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1. The size or the shape of the aquarium is a mat- 

 ter of taste. The oblongs are more beautiful, perhaps, 

 but they are also much more expensive, a medium size 

 costing from two to three dollars. A cylindrical vessel 

 holding five gallons, worth about a dollar and a quarter, 

 would be an excellent choice. 



2. The sand must be thoroughly cleaned by repeated 

 washings. There should be two inches of sand covering 

 the bottom of a five-gallon tank, for Avhich also two 

 bunches of Cabomba or Myriophyllum will be sufficient 

 plants. 



3. The lead should be removed from the plants, and 

 the leaves broken from the stem for an inch from the 

 base. Plant securely in the sand, preferably in the tAvo 

 rear corners. 



4. Cold, clear water should be poured into the aqua- 

 rium. Neither plants nor sand will be disturbed if the 

 force of the falling water is broken by letting it fall first 

 over the hand. 



5. The aquarium should be permanently placed where 

 it gets, if possible, good northern light. In a few days 

 the water will be crystal clear, thoroughly aerated, ready 

 for the animals. 



6. Healthy American gold and silver fish cost a little 

 more, but they are much hardier than the German fish, 



