The Building of the Nest 



not the sunshine and the storms, the 

 song birds and the stars; and have 

 we not within the black swans with 

 their wings of fire, the friendly old 

 four-posted clock and books that live 

 through all the generations ? 



I had told the architect first of all 

 to build for us a good big generous 

 fireplace with a chimney that would 

 not fail to draw; and then put walls 

 around it surmounted by a wide, low 

 roof with overhanging eaves. You 

 will see the point. I wanted to hear in 

 comfort by' the fire the rain drops 

 dripping all around outside. But if 

 you are ever called upon, as I was 

 after the little patch of woodland in 

 the rough was bought, to plan the 

 house intended for a snug retreat from 

 city sights and sounds, do not make 

 this one mistake. Let the women-folk 

 in on it early. If you don't you will 

 have to do so at some little extra cost 

 later on, as I did. They know a lot 

 more than you do — or they think 



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