Page 137

                 DESIGN XIII.
  WE might, with     almost   equal propriety, have
termed this a farm-house.     The only objection to
this is the probability of impressing the reader with
the idea that its application would be accordingly
restricted.  Indeed, it almost deserves the name of
VILLA; but the total absence of ostentation in its ex-
ternal aspect inclines us to the appellation we have
bestowed upon it, notwithstanding the villa-like ex-
tent of its accommodations.     Plain, sensible, and
solid, it is within the reach and applicable to the
circumstances of many who love convenience without
ambitious display, and who prefer dignified plainness
to gingerbread ostentation.  Architecturally, this de-
sign aims at being a country dwelling, manifesting
the dignity, comfort, and substantial character of
social life that is attainable in the country.   There
is a growing demand for this class of dwellings.
Farmers are becoming rich, merchants and manufac-
turers are retiring from business; and we know that
while the frank modesty of the farmer seldom allows
him to aspire to towers or pinnacles, nine out of ten
of retired citizens are too plain and practical in their
views to seek for more than the embodiment of the
various accommodations suited to their modes of life,
at the lowest grade of expense requisite to give them
                                       (13T)