Often their design
is quite good and in consequence they fill a large place in many a
modest home. Indeed, although we ourselves do not go in for such
chinas we respect a well-made piece of earthenware, for the making of
good earthenware is an art in itself. Many a rule attends its
successful manufacture. For example, the bottom of a heavy piece must
not be too thick, or it will crack, because a tremendous strain comes
on the base when the clay begins to dry and shrink. The sides pull
from every direction, and therefore the bottom must be sufficiently
thin to be elastic, and sufficiently thick to be strong. And that is
only one of the problems to be faced by pottery and earthenware
makers. So you see they, as well as we, have troubles."
"I guess no business is without its troubles," observed Theo.
"No business that is interesting," answered Mr. Croyden. "It is
getting the better of such difficulties that gives zest to
manufacture, making it a constant field for man's fertile brain. I
think the old Italians were right when during the golden days of
Venetian history they recognized the intellectual status of
glass-makers, silk-makers, and the like; and accorded to such men the
same honors they did to those of noble rank.
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