THE FARM HOME 315 



One of the best ways to dispose of these wastes, as well as 

 of those from the % kitchen, is by the use of a septic tank. 

 Sewage disposal by this means is based upon the action of 

 bacteria on the organic matter which always forms a con- 

 siderable part of household wastes. A simple form of septic 

 tank consists of two water-tight, underground chambers; 

 the first to retain solid matter and scum until they are dis- 

 solved, the second to receive liquids from the first chamber 

 and discharge them at intervals by means of a siphon. 



A complete outfit including cement tank, vitrified tile set 

 with closed joints to convey material to the tank, and porous 

 tile set with open joints to conduct the liquids away from 

 the tank, may be installed at a moderate cost. 



Making the home attractive. A home should afford 

 pleasure to its occupants. First of all, as already considered, 

 it should be made comfortable in such essentials as heat, 

 light, and water. Next, it should be made attractive, both 

 as to the house and its setting and the interior and furnish- 

 ings of the house. 



The site of the farm home is often selected solely because 

 of its convenience. Although convenience, with respect to 

 accessibility to the farm and to the public highway, is im- 

 portant, the healthfulness and attractiveness of the site 

 should receive equal consideration. For sanitary reasons 

 the building site . should first of all be well drained. Situ- 

 ations somewhat higher than surrounding areas are better 

 drained than those that are low or level. Such a situation 

 also makes an attractive setting for the home. It enables 

 the house and its surroundings to stand out prominently and 

 affords distant views, revealing whatever beauty there may 

 be in the surrounding landscape. 



A well-chosen site is only one part of the setting of the 



