f their son at half-past four o'clock,
Wednesday, May tenth. 12 Madison Avenue.

Or: MR. and MRS. JOHN THURSTON request the honor of MR. and MRS.
BROWN'S presence at the Christening of their daughter on Thursday, May
11th, at three o'clock. Reception from two to five, 150 Delaware
Place. Sometimes the words, "No presents expected," are added to the
invitation.

Attendance at the Ceremony.

These invitations are promptly answered, and those who attend should
wear a reception dress. The solemnity of the occasion should be
recognized by the appearance, previous to the hour named, of all who
expect to be present. Those who cannot be in time to witness the
ceremony should defer their arrival until a sufficient time has
elapsed to allow of its completion.

A temporary font is placed in a central position. This is best
arranged by banking up the top of a small round table with mosses,
smilax and delicate ferns, while the top, outside the rim of the bowl
holding the china basin containing the water, is a mass of white
flowers.

The drawing-room may be decorated with blossoms, and vocal or
instrumental music is usually provided. Hired musicians are sometimes
engaged. See that the selections are suitable to the sacred character
of the occasion. Friends are sometimes asked to give two or three
vocal selections.

At the appointed time the father and mother stand before the clergyman
at the font and receive their child from the nurse or some friend; the
godparents range themselves on either side, and the clergyman
proceeds with the service. If the parents are able, the clergyman is
usually given a handsome fee on these occasions.

Congratulations are offered the father and mother, and the baby, robed
elaborately, then becomes the center of attraction for a few moments,
until the host leads the way to the refreshment table which is
bountifully spread as for a reception.

A toast in the child's honor is often given at this time by one of the
sponsors. Guests shortly disperse. After calls are made, or cards
left, within ten days. Sometimes relatives only are invited to these
parties. When the christening is held in church, the party is set for
some hour of the same day.

Godfathers and Godmothers.

In selecting godparents or sponsors, relatives are often given
precedence and very close friends come next. Be careful in the choice,
as from these godparents is to be expected much good counsel and
kindly aid in the futur