For a cheap paste that will not turn sour or go had, mix together l lb. of common flour, 1/4 lb. of alum, and 1 qt. of water to make a smooth cream; boil 3 qt. of water in a pan, and while boiling add the other ingredients in a thin stream, stirring all the time. Continue boiling for a few minutes, then remove the pan from the fire. Oil of cloves may he added as a preservative.