WITH THE A. E. F. IN FRANCE
1918, there were over 39,000 patients at Mesves, and about 30,000 at Mars and Pouges les Eaux. The Verneuil shops were run by about 10,000 of Uncle Sam's boys.
The Workers arrived in Nevers on September 15, 1918, and at once had a most satisfactory interview with the Commanding General of the section. He offered them the use of the army transport service whenever needed and referred them to the billeting officer, who was of great assistance in locating quarters for the Reading Rooms.
These were opened on the ground floor at 5 Avenue St. Just. This street was the main thoroughfare for both civilians and soldiers, on the direct road to nearby camps. The transformation from a French pastry shop to Christian Science Reading Rooms proved interesting. The permanent fixtures in the large room consisted of a cashier's desk at the rear and small counters on either side. These proved to be most useful, the cashier's desk making an excellent Reader's desk during the services, while the counters afforded ample space for the display of literature, the enclosed shelving being used for supplies. The entire rear wall was covered with a mirror and there were large mirrors also above the counters. It was the desire of the workers to combine beauty with comfort in the rooms and to give the impression of an American living room. This was accomplished, and it meant much to the boys in contrast with the barrenness of army barracks.
In addition to the permanent fixtures, a large reading table was placed in the center of the room on which were all of Mrs. Eddy's works, Bibles and other litera-
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