RENOVATING AND IMPROVING OLD HOMES. 105 



are more or less ornamental in character. The exposed 

 view of a neat, comfortable stable is not objectionable, as 

 it may be so arranged as to give the air of substantial com- 

 fort and extent to the grounds not to be found where only 

 the house is in view. 



Improperly Located Walks and Drives. 



One of the most frequent faults to be found on an old 

 place is improperly located walks and drives. 



The proper location of these necessities of comfort is of 

 the greatest importance, and the reader is referred to 

 Chapter VI, where the matter is more fully discussed. 



It must be borne in mind in the construction of roads 

 and walks under all circumstances that a good road cannot 

 be made no matter what the material used unless the road- 

 led is thoroughly under drained, and the surface of the road 

 or walk must have more or less curve or slope toward the 

 sides to carry off the surface-water. The finer and poorer 

 the material used, the greater this curve must be. 



Wherever it is possible one or more lines of tile should 

 be placed under the road-bed, at least three feet deep, with 

 a good fall and free outlet for drainage. 



The extent of the walks and drives should be limited to 

 the actual needs of the place. The fewer the gravelled 

 walks or roads the better; yet a place without at least a 

 walk up to the front door, or a smooth drive to the stable, 

 would look inhospitable or almost uninhabited. 



While there is no beauty in walks and drives in them- 

 selves, yet if well laid out in graceful curves just where they 

 are needed, and are well cared for, the variety they afford 

 and the air of comfort and the inviting hospitality they give 



