The Book of Good Manners

The Book of Good Manners – Guide To Polite Usage For All Social Functions. DRESS. Both men and women wear afternoon dresses. GUESTS. All guests, both men and women, wear afternoon dresses. Guests may suit their convenience in arriving or departing—provided they do not come at the opening hour nor stay until the last moment.

After the guests have left their wraps in the dressing rooms, they leave their cards in the tray in the hall and enter the drawing room, the women preceding the men. After greeting the hostess and being introduced to those assisting her, the guests quietly move away and mingle with the rest. Each guest goes to the dining room when he pleases and leaves when he wishes. It is not necessary upon departure to shake hands with the hostess at a large reception, though it is better to do so at a small affair. A guest is not required to stay the entire evening; twenty minutes is sufficient. HOST. If present, he does not receive it with his wife.

He doesn’t have to be present on such an occasion. HOSTESS. The hostess wears a full dress. Daughters may assist, or young women may be asked to do so. HOURS. From four to seven. INVITATIONS. A visiting card may be used for afternoon tea with the hour and date written or engraved on it. They may be sent by mail or messenger.