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plate should be screwed, the same width as the door.
This will not only prevent the heavy beer barrels
from injuring the lloor, but keep it in good condi
tion. Iron or steel plates, like a cornice, should be
placed in all the four corners of the bo.x to prevent
the entrance of air. Not more than a quarter of an
inch in thickness, they shoukl always be screwed
into the wood. A plate should also be attached to
the inside of the doors, as well as to the door of the
ice chamber, by screws, so that it will, when the door
is closed, cover the crevice between the door and
the jamb. Then there should be the proper size door
plates made to cover the sills, and substantial door
hinges, handles and knobs. When this is entirely
completed, well put together and screwed up tight,
have the box painted with two or three coats to suit
your own taste, though I prefer white, as it helps
to lighten the basement or cellar.
On the inside of the box, if there is room, have
shelves put up at the top, on which to place bottled
goods. At each end there should be a small shelf
for your tools, such as mallet, brace and bit, a can
containing plaster of paris and a bottle of water for
mixing the plaster, the latter to be used if any of
the beer barrels are leaking. If it is convenient, il
luminate the ice box with electricity; if not, a candle
stick and candle is to be placed on the shelves with
matches ready for use. It is also best to have a
small iron chain attached to the door, and a hook
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