January derives its name from the Roman deity Janus. It is the first
month of the year—following December, and taking precedence of February.
It contains thirty-one days.
We have been induced to make the above remarks by the conviction that no
work, however brilliant, has a chance of success in the present day,
unless containing a certain amount of really sound and valuable
information. Considering we have established our powers in that line
triumphantly, we will proceed to foretell the principal events of the
month.
On second thoughts though, the month is so absurdly near at hand, and
the events themselves will so soon happen, that it is hardly worth
while. It has even occurred to us that it would be an insult to our
readers—the very notion of which makes our blood run cold! Of course,
under the circumstances, we cannot think of anything of the kind.
DIRECTIONS FOR BEGINNING THE NEW YEAR WELL.—Go out to dinner on the 31st
of December. Select the best house you know for the purpose. Eat and
drink of the best, and spend the evening cheerfully. See the new year
in, and accept your host's offer of a bed. Breakfast with the family; be
in excellent health and spirits, and have a legacy left you.
FAMILY RECEIPTS.—Those given by the landlord on the 26th ultimo are the
most appropriate to the month, and should be taken care of in case of
accidents.
TO AVOID CHOPPED HANDS.—Have your meat properly jointed by the butcher,
and don't attempt to chop it yourself.
[Illustration:
THE GOLDEN NUMBER.
]
SCRAPS OF INFORMATION,
USEFUL AND ORNAMENTAL,
(_The latter through the kind assistance of Mr. H. G. Hine._)