one's circle. It is safe to say that unless it
is a first call, which is the most formal, in our middle social stratum a
man expects, if he is welcome, to be asked to remove his overcoat.

A man waits for the woman to invite him to call, since it is her privilege
to choose her acquaintances. Such an invitation should not be given too
hastily, nor too soon after a first introduction. It is well not to show
too much eagerness to cultivate the acquaintance, and the woman should be
reasonably sure that the man is desirous of having the pleasure. If
invited, he should avail himself of the permission within a short time, by
way of showing his appreciation of the compliment. Young girls do not
invite young men to call on them; this is their mother's prerogative.

It is more correct in these days when everyone has a telephone, to call up
and inquire whether it will be convenient for the lady to receive callers,
unless, of course, one is paying duty calls, in which case a card
discharges the obligation.

[MANNERS AND SOCIAL CUSTOMS 691]

"Pour Prendre Conge."--In taking leave, it is well not to wait until one
has exhausted the conversational gamut, and "that awful pause" in which
neither seems to have anything to say, occurs. And having risen, do not
"stand upon the order of your going;" do not linger for last words, or
begin a fresh topic at the door, keeping your hostess standing and perhaps
detaining her from other guests. "Parting is such sweet sorrow" in some
cases that it becomes awkward and embarrassing because so prolonged.
Especially does it seem difficult for the youth who has not yet attained
the aplomb which makes him at ease in society, to "tear himself away."
Remember that a too abrupt departure, though regrettable, is better than
one too prolonged.

Girls' Manners.--When the young girl accompanies her mother on a calling
expedition, she waits for the latter to take the initiative in regard to
departure. She must allow the older person to precede her in entering and
leaving, and she must be careful not to monopolize the conversation. Good
manners give precedence to age.

"P. p. c."--The social novice is sometimes puzzled by "P. p. c." written
in the lower corner of a card. The letters stand for the French phrase,
"Pour prendre conge"--to take leave. Such cards are sent when one is to be
absent from home for a considerable period. They are left to be mailed
after departure. Thus the intending traveler is not i