Page:A Desk Book on the Etiquette of Social Stationary.djvu/75

 First calls should be returned within a fortnight, or upon the first "At Home" day.

Who makes the first call is a matter based on the existing social rule of the town or city. In Washington the newcomer calls first, thus choosing her friends. An undesirable acquaintance may be dropped after the second visit, but the first call must be returned in person or by an invitation, which stands for a call. If one calls accompanied by a friend who is not on the hostess' calling list, her name is not presented, nor is her chance visit considered a call.

A man, in calling on a friend who is visiting at a house where he is not acquainted, leaves a card also for the hostess, but need not ask for her. She should, however, endeavor to meet him cordially before he leaves the house.

Invitations which mark an especial hour must be acknowledged by note, but those which show a choice of hours, as from four until six, are not answered save by a card sent on the day, or left when one attends. An "At Home" or tea does not require an after call, excepting in