And for the large proportion of receipts, directions were so vague that only a trained housekeeper could be certain of the order of combination, or results when combined.

So from the crowd of authorities was gradually eliminated a foundation for work; and on that foundation has risen a structure designed to serve two ends.
For the young housekeeper, beginning with little or no knowledge, but eager to do and know the right thing, not alone for kitchen but for the home as a whole, the list of topics touched upon in Part I.became essential.

That much of the knowledge compressed there should have been gained at home, is at once admitted: but, unfortunately, few homes give it; and the aim has been to cover the ground concisely yet clearly and attractively.

As to Part II., it does not profess to be the whole art of cooking, but merely the line of receipts most needed in the average family, North or South.

Each receipt has been tested personally by the writer, often many times; and each one is given so minutely that failure is well-nigh impossible, if the directions are intelligently followed.