthy -of our confidence. He has under him several of our younger men who are -equally interested in the best farming and floriculture. By agreement -and careful arrangement of their work, each has time for his own special -line of amusement, and Mr. Whitehurst has practised diligently. -Fortunately, having in our household one who is quite a skilled musician -we have been able to guide and cheer him on. I think we shall never have -any regret for he has proven most exemplary in every way.” - -Again I inwardly asked many blessings on those good people whose purpose -in life was of the highest and noblest. While thinking thus, we had -reached another room which I immediately conjectured had been planned to -represent fall. Here again was unupholstered furniture, but its -framework carried the colors of autumn foliage. Some of the pictures -were of the woods in their rich beauty at the turning of the leaves, -others were of the hunt, the vineyard and merry parties gathering nuts. -The literature also suggested seasonable topics and one could only feel -happy amid such surroundings. I was getting bewildered by the successful -manner in which this novel idea had been carried out and less skeptical, -and had to show my admiration in numerous expressions of praise. - -A graceful turn past pretty corners brought us to the library which was -so inviting with its little tables, comfortable chairs and shelves well -filled with the best literature, dictionaries, cyclopedias and other -reference books. Pictures of the “Poets Corner,” of the “Taj Mahal,” of -the “Children of Charles I of England,” of the “Colosseum” were an -inspiration to explore into the history of various countries, while -excellent casts of the “Winged Victory of Samothrace,” “Mercury,” and -the “Three Fates,” busts of Homer, Milton, Joan of Arc, Longfellow and -Whittier seemed to make one involuntarily long to gain knowledge of -mythology, art, famous people, poetry and other interesting subjects. - -“Our library is small as yet,” said Mr. Andrews, “but we wish it to grow -with us, to speak in itself of the progress of our life here. Therefore -selections and additions are made with judicious care and we have -allowed ample room for a few years growth at least.” - -Leading into the library was a smaller room or alcove arranged with -conveniences for a teacher and pupils, and even as we entered a little -girl was just finishing a morning lesson in arithmetic. A bright face -young woman accompanied her and both looked happy. Our introductions and -conversation revealed the fact that the elder was a Miss Lorimer and had -formerly been governess in a family of wealth, who believed in educating -their children by travel as well as by books. She seemed to have a store -of knowledge made all the richer by coming in close contact and studying -things in fact as well as in fancy. - -“My little pupil, Alice, here,” she said, “is particularly happy in -having mastered a very hard problem for her in mathematics. We get on -very well in other subjects, but this seems more difficult. Therefore to -make it perhaps a little plainer and also less tedious than constant -study from books, we are going out now to study arithmetic from nature. -Everything looks refreshed since the rain and the ground absorbs the -moisture so quickly that I think we shall be safe. We are going to add, -subtract, multiply and divide the rows of potatoes in the vegetable -garden and incidentally take a lesson in botany as we study the -blossoms, leaves, roots and general manner in which potatoes grow. We -shall have a happy time, shall we not, Alice?” - -“Yes, Miss Lorimer,” the child answered. “I am always happy here. While -I am busy with my hands putting away the dishes and placing the chairs -about the tables in the dining-room, my mind is also full of thoughts -about my lessons and hoping you will have something new in store for me. -And I feel so glad to be useful that it seems to take almost only a -minute to do anything. My! but I’m glad they brought me here.” - -The dear little face did indeed look bright and happy as we all said -good morning and they turned away together. - -“Truly,” I said to Mr. Andrews, “you have certainly all learned the -pleasure of giving as well as of receiving, for Miss Lorimer looks quite -as pleased as little Alice.” - -“Yes,” he answered, “that is so. They who thus give of themselves seem -to be as glad to impart their knowledge as those seeking it are to gain -it. Here, any who lack instruction are helped in all lines by those -having ability to teach. Miss Lorimer from her large experience is very -successful in teaching both young and old, and has a most delightful way -of adopting methods likely to keep all interested and result in real -study.” - -“As an aid in such work,” he continued, “we have started here a -miniature museum,” and he led the way across the room to where glass -cases stood containing specimens of birds, insects, minerals and animals -that were common about the place or that had been obtained elsewhere and -contributed. An exceptionally fine botanic collection carefully mounted -was of more than ordinary interest. - -“How was it possible,” I asked, “for you to think of everything to thus -complete the family life here?” - -“Perhaps it was easier than you think,” Mr. Andrews replied. “Although -my aunt and her husband in establishing this home had certain lines -which they wished to follow, they never failed to get ideas from all and -every one who could contribute anything toward making life within these -walls happy for both young and old. They were fortunate in having among -their friends some men and women with rare minds, a little means, and, -like themselves, without relatives. Therefore, when spoken to regarding -this novel scheme they were only too glad to become members of the -household, to do their share in its labor and contribute their quota for -the good of all.” - -“Had this not been so,” I answered, “your wonderful home would have been -an utter impossibility. It takes, first of all, people possessing broad, -liberal spirits, willing to give in every way for the benefit of others, -to make success crown such an effort as this. Knowledge is a very -necessary item, but unaccompanied with generosity of heart, will ever be -like the miser’s gold hidden away,—a principal accruing no interest. -While not in use, neither can circulate for the benefit of the world or -carry out its real purpose.” - -To this Mr. Andrews replied, “Your comparison is not only a good one, -but quite true. We try in every way to live for each other and to hoard -up nothing.” - -“But here we are to our next parlorette which may possibly be termed -‘winter:’ However, if this means to you only snow covered earth, -ice-locked rivers, people in furs and the jingle of sleigh-bells, you -can look for suggestions for such thoughts in the pictures mainly and -some of the literature. We do not wish our smiles to freeze on the lips, -our hearts to coldly respond to the pleas of others, nor our minds even -temporarily inactive. We would get from winter thoughts of purity when -Mother Earth puts on her ermine mantle; of lightheartedness as the -children skate merrily over frozen waters glistening in the sunlight, or -faces smile out on you as sleighs skim by with their happy occupants; of -a happy home circle gathered about a great open fire as grandfather and -grandmother tell of bygone days when they too were young and enjoyed -roasting nuts or apples before the bright fire, or shook the corn-popper -till every kernel had burst into a toothsome morsel.” - -I could easily imagine such happy scenes as Mr. Andrews pictured and -marveled not to find the “winter” room quite as he had described it. The -furniture was of a rich, warm coloring, still carrying out the hygienic -principle, since none of it was upholstered, but, as in the other rooms, -its odd shapes and restful pillows made it equally as inviting as if of -the richest satin. Against the snowy trimmings of the room and the -white-framed pictures it was most effective. The books of travel, -history and other more solid subjects, and magazines containing -biographic sketches and articles on topics of the day, invited real, -earnest reading. But an object of special interest was a rug of quite -good size, in the center of the floor, whose color was pure white. I -knew immediately that it was not fur, since they had told me that there -were no extremes in weather in that locality. Presumably, therefore, a -rug of that material would not find resting-place. On examination it -proved to be nothing but white cord. Mr. Andrews seeing my attention was -drawn to it explained, - -“That rug we prize very highly, though so simple in its makeup. It is, -as you see, knit of plain white cord and put on a substantial backing. -One of our eldest ladies, now gone to rest, enjoyed passing some of her -leisure time in this way, with the result that the rug is not only -unique, but quite effective. Though from its fluffiness it looks -somewhat heavy, with the great conveniences in our laundry it is easily -washed and is therefore always white and clean.” - -I could almost see the dear hands plying the needle, and the smiles of -pleasure that must have crossed the good woman’s face as she watched the -work grow beneath her nimble fingers till at last it was done and she -could give it, showing in its color the purity of her life, in its work -the activity of mind and heart till the last, and in all, her love for -this happy home on earth. - -I liked this room so well I would fain have lingered, but I felt that -Mr. Andrews’s time was precious. - -The one next to this proved to be an attractive corner which in itself -was none other than a small art gallery. I recognized copies of a number -of the masterpieces, well chosen, and intended, presumably, to carry out -their mission of creating true admiration and appreciation of the -beautiful. Here too were books about art and artists. Neat portfolios -contained specimens, which were more than fair, of some of the efforts -of members of the household. There were also a few excellent pieces of -statuary. At one side, hidden by light drapery, was an exit to another -room of larger size in which I discovered was a small, but seemingly -very fine pipe organ. Encircled in suitable frames were portraits of -Bach, Haydn and Handel, renowned for their exquisite religious -compositions. There were also enlarged copies of details from Sargent’s -famous Frieze of the Prophets and Abbey’s Quest of the Holy Grail, while -an excellent reproduction of Correggio’s Holy Night with all its -appealing sweetness awoke in me renewed admiration for the picture. - -I felt instinctively that the purpose of this room was not only to give -opportunity for practice and pleasure to those whose musical ability lay -in this direction, but also, should any wish, to be used for sacred -service during Sunday hours or at other times. Turning to Mr. Andrews I -asked if my surmise was correct. - -“Yes,” he said, “often many of our older members feel unable to take the -long trip to church. Frequently, also, the younger people for some -reason are disinclined to go. Amid such surroundings, however, there is -opportunity for all to express their praise and thanksgiving.” - -Our way then led us to another room whose predominant coloring in -delicate greens, exquisite pictures, inviting books and graceful -furniture declared it to be indicative of spring with all her beauty of -leafing trees, budding blossoms, rippling waters released from winter’s -cold embrace and the time when all nature seems to have gained new life, -new strength, new inspiration. I think I liked this best. I could get -from it my conception of what our lives should be. Free from the -repelling cold of winter in our manner, in our thoughts and in our -hearts; free from the feeling of depression, lassitude and inactivity -accompanying hot summer days; free from the involuntary sense of sadness -and cheerlessness that sometimes comes to those who know the changes of -the seasons and in fall see the days glide by, now bright, now gloomy, -the leaves showing forth in all their autumn splendor before they gently -drop and die, and nature seems to have reached perfection only to wither -and decay. But spring carries the blessed thought of resurrection, of a -new life on earth and beyond, of hope and cheer, of inspiration to do -and to be what is best. So of all I proclaimed this my choice. - - “Spring, Spring, beautiful spring - Laden with glory and light you some; - With the leaf, the bloom, and the butterfly’s wing, - Making our earth a fairy home. - The primroses glitter—the violets peep; - And zephyr is feasting on flower and bloom. - Arouse, ye sluggards, what soul shall sleep - While the lark’s in the sky, and the bee’s on the palm? - The sweetest song, and the loudest string, - Should pour a welcome to beautiful Spring.” - -The beauty and restful peace of the entire place appealed to me so -strongly that I longed to ask permission to spend at least a part of my -vacation days there. The idea and wish growing stronger I turned to Mr. -Andrews and said, - -“Pardon the many questions with which I may possibly trouble you, and -also what may be an unusual request. Do you ever take as boarders or as -temporary members of the household, to do their share of duties here, -strangers who may chance to find this delightful place?” - -“Yes,” said Mr. Andrews, “we have had both, though we prefer the latter -for the reason that the visitor has better opportunity to study our -life, perhaps to make suggestions in lines of which we had not thought, -or to take our ideas with him or her, as the case may be, and sow the -good seed in other soil.” - -“I fear that I should have little chance to do any such work though I -should certainly try.” I answered. My inward thought was, however, that -perhaps it would be possible for me to remain long enough to get a -thorough understanding of their life, describe it in such manner and -give it to the world in such form that the excellent work might thus be -increased indirectly by my efforts. Aloud, I continued, - -“Would you be willing to take me as one or the other for a portion of my -leisure or for all? I could give some compensation and also share in -certain work.” - -“I think,” said Mr. Andrews, “that we can arrange it satisfactorily to -both parties and would suggest that you send immediately for anything -further that you may require.” - -“Thank you most sincerely,” I replied, “but in the meantime as we have -taken nearly all the morning in getting thus far and as you have -graciously permitted me to remain longer, shall I not excuse you, Mr. -Andrews, for those who have a greater claim on your time? I shall now -feel more or less free to roam at will in the rooms I have already seen -and do not wish to engage too much of the time of you good people.” - -“I _am_ a little surprised to find that it is so late,” he answered, -“still one can hardly skim over our model if he would know it in all its -details. There are some patients whom I must see, so I will leave you -for a while.” - -As he left me I turned to study more the grouping of the rooms we had -visited. They were on either side an elliptical shaped hallway that -terminated in a graceful entrance to the dining-room which was the full -width of the house at the rear. In the center of the hall was a most -ingeniously constructed fountain which served not only to beautify, but -also as a convenient place for drinking water for that floor. It -represented a miniature lake in which, indeed, sweet waterlilies -appeared to float. They proved to be, however, but fine enamel work in -colors so natural as to tempt one to gather the lilies as they lay -there. From the ewer in the right hand of the exquisitely carved figure -in the center, the water poured forth to the lake beneath, while in the -left hand another beautiful lily was upheld, completely hiding in its -cup a drinking-glass. - -I lingered here with admiring gaze. The incandescent lights above had -shades of green and white only, and I longed for evening to come when I -could see the fountain in its full beauty. The potted ferns arranged so -cleverly amid the large pieces of natural rock made the effect very -charming. On the previous evening, being somewhat fatigued and -enthralled by all that I had seen before entering the house, I had given -this delightful spot only a cursory glance and had not realized how -beautiful it was. - -Ascending the broad stairway I happened to meet Mrs. Chester and with -her had the pleasure of visiting several of the rooms and their -occupants. - -Among the first on whom we called was an elderly gentleman. There he sat -in his easy chair, looking bright and cheerful despite the gray clouds -without. Our introduction revealed the fact that I had known some of the -younger members of his family, but they were all gone, and he, the last, -had come to this haven of rest and peace. Though a little feeble, he was -able to get about, slowly but surely, with the younger people’s help, -and I was happy to see as his companion a young boy who had been sitting -there so quietly that we had hardly noticed him. - -“And who may you be,” I asked. - -“Well,” he said, “I call myself Mr. Lansing’s ‘chum,’ because we spend -so much time together, but my name is Ned Tompkins.” - -“So you are Mr. Lansing’s ‘chum.’ What do you mean by that?” I inquired. - -“It is this way,” he said, “when they found and brought me here six -years ago Mr. Lansing saw me and began to take particular interest in -me. Though they were all good his kindness seemed to touch the right -spot and was very welcome to a waif like me, for he seemed like a -grandpa would be to a boy if he had one, and I never knew how nice it -was to have a real grandpa, but used to imagine it lots of times. So -I’ve tried to be all I could to him and have grown to love him dearly, -and we are good comrades. Aren’t we, Mr. Lansing?” he broke off -abruptly. - -“That we are, my lad,” Mr. Lansing answered, “and very glad I am to have -you.” Turning to me he continued, “He makes the days go happily by for -me by bringing me the papers and reading (for my eyes don’t see just as -they used), and now and then we play checkers or the other games dear to -such old people as I, and days when I can’t get around so well, he never -forgets me up here.” - -“But you don’t tell,” interposed Ned, “all you do for me, how you have -taken the old books down in the library and explained things to me as I -have read, and how we have built bridges, cut out steamboats from paper -and wood, and had the most wonderful trains and locomotives, and how we -have played we were in different stations and telegraphed and -telephoned, and best of all how we made a tiny little elevator and ran -it with electricity by attaching a wire to the current. Why, we have had -the greatest fun you ever saw, and now I am getting so big and strong -that he can trust himself to me and I am very proud and happy.” And he -tried to hide the tears that would come, despite his being ‘big and -strong,’ because, I suppose, they were tears of joy like many of us -have, in that he was able to do something in return for the old -gentleman’s kindness. - -“Ned is a good boy,” said Mrs. Chester, “and every day we learn the -wisdom of our decision in taking the lad into our hearts and home.” The -kindly hand on the boy’s shoulder as she spoke these words and gentle -pat as we turned to go I know helped to keep warm his love and affection -for the dear good woman. - -“I am very glad to have seen you both,” I said, in parting, “and know -that we shall meet often, for I am going to be here too for a while, and -enjoy this happy home. But good morning to you now, I want to see more -of the people here.” - -As we left them I, as usual, immediately plied Mrs. Chester with many -questions. - -“The man is no longer young,” I said, “in what way does he contribute to -your home here, for of course, like all the rest, he prefers to do -something.” - -“In the first place,” replied Mrs. Chester, “his many fine attributes -and noble character are a lesson to each of us and an incentive to try -to become likewise. - - ‘He wears the marks of many years well spent, - Of virtue, truth well tried, and wise experience.’ - -Were there nothing else, it would be enough to have such a grand example -before us day after day to study. Beyond that, as you probably gathered -from what the boy said, Mr. Lansing is a fine scholar and can give of -his store of knowledge much for our benefit. Till his mind shall fail -utterly, we can draw from him in every way, and in any case, we shall -give of the love and kindness that fills our hearts for him. Ned is -indeed very glad that he is growing large, for when Mr. Lansing feels -too weak to attempt the long walk through the halls to meals, or out of -doors, he has a comfortable wheel-chair in which Ned not only rolls him -to the elevator to bring him downstairs, but takes him out in the open -air so that he has opportunity to enjoy with the rest of us all of God’s -precious gifts. He has but to ring his bell for anything wanted or to -share in whatever the hour may have in store, and we gladly serve him or -help him to join us. His prayers in our hours of religious service are -most helpful and beautiful, and not infrequently we hear his voice, -though weak, joining in our songs of praise and hymns of thanksgiving.” - -“You can not realize how all this thoughtfulness and unselfish -consideration for older people impresses me, but does Ned never tire of -Mr. Lansing’s company, or is it the old story of opposites having strong -attraction for each other?” I smilingly asked. - -“No,” replied Mrs. Chester, “Ned seems never too weary. On the contrary, -soon after his arrival he asked if he could not have a room near to Mr. -Lansing’s, which privilege we granted, and their constant and close -association has developed into a most loving relationship which is a -delight to us all.” - -“It is most fortunate,” I answered, “that this is true as it works in so -satisfactorily with your aims and purposes.” - -“It is but one more of the many things for which we have to be -thankful,” said Mrs. Chester in a tone of gratitude. - -During our conversation we had walked leisurely along the hall, which in -itself was as attractive as every other part of the home. Beautiful -pictures graced the walls and evidently these people did not believe in -confining flowers, books, newspapers or other literature to any -particular spot, for there were numerous plants in unexpected corners, -whose bright bloom and delicate fragrance charmed you to them, and -magazines and papers on tables or in racks tempted one to gather a bit -of knowledge while resting in one of the easy chairs conveniently at -hand. - -I glanced in the various chambers as we passed along and saw they were -being rapidly put in order. I wondered what sort of system could make -this part of the work run with almost clocklike precision, but when Mrs. -Chester told me that each who was able took care of her own rooms and -that the rest were looked after by voluntary choice and understanding -between the female constituency, I could quickly realize that with every -convenience at hand and willing, loving hearts, labor in all directions -for every one was as much pleasure as toil. - -“As for the men,” said Mrs. Chester in farther explanation, “those who -seem best fitted for certain lines of work are given opportunity to -carry out their tastes and efforts in that direction, varying it during -leisure moments with whatever diversion appeals to them or a different -kind of work, if they choose, which latter they very often do. But how -this plan works you will find out later. Let us stop here and visit for -a while,” she concluded, at the same time knocking at the door of -another chamber. - -A sweet voice bade us enter and on opening the door we found the -occupant to be, as I had supposed, a young woman of about twenty. She -was reclining against a bed-rest with comfortable pillows, but something -about her led me to think that she was a little helpless. - -“This is Miss Delancey,” said Mrs. Chester in introducing us and I came -close so as to cordially press the fragile hand extended in greeting. We -chatted a while, and then Mrs. Chester said that she would excuse -herself and leave me with Miss Delancey for a little visit. I quite -enjoyed the prospect of seeing something of the character of this young -lady. - -“Having found such an abundance of everything here to contribute to the -highest degree of health and happiness,” I said, “I think I hardly -expected to find any one who has not, seemingly, taken the elixir of -life and become proof against age or disease.” - -“No,” she answered, smiling a little, “here is one who must ever be -dependent on the kindness of others. Though with assistance I can -sometimes get from the bed to a chair, the spine is affected and there -is little hope of my ever recovering. Ofttimes I have nearly given up, -but with the cheer and comfort of all these kind people I feel that I -have still much for which to be thankful, and so have tried to find my -special corner in life and to fill it as best I can even though a -cripple. God has blessed me with all the senses, and when I realize the -value of these contrasted with the loss of sight, hearing, or the power -of speech, life has become almost dazzling with all that it holds out -for me. You see,” she broke off, “that if nothing else, I am ever -anxious to talk to a willing listener.” - -“And,” I added, “you certainly have a most willing one in me. I am only -too glad to hear that you may have to say, and am more than pleased that -you are inclined to talk so freely of yourself.” - -“Yes,” she continued, somewhat meditatively, “I have decided that if -there is anything in my enforced invalidism that can be turned into a -joy, I am resolved to make it so. But at first you don’t know how hard -it was not to feel envious, disheartened, cross and fretful, until, as I -have said, I suddenly woke up and found that there was much for my brain -and hands to do if only the heart gave them the right impulse. So the -good people here give me what I ask for, within reason, and I spend my -time thinking, planning and studying to give of whatever in myself is -worth the giving. Fortunately, Mr. Andrews being a doctor, insures for -me the best of care. Also, one of the ladies here has been and is a most -excellent trained nurse and is kindness itself to me. Her generous -consideration of my welfare, and constant help and attention are a boon -and solace to my heart. All women have their vanities and weaknesses you -know,” she jestingly concluded. - -“May I ask how you employ the hours to make the time slip by with other -than lagging footsteps?” - -“Certainly,” Miss Delancey answered. “Being a woman and an invalid I one -day bethought me of the many who were afflicted likewise, but not so -happily situated, and I immediately tried to think what I could do and -how I could do it to make the days less weary for them as, perhaps, they -too lay in bed, unable to be up and doing. So I have taken from various -magazines and papers attractive pictures and good literature, and from -these the younger unfortunates have made small books, not too heavy, -with carefully arranged pages of different colored muslins. It has been -a pleasure also to select a short piece of poetry and search for a -picture or two to illustrate it. Again, I have taken prose writings and, -having a little ability for sketching, have drawn on white muslin, -pictures which I thought might make the story more readable. I have made -a number of such books for old and young, sending them far and wide, and -many are the letters of thanks I have received and wept over, realizing -from their tone that the writers had little idea that the maker of the -books was herself a cripple. Then too, I can sew fairly well and knit, -so the variation resulting from these occupations, besides reading and -studying for my own benefit, has given me plenty of employment and -sometimes I almost forget that I can’t walk and dance as many of my age -like to do.” - -“Would that I could make you a sort of traveling object lesson in the -study of patience and submission,” I said, fearing not to give offense -by this remark, “for it seems to me that there are many persons blessed -with abundance of strength and health who could learn much from you and -make their own lives and the lives of those about them much happier. But -am I not staying too long, and, if you will pardon the question, may I -ask how you get your meals or join in the other activities of the -household?” - -“If you only knew how glad I am to have you,” she cordially responded, -“you would not ask if you were staying too long. But in reply to your -other question,” she continued, “it is easy enough. The lady whom I have -mentioned, Mrs. Marvin (and by the way I hope you will meet her and -learn more of her) seems never to forget me, and either comes herself or -sends some one else, if something specially interesting is going on -downstairs, and at meal times it rests with myself as to whether I shall -be taken down or eat up here. Another young lady of almost my own age -has the next room and next to hers is Mrs. Marvin’s chamber. Our rooms -open into a fourth which serves as a little individual sitting-room for -all three and this we have most cosily arranged. We can even have our -own musicales, for the young lady plays the guitar and I the mandolin, -and we have many pleasant hours with ourselves and any others who come -to spend their leisure with us. To hear the laughter and ripple of talk -that emanates from here would hardly lead one to think that such a poor -one as I was among the number.” - -As we were thus talking, a pleasant-faced woman entered the room after a -gentle rap, which must have been hers individually, because Miss -Delancey seemed to know who it was immediately. - -“I am so glad you came just now, Mrs. Marvin,” she said, “as I was -anxious that I, particularly, should have the pleasure of making you -acquainted with our new friend here, which I do gladly.” - -Mrs. Marvin’s gracious manners and genuine cordiality stamped her as the -sort of “spirit” one could never weary of, and I marveled not at Miss -Delancey’s affection for her. - -She impressed me as the sort of woman to whom one would feel free to go -for sympathy and advice and who could be relied on. Though she was not -young, you could see in the smile on her lips, the brightness of her -eyes, and the elasticity of her movements that she had taken life -aright,—growing into womanhood with all that maturity of years and -judgment means, yet not failing to remember that we can keep the heart -young and so carry with us, notwithstanding advancing years, the -beautiful attributes of noble womanhood, even as the rose in its full -bloom has yet all the sweet fragrance of the opening bud. - -Mrs. Marvin brought us to a realization that time was going and that the -next meal was about ready. Looking out I saw that though there was -hardly any sign of the early morning shower, save a diamond drop here -and there on the leaves and flowers, it was of course unwise to eat out -of doors, and concluded that we should have dinner, also, in the house. -As Miss Delancey had spoken of not always going downstairs, it occurred -to me to exercise my privilege of being a member of the family now, and -suggest that we three dine together. I therefore said, - -“If it would be agreeable to both of you, it would be a pleasure to me -to have our meal up here and I shall be only too glad to get it for us -if you will direct me how and where to go. I want to learn everything, -you know,” I concluded with a little laugh. - -“That would be very nice,” said Miss Delancey, “for me particularly, and -we shall endeavor to have sunshine within even if good old Sol does feel -like hiding his face a little today.” - -After receiving instructions from Mrs. Marvin I set out to perform my -task. She said I need bring only food, as she kept all the necessary -articles for setting the table in a closet in her own room. On reaching -the kitchen I found that it was quite the easiest thing in the world, -apparently, to carry our repast upstairs or anywhere else, for the -matter of that. I was given one of the specially arranged light -wheel-tables,[A] with its various spaces and hollows in which the dishes -sat snugly, without danger of upsetting and their contents being -spilled. I took some of everything prepared for the meal, and as I -worked, could look into the dining-room where the tables were being made -ready. Though all was activity, so thorough was the understanding -between each person that everything seemed to go on as smoothly as if it -were at all times the duty of one individual to do a certain part and -nothing more. I had almost forgotten that my two guests were perhaps -patiently waiting for my return, and hastily rolling the table into the -elevator I was taken up and soon had everything before my friends for -them to make further disposition thereof. - ------ - -Footnote A: - - In studying the economic gain from using, instead of a dumb-waiter, a - wheel-table or truck (provided of course one has the use of an - elevator) it seems to me that the greatest saving is in the matter of - steps, both in carrying and taking articles to and from a dumb-waiter. - A wheel-table can be rolled from point to point till everything has - been placed upon it. Food needing to be served hot has only to be put - in the dishes that are waiting for it, and the whole process to my - idea gives better satisfaction than the use of the dumb-waiter, except - insofar as the latter will always be convenient for economy of time - under certain circumstances too obvious to describe. - ------ - -I think that meal was a pleasant one to all three of us. The table so -invitingly arranged by Mrs. Marvin gave zest to our appetites, and the -quiet humor in many of her remarks together with Miss Delancey’s -sparkling conversation, made the time speed by rapidly. I was curious to -find out the former’s thoughts on women’s dressing and to how great a -degree the idea of simplicity was carried out in this establishment. - -“Well,” said Mrs. Marvin in answer to my spoken question, “having spent -some years in a hospital, naturally my ideas incline strongly to the -greatest simplicity in dress for various reasons, among the first of -which is freedom of movement, that all the organs and every part of the -body may be able to perform without effort those functions for which -they were intended.” - -I looked at her and frankly said, “If such is your belief and you carry -it out, you look neither like a dress reformist, nor yet a fashion-plate -figure. How is it that you are so successful in not attracting attention -as being either, and yet are such a fine example of a blending of both?” - -“Very easily,” replied Mrs. Marvin. “By careful study I have discovered -that if our sex will demand certain kinds of materials and sensible -fashions there is no question but that they will get both.” - -“First of all,” she continued, “I think you will concede that much of -the weakness, fretfulness, and constant worrying of women comes from the -fact that they suffer, through Fashion’s decree, irritation and -annoyance by wearing many useless things which are neither an addition -to their looks nor conducive to sweet tempers. When we have learned that -high collars cause headaches and affect the eyes, that tight shoes and -gloves prevent proper circulation, that the small wasp waist pushes -vital organs out of their proper positions, that trailing skirts carry -dust and dirt from place to place, even microbes of disease, and -finally, when we have become wiser by discarding all these things, then -we are on the high road to better health and better dispositions, which -in turn bring more contentment and courage to meet the _real_ trials and -vexations of life, and ought not this to result in more happiness for -ourselves and those coming in contact with us?” - -“I can not help agreeing with you,” I replied, “for there is nothing but -truth in all you have said. But tell me,” I laughingly said, “how large -your store of patience is to hope for such a complete reform as this.” - -“Well,” she replied, in the same light spirit, “if we here in this -household can set first class examples, at least _some_ steps will have -been taken, and after that we can only live in hope. Another thing we -have to learn, I think, is that almost one quarter of the life of woman -is spent in making garments look fresh and beautiful, only to be soiled -and wrinkled in a short while. As for myself, had I not discovered that -such articles were obtainable on the market, I think I should have -studied the manufacture of wearing materials that I might produce goods -for both men and women that would stand all the washing, rubbing, soap -and water that one might choose to give them, but would require none of -the time, patience and strength to press into smoothness which is placed -on the numerous pieces of clothing usually in our wardrobes.” - -“Don’t think,” she continued a little banteringly, “that I do not -believe in the utmost cleanliness, or in that daintiness which is -peculiarly feminine, but I have come to know that we can have both, yet -can save three-fourths and more of the energy that is spent by others or -ourselves on pieces of clothing which, specially is stiffly starched, -make one decidedly uncomfortable, or announce the coming of the wearer -by much rustling. I think, however, that everything that is washable -should, as nearly as possible, be made of material that will save the -labor of hours in making perfectly smooth, only to be crumpled into -innumerable wrinkles almost in a moment’s use. Have your laces, have -your ribbons full and plenty, but have everything plain and dainty, easy -to put on and always attractive by its freshness and simplicity.” - -“Your scheme would put out of existence part, at least, of a certain -means of livelihood to a number of people. However, since you give them -plenty to do in the way of washing I presume they may hope not to -starve,” I said jestingly. - -“I feel quite sure on that point,” said Mrs. Marvin. “Here you will see -how easily we manage it and how much comfort every one takes, and yet I -think you will admit unhesitatingly that we are all satisfactory to -behold and some even more. I should consider that quite a few of our -ladies are very attractive. With unanimous consent to have everything -made as simple in style as possible, labor along the line of laundry -work is considerably reduced. Among our friends here are some who have -made this their business in life, as there are also others who have -perfected themselves in entirely different lines, and with their -knowledge and skill in management, constant study how to improve and -make the work easier, together with the help of others, _that_ part of -our home life has its bright sides also. Extravagant and useless waste -of fresh linen is avoided as much as possible. Therefore it is not -uncommon to find Mrs. Mann, who has direct supervision of the laundry, -ready to join any of us in our hours of discussion or practice of some -new music. She has a most delightful alto voice which is enjoyed not -only by those here, but by our many friends who chance to come in or are -invited to anything special going on.” - -“Well,” said I, “you certainly have the happy faculty of making every -side of life interesting, and what a satisfaction it must be.” - -We had long since finished eating and had been so engrossed in -conversation that I came very near neglecting my new duties, and -laughingly said I should receive a “black” mark for interrupting their -clocklike precision. I quickly gathered those dishes together which were -to be transported to the kitchen and then assisted in putting the room -in order. Miss Delancey looked as if she had enjoyed the hour and -commenced crocheting on the beautiful soft shawl she was making for one -of the elder ladies, and then Mrs. Marvin went to her own chamber. - -Not long after this quiet reigned supreme and I concluded that the -restful hour, so much appreciated by all, had come and almost wished I -could peep about to see the individual inclination of each one. I was a -little curious to know how many there were who took the time for sleep. -This, however, was out of the question, so I contented myself by seeking -a book and a corner in the library, there to think and read. - -Much to my surprise, on looking at my watch later, I discovered that I -too must have succumbed to the soothing influence about the home, for it -was quite an hour and a half since I had sought my quiet nook. Through -the open window near by came the sweet perfume of the flowers which -lured me out to enjoy the fragrant air before night again cast its -shadows around us. Having been given permission to investigate -everything, I felt free to wander where I would and so started for the -principal gardens. They covered quite a vast territory and besides -flowers of all kinds, whose beauty and luxury were a joy to behold, I -felt quite a strong admiration for the various vegetables which thrived -and grew so well under the care and watchful eye of Mr. Whitehurst. - -It was growing late, however, so it was hardly wise to go very far, and -then it occurred to me that I should find more of the household busy out -here in the morning than at twilight, so concluding to make a visit some -other time I sauntered toward the house. Supper had been prepared and, -as on the evening before, we again had the pleasure of eating out of -doors. - -“Well,” said a gentle voice behind me, which I recognized as Mrs. -Chester’s, “where have you been and how have you enjoyed yourself -today?” - -“Very delightfully, Mrs. Chester,” I replied. “Every hour has been so -full that they have seemed to fly by and I have been very happy.” - -“It is Saturday,” Mrs. Chester said as we seated ourselves at one of the -tables, “and I am glad that you chance to be here. We have very pleasant -times on Saturday evenings and I hope you will enjoy this one. Tonight I -believe there is an unusual list of attractions, if I may put it that -way. You seem so keenly interested in electricity that perhaps you will -enjoy the meeting of the ‘Magnets,’ otherwise known as one branch of the -club studying electricity. The other has taken the name ‘Electrodes.’ Of -course as we have such a large amount of machinery here it is the one -portion of our work that requires constant supervision. Consequently, -there are groups on and off, and for safety and the best possible -management it was necessary in this particular branch to hire an expert -outright. But he, too, has fallen into the spirit which reigns and has -an intelligent corps of able assistants who share with pleasure the -responsibility, as well as the diversion which comes in their hours of -leisure. It goes without saying that this part of our work runs very -smoothly. But to return to the club. It is in two sections as I have -said, which meet on alternate weeks. Both have interesting meetings and -there is a pleasant rivalry between them. They often manage so that -members of each can attend the meeting of the other section and we all -follow their studies and progress with much interest.” - -“Though decidedly uninformed on this subject,” said I, “I am yet deeply -interested in it and shall without doubt enjoy spending some time with -them. But tell me, how do you all know what is going on?” - -“Very easily,” she replied. “There is placed on the bulletin boards for -the benefit of all of us, programs of the various club meetings with -their dates. If there is an agreement between the musical people to have -something in that line, a statement is posted of that. Or, if a purely -social hour is arranged for dancing or games, notice of that is given so -that each person has a chance to follow his or her own taste.” - -“A dance is arranged for tonight,” she continued, “and if you like that -sort of pleasure you can possibly divide up your time so as to share in -that also.” - -“I am quite feminine,” I answered, as we arose from the table, “and -enjoy as much as the very youngest the witchery of rhythmic music, a -smooth floor, and a partner whose perfect step makes the whole a most -exquisite delight.” - - - THE END - - - NOTE.—The author of this splendid piece of literary work - calls to the attention of its readers the hope that here - and there a thought may be culled which will serve as a - working-basis for one or another of its readers. In this - case I feel that the careful reader will be benefited - and this little book may go forth and be of use to the - world. - - Yours very truly, - JNO. W. THOMPSON. - - ------ - - - - - ---------------------------------------------------------------- - - Transcriber’s Note: - - ● The errors deemed most likely to be the printer’s have - been corrected, and are noted here. - ● Where hyphenation occurs on a line break, the decision to - retain or remove is based on occurrences elsewhere in the - text. - ● One word was spelled inconsistently (dining-room - diningroom) and has been changed to one format - (dining-room). - ● Errors in punctuation and quotes have been silently - restored. - ● Illustrations were moved to the start of this e-text. - ● The footnote was moved to immediately after the - corresponding paragraph. - ● The numbers below reference the page and line in the - original book. - - - reference correction original text - 15.12 dining-room bedrooms, diningroom, kitchens, - 26.1 dining-room diningroom. Going through the hall - 28.8 dining-room we had reached the diningroom - 28.21 dining-rooms both our diningrooms. - 36.7 Samothrace “Winged Victory of Samathrace” - 41.18 dining-room the tables in the diningroom - 53.26 elliptical on either side an eliptical - 61.1 Lansing a room near to Mr. Lansings’s - 67.11 occupations resulting from these occupapations - 80.5 surprise Much to my surpise - 83.11 working-basis serve as a working basis for - - ---------------------------------------------------------------- - -*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK IDEALIA, A UTOPIAN DREAM *** - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the -United States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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