same is merely a question of expense. Thus guests have
the pleasure of listening to the strains of splendid bands, and also the
disappointment of hearing others far below the average.

As this fickle climate of ours is not to be counted upon for twenty-four
hours at a stretch to remain fine, it is seldom considered advisable to
have the whole of the refreshment tables out-of-doors, and thus only
ices, strawberries and cream, and ice cups are served out-of-doors; tea,
coffee, and the rest, with ices, strawberries and cream, being
invariably served within doors.

* * * * *

=Refreshment tables out-of-doors= considerably take off the strain from
the tables in the tea-rooms, especially during the first half-hour, when
the great rush is made in this direction. Again, should heavy rain set
in, the servants can easily remove pails of ice and bowls of
strawberries and cream out of harm's way. Even a large tent or marquee
is not considered altogether desirable for refreshments, as under a
burning sun the air within becomes over-heated and oppressive, while in
the case of a downpour the results are almost disastrous.

The popularity of garden-parties is incontestible in propitious weather.
A variety of reasons conduce to this; for one thing, movement is so
pleasant an exchange from the almost stationary position guests are
compelled to take up in a crowded drawing-room. Again, the number of
guests invited is so much greater than to an "at home," that the chance
of meeting a corresponding number of friends and acquaintances is
trebled; or, on the other hand, if but a few friends should be present
among the guests, yet the situation does not amount to isolation and
boredom; and the alternative of sitting under a shady tree or sauntering
about on the lawns listening to the strains of the band, is positive
enjoyment in comparison to sitting in the corner of a drawing-room
barricaded by a phalanx of ladies, or standing wedged in the midst of
the same. It is small wonder, therefore, that invitations to these
outdoor functions are hailed with satisfaction and pleasure.

* * * * *

=Arrivals at a garden-party= are made almost simultaneously, or if not
quite this, they follow in rapid succession, so that host and hostess
have a short interval between arrivals and departures; and this offers
an opportunity to give more than a shake of the hand to many of the
guests, _i.e.