INTRODUCTIONS. The hostess should introduce
her guests to those receiving with her.
See also INTRODUCTION.
INVITATIONS. Engraved invitations are sent a
week or ten days in advance, by mail or messenger.
They are usually issued in the name of the
hostess only, though they may be issued in
the name of both husband and wife.
In place of the visiting-card, an "At
Home" card may be used, or cards specially
engraved for the purpose.
When cards are sent to a married couple,
the cards are addressed to both husband and
wife.
Invitations are sent in two envelopes-the inner one unsealed and bearing the name of the guest, and the outer one sealed, with, the street address.
INVITATIONS, ANSWERING. It is not necessary to accept or decline these invitations, as the guest accepts by his presence. If unable to do so, he should send by mail or messenger a visiting-card, to reach the hostess during the ceremony.
When the invitation has been issued in the name of the hostess only, a husband and wife each send a card, and if in the name of hostess and her daughter, each should send two cards. If the invitation has been issued in the name of the husband and wife, the wife should send one and a husband two cards.
If the woman in the family is the only one present at the function, she can leave cards for the rest of the family.
MEN. Both the host and men wear the regulation afternoon dress, consisting of the long frock coat with single or double-breasted waistcoat to match, or of some fancy cloth, and gray trousers. White linen, a light tie, a silk hat, gray gloves, and patent leather shoes complete the costume.