It would be possible; but the loss of heat would be so great, that a much larger quantity of paper and wood would be required.
302. Why does a poker laid across the top of a dull fire revive it?
Because the poker radiates the heat it receives from the fire downward upon the fuel.
Because, also, it divides the ascending air, and thereby creates currents.
The amount of good which the poker does to the fire is very slight indeed. Generally, the housewife stirs the fire first, and blows or brushes away the ashes that prevent the influx of air. She then places the poker upon the top, and the popular mind supposes that the poker "draws" the fire. The custom of placing a poker over the fire is of very remote antiquity. It was once believed that forming a cross, by placing the poker over the bars, protected the fire from the hostility of malignant witches!
303. Why should fire-places be fixed as low as possible in rooms?
Because heat ascends, and when the fire-places are high the lower parts of the room are inadequately warmed. Also, as currents of air fly towards the fire, elevated fire-places cause drafts about the persons of the inmates to a much greater extent than they would if they were lower down.
"Unto thee, O God, do we give thanks: for that thy name is near thy wondrous works declare."—Psalm lxxv.