Stránka:roll 1910.djvu/138

BUILDING A LOG-CABIN (From Country Life, May, 1905) There are as many different kinds of log-cabins as of any other architecture. It is best to begin with the simplest. The tools needed are a sharp axe, a crosscut saw, an inch auger, and a spade. It is possible to get along with nothing but an axe (many settlers had no other tool), but the spade, saw, and auger save much work. For the site select a high, dry place, in or near the woods, and close to the drinking-water. It should be a sunny place, and with a view, preferably one facing south or east. Clear off and level the ground. Then bring your logs. These are more pic- turesque with the bark left on, but last longer peeled. Eight feet by twelve feet outside, makes a good cabin for three or four boys. Cut and carry about twelve logs, each ten feet long and twelve more, each fourteen feet long. The logs should be at least six inches through. Soft wood is preferable, as it is easier to handle ; the four ground logs, at least, should be of cedar, chestnut, or other wood that does not rot. Lay two of the fourteen- feet logs on the ground, at the places for the long sides, and seven feet apart. Then across them, at the end, lay two short ones, eleven feet apart. This leaves about a foot projecting from each log. Roll the last two into their resting-places, and flatten them till they sit firmly. It is of prime importance that each log rest immovably on the one below. Now cut the upper part of each end log, to an edge over each corner. (Fig. i.) Next put on two long logs, roll them on to the middle, taking care to change off, so the big end at a given corner may be fol- lowed next time by the small end, and insure the corner rising evenly. Roll one of these large logs close to where it is to be placed, then cut on its upper surface at each end a notch corre- sponding with the ridge on the log it is to ride on. When ready,