to follow in quick succession. She is the cynosure of all eyes. With
what grace and tact she may discharge her pretty duties, or with what
awkwardness and evident distaste, none but a "chafing" audience can
really appreciate. Charming and at home on every other occasion, the
most finished society woman frequently feels completely lost in this
unwonted dipping into domestic service.

Perhaps one of the most embarrassing moments is when, the company
assembled, unconsciously expectant and usually most flatteringly
interested, the hostess prepares to fill and light the little lamp whose
flickering flame begins the ceremony. If the hostess is wise and
conversation seems to flag at this interesting moment, she will promptly
start the ball rolling and relieve the tension by some extemporaneous
remark, some light jest that will at least temporarily distract the
attention of the merry assemblage. But this over, there is still the
inconvenient delay before the water heats, the butter splutters and the
real preparing of the supper is begun, and remembering this and the
embarassing interval, even at the most informal supper the chafing-dish
course should be preceded by a little appetizer, or, to speak more
correctly, diverter, which will form a pleasant interlude, occupy in
part the attention of the guests and tend to promote the success of her
favorite dish by allowing her to proceed in its preparation undisturbed
by haste or excitement.

For this purpose something most appropriate to the supper must be
served, in order that, as according to the customs in ancient Rome, the
_piece de resistance_ may be emphasized and the appetite whetted, not
cloyed by the introductory viands.

Before the favorite Welsh rarebit, so rarely thought of in any
combination but with ale and indigestion, anchovy sandwiches garnished
with water cress will be found delicious, or sardines, chilled in lemon
juice, and offered with inch wide sandwiches of buttered Boston brown
bread may be served. Iced shaddock pulp, flavored with Maraschino, is an
excellent introduction to creamed chicken. Egg lemonade, clam cocktail,
raw oysters with stuffed mangoes, or some such light course can all be
easily prepared beforehand, and should be served most daintily,
individually, in order that no rapacious collegiate may inadvertently
regale himself with a second helping, and thereby too early spring the
epicurean trap so adroitly set for later refections.

The lamp lig