Q. Can you tell me any way to get rid of those bugs called Croton bugs, or cockroaches, as they are sometimes called? They seem to appear always where water-pipes are put in, and pay no attention to insect-powder. Also, what is the best means of disinfecting sinks, drains, cesspools, etc.?

A. We have, in several cases, known these "water-bugs" to be exterminated by a sprinkling of powdered borax distributed around the shelves, drawers, etc., where they most do congregate.

The best disinfectant for sinks is hot soapsuds, applied with elbow-grease and a scraper.

For drains, the best way is to see that no pockets or places of deposit occur by defective planning or construction, ventilate at both ends, and apply plenty of water. If obstructions occur, remove them at once.

For cesspools, copperas-water is good, but it acts only for the time being. It is a good plan to clean them out often, if you must have them, and apply copperas-water to the sides liberally after such cleanings.