she prefer,
keep the supper-room closed until half-past twelve, or one, when she
will give the word. Her husband should lead the way to supper with
some lady to be especially honored. The hostess should not go out
herself until she sees that every lady has been properly escorted,
save in cases where she is to accompany some very distinguished
gentleman who is present. In this case she delegates her authority
either to a grown son, some other relative, or to some gentleman
especially appointed, who takes her place in seeing that there are no
forgotten wall-flowers left to blush unseen.

No gentleman should presume to offer the hostess his escort to the
supper-room, this being an honor she confers at pleasure.

[Illustration: THE COQUETTE.]

A small tea-room on an upper floor is very desirable at a large
gathering. Here guests, ladies especially, can, unattended, seek the
refreshment of a cup of tea, coffee, cocoa, or bouillon before
descending to the drawing-rooms. Gentlemen, too, may escort their
wearied partners to this haven for a moment's light refection and rest
after dancing. Iced lemonade should also be served here, and the room
never left without an attendant.

Many who do not care for a heavy supper, are wont to resort to this
room, where tiny sandwiches, maccaroons, etc., should also be in
readiness.

A smoking-room is frequently provided at large entertainments where
the gentlemen may retire. Cigars, effervescent waters, and lemonade
are furnished here, and sometimes stronger drinks. This last, however,
is a question which every hostess must settle according to her own
convictions. If wines are furnished, champagne and claret punch are
the usual choice, and a trusted attendant should be at hand to serve
them. Those who patronize this room will, if they wish to lay any
claim to the name of "gentlemen," carefully refrain from the slightest
over-indulgence in these cooling, but deceptive drinks.

If there should be no smoking-room set aside, gentlemen must never
smoke in their dressing-room. To do so is especially thoughtless and
impolite.

Host and Hostess.

In giving a ball the hostess, upon whom the greatest strain will fall,
must be sure of her own physical and mental strength. To stand for two
consecutive hours in one spot and receive each comer with the same
sweet courtesy is a severe strain upon both.

Daughters, young lady relatives or ladies invited to receive, are
usually at hand to supp