Visits amongst the upper and upper middle classes were rarely made without formality. Some of the normal practice is listed below Friendly calls should be made in the forenoon. Dress should be neat without the costliness of formal dress Calls to give invitations to Balls or Dinner Parties should be very short and paid in the afternoon Visits of condolence require a grave style of dress A formal visit should never be made before noon. If a second visitor is announced, it would be proper for you to retire unless the host expresses a wish for you to remain Visits after balls or parties should be made within a month In the latter it is customary to enclose your card in an envelope bearing the address outside. This may be sent by post if you reside at a distance If living within the neighbourhood it is polite to send your servant or to call in person. In the latter case a corner should be turned down on the envelope. Scrape your shoes and use the mat. Never appear in the drawing room with mud on your boots. When a new visitor appears in the room, if it be a gentleman the ladies bow slightly and if a lady the guests rise Hold your hat in your hand, unless requested to put it down. Then lay it beside you. The last arrival in a drawing room will take a seat left vacant next to the mistress of the house A lady is not required to rise to greet a gentleman nor to accompany him to the door When your visitor retires, ring the bell for the servant. You may then accompany your guest as far towards the door as the circumstances of your friendship seem to demand Gloves should not be removed during a visit A lady does not put her address on her visiting card