There are certain days alloted for certain classes of society to receive. Thus the families of justices of the Supreme Court are at home on Monday. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, as also other members, and the General of the Army keep open house on Tuesday. Wednesday is called Cabinet day, and the wife of each Secretary is expected to be at home on the afternoon of that day. Saturday is thus left as reception day at the White House.
Guests always hand their cards to the usher at all receptions.
These receptions are designed to answer in lieu of calling upon strangers who go to Washington. As in theory every citizen has helped elect an official, and is entitled to some recognition, at their hands, and as it would be manifestly impossible for the families of public officials to call first on the many strangers who visit our capital, it has grown into a custom for our officials to throw open their houses, on certain days, thus affording all a chance to be present at these informal receptions. It is a fact that the privilege which is thus afforded transient visitors is sadly abused, and people will intrude upon those with whom they have nothing in common, and to whose social circle they could never under any other circumstances, gain admission. It argues a lack of delicacy of feeling, and is a rudeness which will not be perpetrated by refined ladies or gen-tlmen. We do not refer now to the receptions.