Page:The Diothas, or, A far look ahead (IA diothasorfarlook01macn).pdf/85

 piece as to carry a drinking-cup. We keep them, however, for special purposes."

So saying, he entered the next room, and returned, to place in my hands a watch of the period. The case was of ualin of the finest quality. The watch being wound and regulated on the principle of the stem-winder, the case was hermetically sealed; as it did not require to be opened, perhaps, once in a lifetime. The works, though of excellent finish, were of the utmost simplicity, there being only two hands. The smallest portion of time indicated, about five-sixths of our minute, was considered as sufficiently small for all practical purposes.

"After a brief plunge in the bath," said Utis, when I had returned the watch, "put on this working-suit that I have placed on the chair. Do not spend more than ten minutes on the whole operation: our toilet proper is performed after the morning's work is over. When you come down, I will initiate you further."

Within the prescribed time I met my host at the foot of the stair. On entering the dining-room, we found on the side-table a pitcher of milk, tumblers, and a plate of very palatable sandwiches.

"We have three hours of hard work before us," said Utis, as an inducement for me to follow his example.

None of the rest of the household made their appearance while we partook of this simple refreshment, but that some were up and at work was manifest. The sound of a power-loom was heard in the next apartment. Mingled with this could be distinguished the peculiar hum of some other machine; while at intervals the pleasant sound of female voices, and an occasional burst of half