 The problem as to how we may most acceptably, and at the same
time most wisely, make a choice of Christmas gifts for our
servants, is ever a perplexing one. This need hardly be so if
(given efficient servants) we make a study of their individual
needs and tastes. An effort on the part of the mistress to make
their surroundings not only comfortable, but attractive, can
hardly fail to win from them in return better service and a
desire to please, and little differences arising will be less
likely to end in dissensions.
If, after the trying cares and duties of the day, an attractive
room awaits them, much of irritable discomfort will vanish;
therefore, add little adornments to their rooms. A pretty
work-basket, or small writing desk well stocked, a pair of warm
bedroom slippers, a bright shade for the sewing lamp, a soft
cushion or headrest for the rocking chair, and, if a taste has
been discovered for reading, a small bookcase for the wall, and
some suitable books. Little additions to the bureau -- a pair of
decorated linen covers to be used alternately, a pretty pin or
hair pin cushion, a brush and comb case, or a whisk with
ornamental holder. As incentives to tidy habits -- a linen
laundry, shoe or duster bag, an umbrella pocket or an ornamental
scrap basket -- for the servant who has no pride in her
surroundings is more liable to be careless, and less likely to
spend much of her leisure time in her room. Servants, as a rule,
feel complimented at any endeavor on the part of the mistress to
make a useful gift also an ornamental one. They gain in self
respect, and prize accordingly any article needed that is wholly
beyond their means, time or ability to supply.
In our thoughts for the cook, it would be wise to discover her
imperative needs. A warm wrapper, or any garment ready made, a
set of aprons both ornamental and useful, can hardly fail to
please, while a purse containing money always proves the right
thing at the right time. The mistress who gives little or no
thought to the personal needs and comforts of her servants,
aside from providing them with the bare necessities, will
usually be found lamenting their careless ways, their lack of
pride and self respect and the indifferent compulsory service
they render in return.
The endeavor to please and make these members of our households
contented and happy will be productive of good results with the
majority, a few cases to the contrary notwithstanding; and as
the Christmas season is a time of pretty things, be sure that
their gifts are attractive.
[Image:
Library of Congress, LC-USZ62-100205] |
