imate girl friends at a small tea or luncheon her mother or some
relative gives for her. In this case the decorations are suggestive.
Heart-shaped place cards, decorated with the entwined initials of the two
parties; pink flowers, banked in heart-shape and pierced with silver
arrows, for a centerpiece, and sandwiches and cakes in heart shape, the
latter decorated in pink, are often used. At each plate may be a small
cluster of pink carnations, tied with narrow ribbons, one end connecting
with an arrow in the centerpiece. When these are drawn out some
appropriate sentiment is found attached, which is read aloud by the guest.

Any novel form may be employed in communicating the joyous intelligence.
Midway the repast some friend previously selected for the honor may
propose a health to the two who are betrothed; someone may ask a moment's
indulgence while she reads an interesting paragraph from a letter, or a
mock telegram may be delivered. Congratulations are in order; sometimes
the fiance has been held in reserve, and is brought in to share with his
fiancee the good wishes of her friends.

730 MOTHERS' REMEDIES

All who receive notes are expected to call in person or send letters of
congratulation. Flowers are often sent, and dinners, theater parties, and
other entertainments given for the young couple. Engagement gifts are
often given; china being a favorite choice, though any gift is in order.

After the Announcement.--Immediately upon the announcement of the
engagement the parents of the young man call upon his fiancee and her
mother, whether previously acquainted or not. His family takes the
initiative in the exchange of hospitality which follows. Calls are to be
returned within a week. In case the man's family live at a distance, the
members should at once write cordial, kindly letters to the girl, to which
she must reply within a few days. She should not "gush" but should show
her desire to know them, and a cordial and friendly feeling. The
prospective mother-in-law may invite the girl to visit her. She should
remember that no matter how welcome the alliance she is under inspection,
as it were, and do her best, through courtesy and tact and friendliness to
create a favorable impression.

The Girl's Behavior.--The engagement ring is not worn until the engagement
is announced. If the young man's means permit, it is usually as handsome a
diamond solitaire as he can afford. No womanly girl would wish her f