THERE is expressed from the grapes that ripen on the sunny slopes of Aÿ a wine called Fine Fleur d’Aÿ blanc—Fine Flower of white Aÿ—a sparkling, golden, perfumed nectar, to sip of which is an exhilaration.
In every ideal home there exists an essence that likewise diffuses its fragrance—the fine flower of noble womanhood, without which the house is a habitation, not a home.
Alone under the ministering care of woman may the routine of daily life be relieved and varied, and the course of the household made to flow free from friction and asperity. Caressed by her gentle touch, order ranges itself, beauty finds a dwelling-place, and peace enters as an abiding guest. Pre-eminently it is woman that idealizes the home, and, with her sweet, refining presence, mingled with the joyous laugh of children, creates its atmosphere of serenity and content.
To the gentler sex, therefore—to the old and to the young, to the dark and to the fair, to all who woo for us the sunshine of the home—a health in the Fine Flower of Aÿ!
CONTENTS.
| PAGE | ||
| Epistle Dedicatory | [3] | |
| Prologue | [7] | |
| I. | The Perfect House | [9] |
| II. | Old Oriental Masters | [29] |
| III. | Signs in the Sky | [46] |
| IV. | The Ideal Haven | [64] |
| V. | When Leaves Grow Sere | [86] |
| VI. | Decorative Decorations | [105] |
| VII. | My Study Windows | [119] |
| VIII. | My Indoor Garden | [143] |
| IX. | A Blue-Violet Salad | [170] |
| X. | Footsteps of Spring | [187] |
| XI. | Magicians of the Shelves—I | [205] |
| XII. | Magicians of the Shelves—II | [225] |
| XIII. | Authors and Readers | [250] |
| XIV. | The Pageant of the Immortals | [272] |
| Epilogue | [285] |