ry simple and informal, but if desired may be made
elaborate and ceremonious.

When only neighbors are to be entertained, a hasty invitation, so as
to be sure of fine weather, may be sent two or three days in advance,
but when guests are expected from any distance it is customary to send
invitations eight or ten days in advance, as suitable preparations
must be made.

These invitations are usually engraved on handsome, plain note paper,
and may be in this form:

[Illustration:

_Mr. and Mrs. Charles Leigh_

_Request the pleasure of_

_Mrs. Morton's_

_Company on Thursday, the fifth of August,_

_At three o'clock._

_Garden Party._

_Maple Grove._]

When guests are to come by rail it is well to send a card stating the
hours at which trains arrive and leave the station. Then if carriages
are to meet the train, on a card enclosed might be printed: _Carriages
will meet the 3.30 train from Union Depot._

A lady, also, may invite her friends to a garden party by sending her
visiting card with "Tennis" or "Garden Party" written in the lower
left hand corner, and day and hour in the lower right hand corner, or
under her name. It is well sometimes to specify the time of closing.

At a garden party the hostess receives her guests on the lawn, or in
the garden, wearing her hat and gloves. But guests should always be
invited to the house to take off their wraps, or arrange their toilet
if desired. Of course, a maid servant should be in the dressing-room
to attend their wants.

[Illustration: A NAVAL BALL ON SHIPBOARD.]

[Illustration: AN ABSORBING STORY.]

The thoughtful hostess will take care to have everything in
readiness for the comfort and entertainment of the company. Rugs
should be laid on the grass for the accommodation of those not
accustomed to standing on the ground, and easy chairs provided for
delicate or aged ladies who may be present, so all may enjoy the party
without fear of the consequence.

Amusements to be Provided.

Much tact is required to properly entertain guests at a garden party,
and prevent them from wandering aimlessly about the grounds. Ample
amusements must, therefore, be provided.

The lawn tennis ground must be in perfect order, croquet sets in
readiness, archery tools supplied, as well as arrangements for all
kinds of suitable games made. Music is a very delightful addition to
the pleasure of such an occasion, and should always be had, when
practicable.

Ladies wear h