In the first place, bear in mind always, in purchasing, that it is cheaper in the end to buy _the best_, and in no one article is this so manifest as in flour. Get the best in market, even if you pay an extra price, and notice the _brand_. Try the flour faithfully, and if it proves satisfactory, “make a note of it,” and continue to furnish yourself with that kind, unless, after a few times, you find it deteriorates. Good flour will adhere, slightly pressed together in the hand; and when you unclasp your hand, the _lines_ in the palm will be plainly seen on the flour you have held so tightly. Dough from good flour will not be a clear, blue white, but yellowish, and, when well kneaded, will not stick to the hand. We should have said, in the first place, by inquiries and observation secure a good, honest, reliable grocer,--one who will truly endeavor to serve you with the best; having satisfied yourself that you can trust him, you will find his judgment will assist you out of many uncertainties, until you have, by experience, learned to trust your own. The same rule for buying holds good of all groceries. _Buy the best._ You will save money and insure comfort by it. There is no more economy in buying cheap sugar than cheap flour. A barrel of pure, clear, granulated sugar will last longer, and in the end be cheaper, than any of the coffee or brown sugars. Before collecting your materials for making cake or pies, see that your stove or range is in good order; the grate shaken free from ashes; all the fuel needed for the cooking added and burning clear. Be careful that no doors or windows are opened, so that the air will blow across the stove. No oven can bake well if this is not prevented, or if the sun shines across it. We all know that if this happens, the coal will soon look whitish, instead of burning clear and lively.