One of the principal objects of the mistress of the house is, the economy or management of the _table_, the general display of which will evince her judgment and taste; and this will be shown, not so much by the profusion with which the table is covered, as by its _neat and pleasing appearance_, according to the present fashion, so far as regards elegance, combined with frugality,—the circumstances of fortune and condition being also considered.—People in business should not imitate the pomp and splendour of high rank, nor should those of the higher circles descend to such frugal arrangements as in them would appear to be parsimonious. The prudent manager will consider the _number_ of her guests, and consult their appetites, rather than feast their _eyes_; thus will she be enabled to entertain them _much oftener_, and _much better_, at the same expense. It is well understood that the mistress of a family should have, at least, a competent knowledge in the art of carving, not only as it enables her to do _the honours of the table_ with propriety, but with a view to frugality also; and if the young ladies of a family were to practise, under the direction of their mother, when there is no company, they would, in time, become quite _au fait_ to this graceful and elegant accomplishment; as much practice is required to make a good carver, even when the theory has been previously acquired. (_See Instructions for Carving_, under the head HOUSEKEEPER.) An esteemed writer of the present day, has introduced to public view, a pleasing picture of a small and well-regulated family, of which the following is a slight sketch:— “The mistress of the family is a good manager, without any ostentatious display of it.—Elegantly nice, without being a slave to dress or furniture—Easy and affable with her servants, but firm in her commands,—every one appearing to be contented and happy.—The household business going on regularly, like a good clock;—and every thing being kept in its proper place. No scolding in the kitchen or servants’-hall.—The table plentifully covered, but not with incitements to luxury; the food plain and in season, and sent up well dressed;—with a few well chosen luxuries introduced, when company is asked.” Ladies, whose minds are framed for the practical enjoyment of domestic comforts, will admire and copy this beautiful picture! ADVICE TO SERVANTS IN GENERAL. ————