our theatres, properly so called, have
since that period confined themselves to subjects illustrative of
country life in plain and mountain, and to incidents which, though
happening at a distance, are known to occur.

No accidents arise. Our professors are very skilful, knowing the exact
quantities of electricity required for a given time, and at what rate
its power will decrease. Electricity in all its variations is thoroughly
understood by our electricians.

Electricity, indeed, now forms part of the studies of youth in general,
and its leading features form part of the early knowledge taught to both
girls and boys.

There are races and public games of all kinds, and, besides the fetes
and amusements given by private persons, there are balls and social
reunions given by the districts.

Even children have their parties and balls, to which they are taken from
four years of age and upwards. The labouring people, or poor, have
theirs. They go to work more cheerfully when they know that amusements
are to follow, and return to their labours with redoubled energy. They
are now contented and happy.

Old people, although allowed to attend the soirees of the young, have
parties of their own, to which none who have not passed a certain age
are admitted.

One day in the week is set apart for amusements of all kinds.

To the reunions given by the districts, all who have passed a certain
age are invited, every seven days, until the age of forty; after forty,
once in three weeks; after sixty, once in every six weeks. All who have
not passed their fortieth year are expected to attend these reunions.
Those who have passed forty may attend as often as they please.

INTRODUCTION OF STRANGERS.

Amongst these reunions there are balls and parties given on certain days
in every month, for the introduction of strangers coming from other
parts, who are received in a separate room by the Master of the
Ceremonies, or, as we say, "Introducer of Strangers." Having satisfied
himself of the status of the strangers, this officer announces the name
of the eldest and conducts him round the great room, where all the
company are assembled, which duty performed, he conducts the guest back
to the strangers' room, and then, having returned into the assembly-room,
asks if any one wished to make objection to the stranger's
reception. If none is made, the visitor is escorted back and presented
to the whole company, and the most distinguished