Some people who own solid small silver lock it up except upon rare occasions, and use only plated ware when en famille, affirming that the peace of mind thus gained is worth more than the luxury of using real silver. In this matter every one must judge for herself; but if a vote were taken the chances are that those who use the solid silver would testify that its care costs them very little time or thought. The simple expedient of counting it two or three times a week is generally sufficient to insure its safety, and the duty of carrying it up-stairs at night is too trifling to deserve mention.

Those who have ever been so fortunate as to possess plated silver vegetable dishes or a soup tureen would never willingly use those of china. Not only do the silver vessels keep their contents hot, but they are not breakable, and a dent may be remedied at a small cost. They are not hard to keep clean. A plunge into clean scalding water, and a quick wiping afterwards, whenever they have been used, with an occasional rubbing with a piece of flannel or chamois-skin, will generally keep them bright.

Whenever silver, solid or plated, needs a thorough cleaning, electro-silicon may be used; and after the scouring has been done with a brush dipped in the powder, the pieces should be rinsed off in scalding water containing a little ammonia, and well rubbed with flannel. Even the most tarnished silver may be brightened by this means.


INDEX

THE END.


BOOKS FOR THE HOUSEHOLD.