You will observe that the word is “value” not “cost”; but she omits to state that the value put upon them is that given to them by herself, and, curiously enough, she is offering a similar sacrifice every day in the year. I do not suggest that there is any swindle in the above style of advertisement. It is a trick of the trade, and if you are sharp enough you will find that the same “lady” is offering other articles for sale also at a sacrifice in another part of the paper. The fact also that nearly all these articles are advertised as “unused” ought to be sufficient to warn people that it is a dealer and not a private individual who is advertising; but people, especially ladies, my dear Dorothy, are so anxious to make a bargain that they cannot resist the temptation to purchase an article, with a fictitious value attached to it, at half price. A similar article, if bought at a shop in the ordinary way, costs less and lasts longer; but then it would not profess to be a bargain--wherein lies the charm. I am afraid that I cannot give you any comfort as regards the bill sent in by your stationer, whom you say you have already paid. If you cannot find or did not get a receipt from him you are powerless and will have to pay it over again. When tradespeople know your name and address, it is always advisable to ask for a receipt if they do not offer to give you one. Even when dealing with shops which profess to sell on cash terms only, I always make a point of asking for a receipt if the goods are to be sent to my address; and, for the future, I advise you to follow the example of Your affectionate cousin, BOB BRIEFLESS. OLD ENGLISH COTTAGE HOMES; OR, VILLAGE ARCHITECTURE OF BYGONE DAYS. [Illustration: COTTAGE AT PINNER.] PART IV.