(Plato.)
Invitations were generally given a few days in advance by the host in person in the market or any other place of common sojourn.
Unlike the Egyptians, the Grecians made their toilets and anointed themselves before arriving at their host's house.
But before eating,
"* * * In a bowl
Of silver, from a shapely ewer of gold,
A maid poured water o'er the hands and set
A polished table near them."
Then, if any had traveled from a distance, their feet were bathed in perfumed water and wine.
Meanwhile the male attendants were not idle—