BALLS.
Invitations to a ball should be issued at least ten days in advance, in
order to give an opportunity to the men to clear away engagements; and
to women, time to prepare the artillery of their toilet. Cards of
invitation should be sent—not notes.
Upon the entrance of ladies, or persons entitled to deference, the
master of the house precedes them across the room: he addresses
compliments to them, and will lose his life to procure them seats.
While dancing with a lady whom you have never seen before, you should
not talk to her much.
The master of the ceremonies must take care that every lady dances, and
press into service for that purpose these young gentlemen who are
hanging round the room like fossils. If desired by him to dance with a
particular lady you should refuse on no account.
If you have no ear, that is, a false one, never dance.
To usurp the seat of a person who is dancing is the height of
incivility.
Never go to a public ball.