e. In all old countries this relationship is
expected to last for a lifetime, and the godparents are supposed to
watch over the religious growth of the child and see that in due time
he is brought forward for confirmation, or for union with the church
in some other manner.

A boy is expected to have two godfathers and one godmother; a girl one
godfather and two godmothers. A note is sent to each person selected
as sponsor asking him to assume that friendly office. This request
should never be refused except for good and sufficient reason.

Godparents usually make a present to the child, generally in the form
of some suitable silver article. Among the very wealthy, especially if
the child bears the godfather's name, very valuable presents are often
made, these generally taking the form of checks for large amounts.

Candle Party.

The modern candle party is given when the child is about six weeks
old, and is quite a separate affair from the christening, the church
having objected in some cases to having the two celebrated at the same
time. Candle parties, simply in the nature of a name-festival, are
frequently given when the christening is not observed.

Invitations are sent out one week in advance, and are in the following
form: MR. and MRS. BROWN request your company, Wednesday afternoon, at
three. CANDLE. 125 Vancouver Street. No presents expected.

The words, "no presents," need not prevent any who wish from making a
gift, but relieves those who may not be prepared.

The phrase, "Candle Party," is somewhat difficult to define, but the
name and the custom have come down from olden times. It used then to
be the habit to serve all who called with inquiries and
congratulations on the arrival of a little stranger, with a kind of
spiced gruel, flavored with rum or Madeira, and known as "candle."
This was served in china cups having two handles, so they could be
passed from one to another. These were called "candle cups," and are
much prized heirlooms in more than one old family. This ceremony was
then observed when the child was three days old; now the "candle
party" is celebrated when it is at least six weeks old.

The mother receives her guests in some elaborate house gown, the baby
in robes of state is on exhibition for a short time, and the guests
are served with "candle" in the form of an oatmeal gruel, long and
slowly boiled with raisins and spices, and fine old Madeira or rum
added at the last until the be