2645. The great requisites in the office of host are to be a good carver (if they carve at table), a calm temper, and a wish to place every one perfectly at his ease.
2646. The company should be so arranged that each lady will have some gentleman at her side, to assist her. Of course, it is every gentleman's duty, first of all to see that ladies near him are attended to.
2647. The lady of the house sits at the head of the table, and the gentleman opposite, at the foot. The place of honor for gentlemen, is on each side of the mistress of the house—for ladies, on each side of the master.
2648. When napkins are provided, they are at once carefully unfolded, and laid on the knees.
2649. Observe, if grace is to be said, and keep a proper decorum. If soup is served, take a piece of bread in the left hand, and the spoon in the right, and sip noiselessly from the side of the spoon.