hooses.

After the noon meal he may do as he chooses through the afternoon,
appearing only at dinner, which is the formal meal of the day, and at
the general gathering of the family and guests in the evening. The
various members of the family are ready to show the visitors the
place, or the countryside, or play their favorite games during the
day; but there is no effort to make the entertainment formal or to
force it upon the guest. We do not wish to see even our most honored
guests or our dearest friends all of the time, and this arrangement
makes the meeting at dinner all the more enjoyed and valued.

Before inviting guests it is necessary to see to the comfort which is
represented in the guest chamber. This should be as dainty and
comfortable as any chamber in the house, and, in addition to the usual
furnishings, should have other fittings intended to supply all the
comforts of one's home. A full line of towels, toilet articles, and
even night robe, bathrobe, and slippers should be ready for the use of
the guest in the event that her trunk and suitcase do not arrive at
the expected time.

If the bed is fitted out with finery as well as with all the linen,
blankets, and comfortables which a well-set-up bed requires, the care
of the finery, its removal at night and folding up, should not be left
to the guest. This should be attended to before bedtime by the maid,
and the bed turned down ready for occupancy.

There should, of course, be vacant bureau drawers and wardrobe. The
guest, especially if her visit be for a short time, and she has not
brought her workbox, will much appreciate a small workbasket fitted
out with needles, thread, thimble, and scissors. A desk fitted with
stationery, pens, and postage stamps adds much to the comfort of a
guest chamber, for, no matter how brief the stay, facilities for
writing to the distant home are needed promptly and constantly.

The guest's comfort should be provided for before her entertainment or
amusement, and she should be made to feel perfectly at home in her
room, and her possession of it be absolute for the time of her stay.

It is a compliment to a guest to remember her favorite dishes, or to
arrange things to suit her known tastes and preferences.

It is the duty of the hostess to give the signal for retiring. This
should be done with a fine regard for the desires of guests, rather
than according to one's personal wishes.

_Special Duties of the Country Hostes