A modern housekeeper, who finds wood too dear an
article for even the air-tight stove, would be appalled by this
fireplace. Stalwart Mr. Reynolds, the master of the house, could
easily walk under its stony arch without removing his broad-
brimmed Quaker hat. From the left side, and at a convenient height
from the hearth, a massive crane swung in and out; while high
above the centre of the fire was an iron hook, or trammel, from
which by chains were suspended the capacious iron pots used in
those days for culinary or for stock-feeding purposes. This
trammel, which hitherto had suggested only good cheer, was
destined to have in coming years a terrible significance to the
household.
When the blaze was moderate, or the bed of live coals not too
ample, the children could sit on either side of the fireplace and
watch the stars through its wide flue; and this was a favorite
amusement of Phebe Reynolds, the eldest daughter of the house.
A door opened from the living-room into the other apartments,
furnished in the old massive style that outlasts many generations.
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