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its tiny life for its scarlet dye — the roots, barks, lichens 

 give beautiful coloring, and "in our grandmother's days'' 

 were utilized. Erect, thrifty dames of the colonial period 

 cut, with mathematical precision, their "squares '' of patch- 

 work with which they fashioned their marvel (ms quilts 

 of intricate " Log Cabin " or "White House Steps," 

 staid little maidens who, despite finger pricks and tear- 

 bedewed faces have, at last, pieced a quilt, and with what 

 contempt was regarded the " ne'er do weel " who had no 

 ambitions. Looms have produced the richest stuffs, needles 

 clicked, needles creaked with the stitchery brought upon 

 them. And has not the faculty of these ancient grand- 

 mothers descended upon the women of to-day ? We trust 

 so, and to the products of our Essex County add greatly. 

 Those who witnessed the display at the Agricultural Fair, 

 where there was a large collection hung around the hall, 

 like so many flaunting, royal banners, would say it was not 

 a " lost art.'' Counterpanes of the dear beloved patchwork 

 were there, the " crazy quilt, " the evolution of the older 

 album quilt, irregular bits of silk, satin, velvet, joined by 

 ornamental stitches, hand-painted, lace adorned — what 

 more kaleidoscopic in coloring ! Afghans crocheted in 

 brilliant wools or modest soft shades, how could it be an 

 easy task for the committee to select those pre-eminently 

 beautiful ? One of scarlet satin and ecru pongee silk was 

 so artistic in its simple harmony of tints that it was 

 awarded the first premium, while the second was secured 

 by the maker of one of Glasgow linen thread of yellowish 

 tint ; some sixty spools were required in its crocheting.. 

 The evenness of the work, the beauty of the pattern made 

 it incredibly pretty. Still another, displayed over a lin- 

 ing of pink was very lace-like in eflfect, and received much 

 praise. Seeing so much to approve, the committee had 

 expended the sum allowed for premiums and gratuities, 

 very disconsolately had to retrace steps and pass by many 

 a deserving quilt. Those whose work was unrecognized 

 by a conspicuous card may rest assured that it was not 



