A barrel makes a good protection for a hen with a brood of chicks, if it is arranged as shown in the sketch. Procure a good barrel with a bottom and cut off each alternate stave at both ends close up to the first hoop. The lower openings thus formed make entrances for the chickens and the upper ones admit air and light.—Contributed by Wm. R. Konnan, Neillsville, Wis.
Preventing Mildew on Canvas
To prevent mildew on canvas, soak it in bluestone water, or if the mildew is already present, coat the parts well with ordinary soap and rub on powdered chalk, or whiting. A solution of corrosive sublimate, well weakened with water, will also prevent mildew, but owing to its poisonous nature it is best to use the former method.—Contributed by A. Ashmund Kelly, Malvern, Pa.
When the steel point of a compass is lost, a phonograph needle makes a good substitute.
Holder for Books in a Case
Very often it is found, after arranging the books in a case, that the rows are not complete and the books at the end are continually sliding down on the shelf. The sketch shows a very useful type of wire bracket to support the last book.
The Shape of the Wire Makes It Easily Applicable to Any Open Bookshelf
A brass wire, 26 in. long and about 1/8 in. in diameter, is bent, with the use of a vise or pliers, to the shape and dimensions shown at A. When the wire is placed on the bookshelf, as shown at B, it prevents the end book from falling. Its location can be changed as books are added to the shelf.—Contributed by John Y. Dunlop, Craighead, Scotland.