Before giving a description of the various dances, a hint or two as to the etiquette of the ballroom may be found useful.

In the case of a private dance, the guests, on entering the ballroom, must seek out the hostess and pay their respects to her and those who may be assisting her in receiving.

If it is a public ball, the gentleman conducts his partner to the ladies’ dressing room, and then proceeds to the gentlemen’s dressing room. When ready to descend to the ballroom, he seeks his partner at the door of the apartment where he previously left her; or, if a sitting room be provided in addition to the dressing room, the lady will meet her partner there. They then enter the ballroom, and the necessary introductions are made.

An introduction given for the mere purpose of enabling a lady and gentleman to go through a dance together does not constitute an acquaintanceship. The lady is at liberty to pass the gentleman in the street the next day without recognition.

No lady should accept refreshments from a stranger at a public ball, for she would thereby lay herself under a pecuniary obligation.

Good taste forbids that a lady should dance too frequently with the same partner at either a public or private ball.

Engagements for one dance should not be made while another dance is in progress.

Never attempt to take a place in a dance which has been previously engaged.

Withdraw from a private ballroom as quietly as possible.

It is not customary for married persons to dance together in society.

At the beginning and end of a lancers, the gentleman bows to his partner, and bows again on conducting her to a seat. He may stay and chat with her for a few moments.

Should a lady decline your hand for a dance, and afterward dance with another partner, you will do well to attribute her error to either forgetfulness or ignorance of the laws of etiquette.

A gentleman conducts his last partner to supper; waits upon her there, and then re-conducts her to the ballroom.

A gentleman escorting a lady to a party or ball, should invariably dance the first number with her, or offer to do so, and afterwards see that she is provided with a partner whenever she wishes to dance.

A gentleman may, with propriety, ask another gentleman, whether known to him or not, if he wishes a partner, then introduce him to his lady acquaintances.

The master of ceremonies is privileged to ask any lady or gentleman whether they wish to dance, make himself known, and procure partners for them if they so desire.