To illustrate the fact that the more civilization increases the enjoyments and refinements of the family state, the more it multiplies the responsibilities and cares of a mother and housekeeper, I will reproduce a specimen of such conversations as I have repeatedly had with familiar friends. The lady introduced, is a mother of five young children all attending some primary, or some higher schools, and in reply to her remark that she had no time for solid or systematic reading, I enquired,
"How many servants have you?"
"Three; a cook, a chambermaid, and a boy for errands and care of yard and garden."
"Now suppose," said I, "that you give me an outline of your ordinary daily routine, that I may appreciate your difficulties; for I think few understand how much is demanded of mother and housekeeper in these days. At what hour do you rise?"
"Usually about seven; and then beside dressing myself, I must see that the little ones are washed and dressed properly, as all the servants are busy. Their hair must be combed and braided, their teeth and nails in order, and their clothing be all whole
and clean for school, which often demands an extra stitch, or some change that I must regulate. This takes till near breakfast hour, when I go down to see that all is right on the table and in the kitchen. When I have a good cook, and second girl, I have not much to do; but the frequent changes oblige me often to be training, or overseeing one or the other. Then at table, I serve the tea and coffee, and also take care of the two youngest, to supply proper food, and see that they behave properly."
"Cannot your husband take some of this care."
"Oh, no; he is so hurried in business and so anxious to get off as soon as possible.
"Then we have prayers, and I must collect all the family, and see that all the children behave properly. Then I make a memorandum of errands or purchases for my husband to execute. Then I must see that all the children are prepared for school, their books all collected, their hair dressed, and shoes in order, and all their little wants supplied.
"Then I go to the kitchen and make arrangements with the cook for the day, giving written