The first paper might be on famous conversationalists; mention Johnson, Horace Walpole, Macauley, Fanny Burney, Samuel Rogers, Lady Mary Wortley Montagu and Sidney Smith, among many others.
The second would follow with some account of famous salons, especially those of France at the time of Récamier; see Sainte-Beuve's essays on this theme. What of corresponding salons elsewhere?
A third paper would speak informally of conversation to-day; is it becoming a lost art? Do we consider it seriously?
This paper will lead naturally to a discussion on these and similar themes: What of our home table talk? Should children be taught to converse rather than to chatter? Shall we prepare ourselves in advance for conversations at dinners and other social occasions? What is the relation between a good conversationalist and a good listener?
VI—MENDELSSOHN
When club members can not only write papers but also play and sing, this will be found a popular little program: Mendelssohn's famous grandfather; his father, interested in his son's genius; his early home life; his sister Fanny; the little Sunday morning concerts; his education, his versatility, his gay, affectionate nature.
The second paper may be on the early beginnings of his work as a composer; of his first opera; the overture to Midsummer Night's Dream, and the formation and work of his choir. Speak of his travels in England and on the continent, of his marriage; his call to Berlin by the king, and his operas and oratorios; the foundation of his music school; and last his death.
The third paper should discuss his position among musicians, his greatest work and its lasting qualities. Discuss: Does Mendelssohn rank among the great musicians?
Between each two papers have played some of the Songs Without Words, and others of his best known compositions, and have some of his songs sung, or selections from his oratorios; or they may be given by using musical records. The Lark, I Would that My Love, and Had I the Wings of a Dove, are among the best.