Receiving the Guests.—The hostess should receive her guests at the head of the staircase, where she usually remains until the principal of her guests have arrived; while the host welcomes the guests in the drawing-room itself.
Receptions or "at homes" usually terminate shortly before one o'clock, save on Saturdays, when the hour of departure is 12 o'clock precisely.
Making Introductions.—A hostess should use her own discretion as regards making introductions.
When a royal personage is present the most distinguished of the guests should be presented by the host or hostess. When a celebrity is present introductions should also be made; and as regards general introductions they should be made whenever the hostess judges it expedient to do so, and the principal guests when unacquainted should be introduced to each other when the opportunity occurs.
Going in to Supper.—The host should take the lady of highest rank in to supper.
When a royal princess is present the host should take her in to supper.
When a royal prince is present he should take the hostess in to supper. (See [Chapter V.])