But in the house-cleaning--oh, dear! Like the dove from the ark, a man finds no place where he can rest the sole of his foot.

Twice a year, regularly, have I to pass through this trying ordeal, _willy-nilly,_ as it is said, in some strange language.

To rebel is useless.

To grumble of no avail.

Up come the carpets, topsyturvy goes the furniture, and _swash!_ goes the water from garret to cellar.