The thought that so often the state is one of hatred, or, at best, tolerance, makes the position of all concerned strained and delicate.

To many a mother the term "mother-in-law" is a much-dreaded appellation.

A woman upon whom this doubtful honor has recently been laid, said to me: "I hope my boy will never set his wife against me by asking her to 'do things as his mother did.' I shudder to think of it.

I want him to tell her that the mince and pumpkin pies, biscuits, muffins, and even gingerbread, made by his wife are vastly superior to any ever produced by his mother.

I would rather take the second place in my son's affections than have my new daughter for one moment think of me as her 'mother-in-law.'" I believe that this is the sincere sentiment of more than one fond mother, as I am also sure that many a fond wife would rather have her husband loved by her own family than to receive so much affection herself.