ther than a festive
epoch. Presents on this occasion are not so generally given, and
children and grandchildren rather than acquaintances make up the circle
of those who offer congratulations.

CHAPTER XLV

SUBSCRIPTION DANCES

=Subscription= dances are now an established fact, but whether they will
ever really become a rival to the dance proper remains to be seen; yet
as they supply a want felt, and are recognised by society, the
arrangements necessary for carrying them out should be duly noted.

During the winter months they are a feature in certain sets:
Subscription dances, private Subscription dances and public Subscription
dances, the latter got up for charitable purposes.

The moderate expenses incurred by giving private Subscription dances
commend them to many, and there are other reasons to account for their
popularity. They are without pretension to being considered smart or
exclusive, and are essentially small and early dances. Fashionable
ball-goers are not expected to attend them. They commence at 9 o'clock
and terminate at 12, light refreshments in lieu of supper are provided,
as at an afternoon "at home." (See p. 153.) A piano band is considered
sufficient for the purpose, and floral decorations are scarcely ever
attempted. The invitations are issued on "at home" cards, with the words
"Subscription Dance" printed in one corner.

* * * * *

=Subscription dances= are sometimes invitation dances and sometimes not.
Tickets for these dances are charged for singly or by the series as the
case may be. A certain number of ladies form a committee and agree to
give a certain number of dances, and the expenses are either borne by
the ladies themselves or covered by the sale of the tickets. If
invitation dances, a certain number of invitations are allotted to each
lady. When otherwise, the ladies dispose of the tickets among their
friends. These dances are usually held in a mansion hired for the
purpose, and there are several available in different parts of the West
End, where spacious rooms can be hired on very moderate terms; in some
instances a piano, seats, and other accessories are also included.

* * * * *

=Public Subscription= dances are held in public rooms or Town Halls, and
vouchers are given by ladies on the committee previous to tickets being
granted.

The same etiquette holds good at Subscription dances as at other public