There is a great lack of knowledge among both Maori and Pakeha about what are the really good buys on the market. A series of articles of which this is the first will bring authoritative advice to our readers. BUYING A FUR… by D. S. Dartnall Though mink coats may be strictly for film stars and others in the upper income brackets, most women sooner or later manage to achieve their ambition to own a fur piece, be it only a comparatively humble stole. And a pretty solid bill it is too, which cannot be met too often in a lifetime. If a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing, a complete absence of it can prove highly expensive. Here are a few tips which may help ensure that when buying a fur you are getting the best value for your money and can protect your investment.

HOW TO JUDGE QUALITY The best-grade pelts are characterised by long hair which is thick and full. Usually the animal has hair of two different lengths, a short underfur and a longer, coarser growth of so-called “guard” hairs. The best fur has a thick growth of underfur which holds the guards hairs erect. It has a thick, fluffy appearance. Every fur has its distinctive texture, but any good pelt has a live lustrous appearance, whereas low quality is indicated by dullness or artificial lustre. It takes experience, however, to distinguish between fine, natural texture and an artificial simulation of it. Always examine the skin. Its condition to a great extent determines the life of the pelt. It should be soft and pliable because of the presence of sufficient oil, but tough and thick enough to withstand a strong pull.

TREATMENT OF FURS A little understanding of how furs are processed should help the buyer in estimating quality. As they reach the manufacturer, pelts are still

looks like cream … tastes like cream Pure, fresh milk evaporated to double richness, double creaminess—that's IDEAL. Creamy-rich on your cereals or fruit … creamy-rich in your tea or coffee and ideal for thickening and enriching soup. Used as milk or used as cream Ideal has a thousand uses, and it's so economical … so handy … so useful to have in the home always. IDEAL MILK BY NESTLE'S