Here is today's quote:
“In retiring for the night, it is well to remember that early rising is almost impossible, if late going to bed be the order, or rather disorder, of the house. The youngest members of a family should go early and at regular hours to their beds, and the domestics as soon as possible after a reasonably appointed hour. Either the master or the mistress of a house should, after all have gone to their separate rooms, see that all is right with respect to the lights and fires below; and no servants should, on any account, be allowed to remain up after the heads of the house have retired.”
This little gem of wisdom was written by Mrs Isabella Beeton in her 1861 book “Beeton’s Book of Household Management.” This book became a famous English compendium on how to run a home (with servants), and how to cook almost anything.
The book I own is a first edition facsimile and makes a fascinating read.
Margaret xx
I couldn’t imagine living in a huge house with servants. I’m not sure I’d like it. I think I’d get very bored if I had people to do everything.
ReplyDeleteA quote that seems peculiar to us today, but there is wisdom there, especially regards children.
ReplyDeleteLove that Camelia!!
Blessings
Maxine
I love these old management tips, I have a later version of that book.
ReplyDeleteI would like to find a copy of the book...I dontbknow why I have never thought to look for one. That is a beautiful flower...
ReplyDeleteThat book gives a good look at life for a certain class back then.
ReplyDeleteThat is so old fashioned. From the going to bed early to the separate rooms. They're quite funny nowadays .Children rarely go to bed early here. It's the continental style lol
ReplyDeleteI do the nightly round to make sure that lights, appliances etc are off and the doors are locked. Some things change over time, but some things stay the same, which is rather comforting.
ReplyDeleteInteresting quote from that book. I suppose she assumed that whoever was reading her book had servants!
ReplyDeleteMrs Beeton is about the same generation as my Fanny Farmer's Boston Cooking School Cookbook, which sa fabulous recipes in it. My other 'tried and true' is the (also American) Joy of Cooking. For basics, they are both unsurpassed.
ReplyDelete