raved for the occasion may be
substituted, thus: "Mrs. ---- presents her sincerest thanks for recent
kind inquiries." These may be sent by mail, but really should be
carried by special messenger. Enclose in two envelopes. There is
another method of acknowledging attentions during a period of
bereavement, viz., the notice in the daily papers. This, however, does
not usually meet with favor in large cities, but the example set by
Mr. and Mrs. Secretary Blaine upon the death of their son, is, from
its heartfelt pathos, worthy of imitation. The card appeared in all
the Washington papers as follows:

"The sympathy of friends has been so generously extended to
Mr. and Mrs. Blaine in the great grief which has befallen
their household that they are unable to make personal
response to each. They beg, therefore, that this public
recognition be accepted as the grateful acknowledgment of a
kindness that has been most helpful through the days of an
irreparable loss."

Birth cards are frequently sent to all friends, at home and abroad, as
soon as the child is named. One very pretty style now in mind read as
follows: ETHEL MAY TOUCEY, Half-past twelve o'clock, January 12, 1895.
This was enclosed in two small envelopes and sent by mail. These are
more especially useful for sending to friends at a distance.

Christening and Funeral Cards are considered in their respective
departments. Families in deep mourning are not expected to send out
return cards under the first year. Some prefer, however, to send cards
of thanks very soon to those who have inquired, leaving ordinary
visiting cards unanswered the usual length of time.

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VISITING CUSTOMS

[Illustration]

The customs of society in regard to visiting or "calling," and the
rules that govern these customs, are well worthy of our attention and
care, since they in a great measure underlie and uphold the structure
of our social life. No one, therefore, need consider these details
trivial or of little account, since, according to Lord Chesterfield,
"Great talents are above the appreciation of the generality of the
world, but all people are judges of civility, grace of manner, and an
agreeable address, because they feel the good effects of them as
making society easy and pleasing."

Length of Visits.

Ceremonious visits should always be short, fifteen to twenty minutes
being the outside limit, and a shorter time often s