Where the laundresses are mothers of families, as is often the case, this point is worth mentioning at the time of engagement. Their washing must be done—the question is, when and where. It is better to have a plain understanding about the matter than to have them attempt a course of deception. Feed the laundresses well and arrange for them to make a cup of tea or coffee between meals if they want it. The work is hard and exhausting, and they cannot put their best into it if they are hungry. Take an interest in their health and see that their minor ailments are attended to when necessary. Arrange for an afternoon off at least once in two weeks. They have little matters of business to attend to, and they need the recreation as much as other people. Arrange to visit the laundry at least every day—twice a day if possible, and not always at the same hour. Commend their work and their promptness when there is room for it. A word of appreciation will often do more to inspire them to better service than a severe rebuke. When they have worked overtime in some unusual rush, do not forget to mention your appreciation of it. Then see that they have proper things to work with. It is impossible to have satisfactory service if proper facilities are not provided. [Sidenote: Starching] The housekeeper, where no manager of the laundry is employed, will have the purchasing and giving out of supplies and should have an idea of how much is needed for each week’s work. Provide a good quality of soap and starch. The cheaper grades are almost always more expensive owing to the additional amount necessary for the work. The better grade of starch will produce better finished work. See that the vessels used for starching are well cleansed after use. Know something about the methods used in starching. If collars, cuffs and belts are not stiff, inquire the reason. To produce a proper stiffness, the starch should be used as hot as can be borne by the hand, and well rubbed in. Clothing that is starched should be put to dry as soon as the starching is completed. If left around in baskets the articles will inevitably come out discolored. It is well to give a list of the articles requiring starching rather than trust to their judgment. Aprons and coats for the operating room that are to be put in the sterilizer need no starching, while other aprons and coats must be starched. They will not know the difference if they are not told. [Sidenote: Bluing]