e, and quite at their ease; and the guests should also
consider that they have come to the house of their hostess to be
happy. Thus an opportunity is given to all for innocent
enjoyment and intellectual improvement, when also acquaintances
may be formed that may prove invaluable through life, and
information gained that will enlarge the mind. Many celebrated
men and women have been great talkers; and, amongst others, the
genial Sir Walter Scott, who spoke freely to every one, and a
favourite remark of whom it was, that he never did so without
learning something he didn't know before.

35. DINNER BEING ANNOUNCED, the host offers his arm to, and places on
his right hand at the dinner-table, the lady to whom he desires to pay
most respect, either on account of her age, position, or from her being
the greatest stranger in the party. If this lady be married and her
husband present, the latter takes the hostess to her place at table, and
seats himself at her right hand. The rest of the company follow in
couples, as specified by the master and mistress of the house, arranging
the party according to their rank and other circumstances which may be
known to the host and hostess.

It will be found of great assistance to the placing of a party
at the dinner-table, to have the names of the guests neatly (and
correctly) written on small cards, and placed at that part of
the table where it is desired they should sit. With respect to
the number of guests, it has often been said, that a private
dinner-party should consist of not less than the number of the
Graces, or more than that of the Muses. A party of ten or twelve
is, perhaps, in a general way, sufficient to enjoy themselves
and be enjoyed. White kid gloves are worn by ladies at
dinner-parties, but should be taken off before the business of
dining commences.

36. THE GUESTS BEING SEATED AT THE DINNER-TABLE, the lady begins to help
the soup, which is handed round, commencing with the gentleman on her
right and on her left, and continuing in the same order till all are
served. It is generally established as a rule, not to ask for soup or
fish twice, as, in so doing, part of the company may be kept waiting too
long for the second course, when, perhaps, a little revenge is taken by
looking at the awkward consumer of a second portion. This rule, however,
may, under various circumstances, not be considere