Part 154 (2/2)

iv. A formal visit should never be made before noon. If a second visitor is announced, it will be proper for you to retire, unless you are very intimate both with the host and the visitor announced; unless, indeed, the host expresses a wish for you to remain.

v. Visits after b.a.l.l.s or parties should be made within a month.

vi. In the latter, it is customary to enclose your card in an envelope, bearing the address outside. This may be sent by post, if you reside at a distance.

vii. But, if living in the neighbourhood, it is polite to send your servant, or to call in person. In the latter case a corner should be turned down.

viii. Sc.r.a.pe your shoes and use the mat. Never appear in a drawing-room with mud on your boots.

ix. When a new visitor enters a drawing-room, if it be a gentleman, the ladies bow slightly, if a lady, the guests rise.

x. Hold your hat in your hand, unless requested to put it down. Then lay it beside you.

xi. The last arrival in a drawing-room takes a seat left vacant near the mistress of the house.

xii. A lady is not required to rise to receive a gentleman, nor to accompany him to the door.

xiii. When your visitor retires, ring the bell for the servant. You may then accompany your guest as far towards the door as the circ.u.mstances of your friends.h.i.+p seem to demand.

xiv. Request the servant, during the visits of guests, to attend to the door the moment the bell rings.

xv. When you introduce a person, p.r.o.nounce the name distinctly, and say whatever you can to make the introduction agreeable. Such as ”an old and valued friend,” a ”schoolfellow of mine,” ”an old acquaintance of our family.”

xvi. Never stare about you in a room as if you were taking stock of those who are present.

xvii. The gloves should not be removed during a visit.

xviii. Be hearty in your reception of guests; and where you see much diffidence, a.s.sist the stranger to throw it off.

xix. A lady does not put her address on her visiting card.

1937. b.a.l.l.s and Evening Parties.

i. An invitation to a ball should be given _at least_ a week beforehand.

ii. Upon entering, first address the lady of the house; and after her, the nearest acquaintances you may recognise in the room.

iii. If you introduce a friend, make him acquainted with the names of the chief persons present. But first present him to the lady of the house, and to the host.

iv. Appear in full dress.

v. Always wear gloves.

<script>