XMAS SHOPPING.

Otago Witness, Issue 2490, 4 December 1901, Page 66

XMAS SHOPPING.

As a kind of brief supplement to the above discussion, a few words on Christmas presents may be of use. In the way ot books, I notice a new edition, at Is 6d a volume, neatly bound in sensible green cloth covers, of a delightful selection of books. The woiks of Kingsley, Dickens, Fennimore Cooper, Ballantyne, Miss Wilson, and a number of favourite authois are to be found in this edition.

Then the new calendars for 1902 are out. and among them are some of tiie most beauaiful designs I have ever seen, notably those in black-and-white. They are not large, are panel-shaped, and intended tn stand on the table — the most beautiful are the seascapes. In the same style (and quite worth framing) are some of the Christmas and New Year cards, concerning which I noticed a very good innovation. The greetings are on a dainty little slip which is kept in place by a bebe-ribbon, ancl is easily slipped oft' if one desires to frame these lovely sea and landscapes. In one of the art shops they have lovely little " nocturnes "' — night and moonlight effects in blue, and these, with theii good mounts, are only Is each. I should have mentioned that the price of both the calendars and Christmas cards mentioned above is Is 6d.

Among the fancy trifles, I noticed some little salt sellers in the guise of oaken pails, with silver hoops and handles. There were 10s 6d a pair. Girls in the country will still find Venetian chains a delightful novelty, and as these are a little cheaper now, you can get really quaint and pretty ones from 3s 6d up. The little cards and cases of lace and tie pins, hat and blouse pins are endless, and may represent any price — from 4di a case or 2d a little card up to the tiny turquoise pins and greenstone pin.«, at five and ten shillings.

And when we get to matters of toiletware, why, the field of suggestion is endless. For an expensive present, what can be more beautiful and useful than good lace? And never were our colonial shops so tempting in this respect. Less enduring are ihe lovely chiffon boas and vests and trifles of all sorts. I should sooner far have a bit of good lace myself. . In another shop we are tempted by beautiful manicure sets in varying degrees of excellence and expense — anything from 3s 6d up. Then for friends who are onthusiastic photographers a book for mounting photos is always acceptable. I notice a great variety this year, in every style and size. However, I think, attractive as the topic is, I have now given as many suggestions as time and space permit.