If all must be dumped together, a regular ash-sifter will be required, placed over a barrel which receives the ashes, while the cinders remain, and are to be treated as described.
Into the grate put shavings or paper, or the fat pine known as lightwood.
If the latter be used, paper is unnecessary.

Lay on some small sticks of wood, _crossing them_ so that there may be a draught through them; add then one or two sticks of hard wood, and set the shavings or paper on fire, seeing that every draught is open.

As soon as the wood is well on fire, cover with about six inches of coal, the smaller, or nut-coal, being always best for stove use.

When the coal is burning brightly, shut up all the dampers save the slide in front of the grate, and you will have a fire which will last, without poking or touching in any way, four hours.

Even if a little more heat is needed for ovens, and you open the draughts, this rule still holds good.
Never, for any reason, allow the coal to come above the edge of the fire-box or lining.