It is not often that a ladder having more than three or four steps is required about the house, yet even one of this size takes up enough space to warrant us placing it in the cellar, with the result that when it is required for only a minute or two we do not think it worth the trip, and so we climb on table or chair, or whatever is nearest and most handy.

The chair shown here has a good appearance and has the additional merit of transforming itself into a ladder at an moment's notice. An inspection of the drawing will make the construction clear.

Whichever kind of lumber is used, it should measure from three-fourths to one inch in thickness. First, work out the two side-boards of each side, and see to it that when they are placed together they will form the proper shape for the side of the chair. Set the two front halves aside, and proceed to construct the entire back half of the chair. Prepare the rear portion of the seat-board and then the crosspiece that sets on the floor at the rear. The two sides may now be set up and connected, using glue and screws at all connections.

The two back crosspieces and the thin panel board are now to be prepared and fitted together, after which secure them firmly in place. The step, half-way between the seat and the floor, is now to be placed, and the back half of our chair is complete. To finish the front half it is only necessary to make the other half of the seat-board and the lower step, and with them connect the two front portions of the sides previously prepared. When the two halves are now placed together, they should form a good substantial chair, which requires nothing further than a pair of hinges to make it complete. By using blocks at the connections of the seat with the sides, and by mortising the back cross-pieces into the sides, the conspicuous use of screws or nails may be avoided.