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The Cornell Reading-Courses 



sustained impression. As we enter a room, we should seem to be infolded 

 in an atmosphere of cheer, comfort, repose, and freedom. No single 

 object nor surface should intrude itself on our immediate notice; later, 

 when we have sunk contentedly into the spirit of the place, we may notice 

 at leisure the various objects and ideas that have united to give us this 

 pleasing impression. In a similarway persons impress us as being charming, 

 cordial, earnest; later we notice that they have fine eyes, soft hair, and 

 other attractive features. 



This spirit of the interior of the house is as vital as the spirit of a person. 



Fig, 2. — "A simple united effect is the first qtiality to be desired for interiors" 



It must be a simple, sterling expression of the life within; otherwise it is 

 a mere chaos of wood and textile. Says Lowell : 



" Roots, wood, bark and leaves, singly perfect may be, 

 But clapt hodge-podge together, they don't make a tree." 



THE WALLS 



Since the walls, ceiling, and floor of a room present greater surface than 

 any of the furnishings, they require first attention. It is chiefly on the 



