THE SERVANT PROBLEM.

Mataura Ensign, 20 March 1909, Page 4

THE SERVANT PROBLEM.

HAS FKANCE SOLVED lIF Comparisons regarding the servant problem with French and English homes are of interest. In French middle-class homes one good general, or "bonne," is the usual thing (says a writer in a Homo paper), ihe Frenchwoman takes a prido in her home, and thinks no part ol the work beneath her, while as a rule mistress and maid work in complete harmony with each other. __ Xho "bonne" rises early, tho light French breakfast, is soon disposed of, then "Marie" picks up her marketing basket and sallies forth on what is the most important errand of tho day. A consultation is held between mistress and maid; they decide what shall he bought, and "Marie" sets out.

She is scrupulously honest; she would never rob her mistress of a sou, hut both she and "niadnnio" know that certain perquisites are hers and no questions are. raised anent these. If "Mario" change to another butcher his meat will ho quito as good, tho price will remain tho same, but tbo mistress will guess that Butcher No. 2 is giving "Marie" better terms than Butcher No. 1. The French "bonne" selects everything herself; she does not trust to the tradesman, and she knows that by doing the marketing she, is saving her mistress' pocket as well as reflecting credit on herself, since the meals she prepares will bo made with ilio best of everything. She visits the market instead of the shops, as here she has a better choice of goods, particularly vegetables, butter, and eggs, and these three are itsed much more freely in place of meat in France than here.

Often enough a meal is quite the subject of conversation in France, even "monsieur" throwing in his word. But tho French domestic, really prides herself on her cooking; she loves to he praised; and her mistress knows it, nor does she forget to do so at ihe right minute. „ "Marie's" honest- f.ice Hushes with pride; "madamoV' guests hate heard that she is a treasure; she retire;; to her kitchen beaming all over, resolved to surpass herself the nest iiine. "What though there are extra plates and dishes with company. ".Madame" appreciates her services. Is that not ample? Indeed, here 1 think lies the real secret of (he success of the. servant question in France. The French servant is not- treated as a menial; .she is esteemed •i worthy member of the household, one of the family, in f;iet; nud her opinion is sought and deference (mid to her suggestions in a way that is almost unknown here.