LETTER XVII.
On setting tables. Washing and ironing, and other house work.
My Friends:
Those who are good housekeepers are generally very desirous to have their tables set neatly, and in a proper manner. Few things are more annoying to such persons, than to see the table set askew, the table cloth tumbled and put on awry, the knives, tumblers, plates, and dishes put on without any order; the pitchers soiled outside and in, the butter pitched on the plate without any care, the bread cut with a mixture of junks and thin slices and thrown on the plate carelessly, and all other matters in similar disorder. Nothing will give more satisfaction to employers than carefulness and order in this particular. The following rules will serve as a guide in this duty.
Rules for setting Tables.
1. Lay the table rug square with the room; the right side up, and smooth and even.
2. Set the table square with the room, and see that the leaves and legs are properly fixed, so that all will stand firm, and then put on the table cloth smooth and even, so that the creases will run straight across the table.