for afternoon, it partakes of the nature of the
matinee. Bonnets are to be worn. Refreshments are not necessarily
served. The afternoon is often selected when noted stars are to sing,
since their time is taken up in the evening. The evening musicale,
however, is a more brilliant affair.

Replies are to be sent to these invitations, since for any
entertainment when all are to be seated, it is a convenience to know
the number of the guests.

The drawing-room is cleared of the greater part of its furniture, and,
if dancing is to follow, the carpet is covered with canvas, or
removed, if there is a hard wood floor. Camp chairs are provided for
the guests.

Arrangement of Performers and Guests.

The seating arrangements should present a clear space for the
performers. Too close proximity is not conducive to tranquility on the
part of the singer, and also spoils the tone effect. Professional
singers insist upon sufficient space. Remove all ornaments of
breakable china and _bric-a-brac_ from the vicinity of the piano,
which should be bare of cover, and admit of the lid being easily
raised and lowered. A bowl of cracked ice, some tumblers, and a pretty
jug of water should be placed upon a table near the piano. Good
ventilation should be ensured. A reading or recitation can be
introduced into a musical program with good effect, and a long program
should be divided by a recess for conversation, and to permit those to
retire who do not wish to remain to the end.

If dancing follows, the camp chairs are removed, or placed where they
can be used. Supper is also served before the dancing. Cigars, matches
and ash trays are usually found in the library by the gentlemen, or
the cigars are placed in the cloak room to be smoked on the journey
home. Either plan, or their omission altogether, is eminently proper.

A day musicale calls for morning dress for men, and a visiting or
walking toilet for women. An evening affair, with dancing, calls for
evening dress for both.

LAWN PARTIES.

"A green lawn, a few trees, a fine day, and something to eat are
really all the absolute requirements of a garden party." If true, this
places the pleasant mode of entertaining our friends in the power of
many people of moderate means. In remote country localities these
parties are very delightful, particularly if city friends are guests
for the Summer.

When properly conducted, a garden party may be given with very little
trouble, and made ve