lights.

Candelabra likewise is used, and it should be of that quaint looking
black material that is decidedly Oriental in appearance and is the
latest thing in such bric-a-brac. White tapers with red shades show off
to advantage above this dark fancifully wrought metal, shedding a softly
subdued radiance, at once pretty and restful to the eye.

The chrysanthemum, while not the national flower, is the imperial
favorite and best beloved bloom of the people, therefore it is the
proper one for decoration, united with potted plants, palms, vines, etc.
All hues and kinds may be combined in the general adornment of room or
rooms (the red and white being confined to the tables alone), for
twining, banking or bouquets, just as fancy dictates, and the
furnishings admit. The chrysanthemum, gorgeous in itself and lavishly
employed, makes a superb decoration, and if, for a background, the
walls, doors, windows, etc., are draped in Japanese tapestry goods, with
friezes of the flowers, the result will prove singularly striking and
beautiful.

Of course, Japanese china is used, and as to the things to eat there can
be offered thin sardine sandwiches, delicate wafers, fruits,
confections. This is merely a suggestion; individuals use their own
ideas, and at different places customs change. Ices served should be in
oblong squares with round red centers to represent the flag of Japan.
Souvenirs for guests, if any are given, ought to be small cups and
saucers of the genuine ware or fac-simile in candy, tied with red and
white ribbons.

CHAPTER VIII.

TWO VALENTINE TEAS.

Here's to a cup of tea. It holds intoxication great for me.
I find it makes me want to dare
Do bold things right then and there;
To steal a kiss from Phyllis fair, as she pours tea.

Pink is the color scheme; the invitations are written on rose-tinted
cardboard, cut heart-shape and adorned with floral love-knots. The
hostess can wear a pink gown and the rosy-hue effect is also carried out
in the dining-room decorations. On a blank space of the wall have two
hearts formed of pink carnations and smilax, and pierced by a gilded
arrow. Beneath, on a pink cardboard, lettered in gold, have this verse:

"Love always looks for love again;
If ever single it is twain,
And till it finds its counterpart
It bears about an aching heart."

The long table, covered with snowy cloth, has the valentine idea in
heart design used as much as possible i