VERMIN AND THEIR EXTERMINATION

Though it seems indelicate to suggest the possibility of a bug in a
well-kept, charming chamber, even the best housekeeping is not always
proof against feeling "things at night." Metal beds are rather
inhospitable to bugs, and if carefully examined, with the mattress,
once a week, there is small danger of their getting a foothold. If
traces are discovered, hunt out the bugs and exterminate them if
possible, and sprinkle bed and mattress with a good, reliable insect
powder; or spray with gasolene, or wood alcohol and corrosive
sublimate, and keep the room shut up for a few hours. Baseboard and
moldings should also be treated in this way. If, after repeating
several times, this proves ineffectual, smoke out the room with
sulphur, first removing all silver and brass articles and winding those
which cannot be moved with cloth. Then proceed according to directions
for fumigating the closet, using a pound of sulphur for a room of
average size. If the room has become badly infested, it will be best
to tear off the wall and ceiling paper, and fill all cracks and
crevices with plaster of Paris. Such shreds of self-respect as these
terrors by night may possess cannot long survive such treatment, and
they will soon depart to that country from whose bourne no bug returns.




CHAPTER X

THE BATHROOM