--Whatever objections may be raised to the teachings of works on etiquette, there can be no sound argument against a series of simple and brief hints, which shall operate as precautions against mistakes in personal conduct.
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--Letters of Introduction.
--i. When giving a letter to introduce a friend leave it unsealed, as he may wish to see what you have said before making use of it.
--ii. In availing yourself of a letter of this kind intended as a friendly introduction, send it in an envelope with your card and address, but do not call until the friends to whom you are introduced have called upon you.
--iii. If the letter is a business introduction deliver it without delay.
--iv. On receiving a letter of introduction be sure to acknowledge it at once, and call on the person introduced as soon as possible.
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--Calls, Visits, at Homes.
--i. It is now usual for ladies to have an ''at home day'' once or twice a month, when they make a point of being at liberty to receive any friends who wish to call on them. It is customary to have the intimation of your at home day printed on your visiting card, such as (''1st and 3rd Thursday'') (''2nd Monday'').
--ii. A formal visit should never be made before luncheon. If a second visitor arrives it is advisable not to remain long, unless you are very intimate both with the host and the visitor; or the host expresses a wish for you to stay.
--iii. Ladies should not remove their gloves when making an afternoon call.
--iv. In winter-time a gentleman should not enter the drawing-room wearing an overcoat, and should leave his hat, stick, or umbrella in the hall. In summer a hat and stick may be taken in if the call is to be a short one, but umbrellas must be left in the hall.
--v. Visits after balls or parties should be made within a month.
--vi. Visits of condolence should be paid within a week or fortnight after the event and require a grave style of dress.
--vii. When you introduce a person, pronounce their name distinctly, and say whatever you can to make the introduction agreeable. Such as ''an old and valued friend,'' ''a school-fellow of mine,'' ''an old acquaintance of the family.''
--viii. A gentleman should be introduced to a lady, not the lady to the gentleman; young men and women to their seniors in age and position. Gentlemen should not offer to shake hands with a lady on being introduced, the advance must come from the lady, if at all.
--ix. Be hearty in your reception of guests; and where you see much diffidence, assist the stranger to throw it off.
--x. Request the servant, during the visits of guests, to attend to the door the moment the bell rings.
--xi. When your visitor retires, ring the bell for the servant. You may then accompany your guest as far towards the door as circumstances of your friendship seem to demand.
--xii. If visiting for a few days at a friend's house, give as little trouble as possible, and endeavour to conform to the habits of the family. Ascertain the usual time's for meals, and make a point of being punctual.
''Man Proposes, But God Disposes.''