J til 111 I? A i:^:^ bVi:.m.'i €■•: > LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. Chap. Copyright No. Shelf..jli„'i.3 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. { EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS Eighty Pleasant Evenings Compiled by The Press Committee of Deems Memorial Chris- tian Endeavor Society of Immanuel Church Lilian M. Heath, Chairman Florence M. Kingsley Belle H. Miller Ella C. Doremus Ella A. Boole, A.M. United Society of Christian Endeavor Boston and Chicago ^^ 140/1 Copyright^ i8g8y By United Society of Christian Endeavor TWO COPIES RECtTvED. Colonial Electrotyped and Printed by C. H, Simonds dr* Co. Boston, U. S. A. 2n V"^^n> 189t?. PREFACE. « I WONDER why she did it," said the flower, reflec- tively. It spoke aloud without knowing it. The gar- dener's daughter heard it and smiled, for she knew what the flower meant. It had been carefully planted, watered, and cared for, but had somehow forgotten to hold up its head and breathe in the sunlight. Instead, it had drooped disconsolately, because its petals were less brightly colored than those of its neighbors, or its foli- age less beautiful than that of others, or because it did not occupy the centre of the garden, or because — well, nobody but the gardener and his daughter can tell just what was the reason. It had drooped, and after a while even the sunlight appeared to have forgotten it. A thicket of weeds grew up around it and almost choked the flower, taking a malicious delight in its discourage- ment. Finally, the gardener's daughter remembered it. She went to it and cleared away the weeds, that the sun might reach it once more. Tl^e surprised little flower tried to thank her, but onl^^ succeeded in asking, "Why?" How could she think it worth while? it wondered. "Do you want to know why?" whispered the gar- 3 4 PREFACE, dener's daughter. " Because flowers are God's thoughts. I wanted to help you to grow strong and beautiful for him." And the flower did not disappoint her. Are not human souls, even more truly than flowers, "God's thoughts".? It cannot be time wasted to help them grow; and one of the helps is the sunshine of intelligent sympathy and cheery companionship. It is not for the young alone, not for the cultured and fortu- nate alone. Every soul that ever lived needs sunshine in order to grow into the bright and harmonious life that God intended for it. Then only can it reach and bless other lives with a like helpfulness. Farewell to the weeds of selfishness and despondency; it is time for the sun to shine in! Many workers are already clearing the way, with patient and loving hands, deem- ing the work not less sacred in its way than that of the prayer meeting. We ask for a place among these, that through " Eighty Pleasant Evenings " we may help, in some measure, to find and develop " God's thoughts," which are too often struggling for existence against many obstacles. We would help them to be free once more, and to " grow strong and beautiful — for him." L. M. H. To Our Friends and the Public : The compilers wish to acknowledge, with sincere thanks, the aid rendered by various friends in the prep- aration of " Eighty Pleasant Evenings." While half of the socials were devised by members of the com- mittee, the material for the remaining half was selected from various outside sources. Our thanks are due, for assistance other than that credited elsewhere, to Mr. A. M. Harris, Mr. Knight L. Clapp, Miss Alice Chadwick, Mr. and Mrs. A. R. Heath, Miss Euphemia P. Gregory, Mr. J. Arthur Funk, Miss Blanche Cutler, Miss E. Louise Doremus, Mr. A. T. Doremus, Mrs. Amelia D. Alden, Miss Helen S. Daley, and The Christian Endeavor World. It will be noticed that each social or entertainment forms a complete evening in itself, that there are no isolated games or exercises. Of course, this fact does not debar any one from exchanging, combining, omit- ting, or in other ways altering special features of any evening described. Where programmes are longer than desired, or where a game mentioned in a different social is preferred, the change can be readily made, adapting the material to local needs. It was thought better, therefore, to make each social as complete as possible, for the convenience of busy workers generally. The 5 6 PREFATORY NOTE. suggestions are for the most part tried and proved successes, largely so tested in the community where compiled. They are intended for Christian Endeavor and church workers, also for the Young Woman's Christian Temperance Union and similar temperance societies ; for, if there is any one class that is beginning more than others to realize the need of " pleasant even- ings," it is the reformers. The Juniors have a place; the reading circles, the good-literature, press, missionary, and flower committees have been remembered; and it is hoped that this little work will find a general wel- come, and for many occasions prove useful. With these few words of greeting, acknowledgment, and explanation, we would invite the reading of what is to follow, and sign ourselves, in the cause of Christian sociability. The Press Committee of Deems Memorial Christian Endeavor Society of Immanuel Church, ALPHABETICAL INDEX. Accidental Social . .51 Animal Social . . . . . . . -52 Authors, Evening with 66 Arctic Exploring Tour iii Barmecide Banquet . 13 Bean Social 21 Belated Picnic 98 Boston's Most Celebrated Attraction, Evening with . 21 Boston Suburb Social .96 Building Evening . . . . . . . . 22 Buttercup Social 35 California Shake Social 32 Celebrity Social . . . . . ^ . . -51 Ceres Evening 57 Characteristics, Evening of 62 Chautauqua Evening, German-Roman Year . . .102 Chautauqua Lawn Social, French-Greek Year . . 86 Chinese Social 19 Chinese Social, No. 2 47 Ching Lee's Unworthy Compliments . . . .72 Chocolataire 28 Christian Endeavor World, Evening with . . 'US Christmas Social 74 Christmas Stocking Party 43 7 8 ALPHABETICAL INDEX. College Social 32 Colonial Social 34 Cotton Social 45 Crystal Social 25 Cuban Social . 68 Dime Social . . . . . . . . '39 Due Tea . . . . ... . . '91 Dutch Evening .... . ... 94 Echo Meeting 76 Eggs-ellent Plan . . . . . . . -75 Evening with Animals . . . . . . -52 Evening with Authors ....... 66 Evening with Boston's Most Celebrated Attraction . 21 Evening with Ceres 57 Evening of Characteristics 62 Evening with The Christian Endeavor World . -US Evening with the Fairies . . . . . '72 Evening with Father Time . . . . . .11 Evening with Eugene Field . . . . . . '83 Evening with Flora 38 Evening in Holland .94 Evening with " Jack " 46 Evening with Jack o' Dreams ..... 109 Evening with Lincoln . . . . . . > ^1 Evening with Longfellow . . . . . .96 Evening with Schiller . ' 107 Evening of Short Cuts . . . . . . .110 Evening with the Trees 114 Fairies, Evening with the 72 Father Time, Evening with 11 Festival of the Trades ........ 37 Field, Evening with Eugene 83 Flora, Evening with 38 Flower Social . . . . . . . -103 Forest Social 54 ALPHABETICAL INDEX. 9 Fragaria Virginiana Revel 64 Gate Social 48 Grandmother Gray's Reception 67 Hallowe'en Entertainment 48 Hidden Musicale 100 Hindoo Social . 27 Holland, Evening in 94 International Social 30 Italian Social •41 Jack o' Dreams 109 ''Jack" Social 46 King Cotton's Reception 45 Klondike Social . . 51 Klondike Social, No. 2 90 Labor Social 37 Lincoln Evening . . . . . . . -17 Longfellow's Dream . 112 Longfellow Evening 96 Longfellow Guessing-Bee 24 Marine Social • 83 Midmnter Excursion . 58 Missionary Social 95 Musicale, Hidden 100 New Year's Social 11 Palm Social 29 Paper Social 18 Patriotic Social 63 Pearl Social 20 Picnic, Belated 98 Plantation Social 45 Poppy Social . . . 109 Press Social 15 Press Social, No. 2 24 Progressive Social 76 Proverb Social 87 10 ALPHABETICAL INDEX. Rose Social 93 Schiller, Evening with 107 Short Cuts, Evening of 110 Snowball Party .42 Spinning Social • 99 Spring Tour . . . 88 State Social . . . . . . . . .87 Strawberry Social 64 Temperance Talking Party 23 Trade Social * » * Zl Trees, Evening with the . . . ... 114 Trio Social . . . 107 Twisted Social 80 Village Improvement Social 56 Washington's Birthday Social 12 Wheel Social . . . 104 Willard Evening . . 103 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. A New Year's SociaL Two persons, perhaps the president and the vice- president, should be prepared to represent Father Time and Lady New Year. Father Time's costume may be a long dark robe, a voluminous snow-white beard, and a wig to match. Lady New Year is dressed in white Grecian costume with gilt or silver border and girdle, and a coronet or Grecian bandeaux in the hair. The opening speech, by Father Time, should briefly review the chief events of the past year, and introduce Lady New Year, who follows with a prophecy appro- priate to the hopes and plans of the society for the coming year, and then introduces, in her turn, four other speakers. These should be officers, committee chairmen, or other active members thoroughly familiar with the society's work. Each is dressed to represent a different season of the year, and speaks for five min- utes on "The Best Season for Our Society to Work, and Why." The endeavor of each speaker is to prove his own season the most fitting for active work by the society, showing how many kinds of work may be under- taken at that time, etc. The company decide by vote on the one who makes the best argument. The winner is then presented, by 11 12 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. Father Time, with a pretty calendar containing artistic or literary suggestions pertaining to the interests of the church or society. This may be varied by having the twelve months instead of the seasons. The dress may be elaborate in effect, or as simple as usual, with only a sash or badge containing the name of the month, and suitable flowers, — a sprig of holly for December, etc. Refreshments may be cake and chocolate with white paper napkins on which are printed the date and " A Happy New Year." Close with a New Year's chorus, in which all can join. l. m. h. A Washington's Birthday SocfaL Invitations are worded in the usual form, with the word " Costume " in the lower left-hand corner. These costumes may be simple or elaborate, the essential points being powdered hair for all, kerchiefs, and black court-plaster patches for the ladies, and for the gentle- men long hose, knee-breeches, buckled slippers, and lace ruffles in coat-sleeves. Hanging in a conspicuous place should be a life-size portrait of George Washing- ton, framed in evergreen or in red, white, and blue- Flags and draperies of bunting may be added as deco- rations, wherever desired. Pin the name of some famous Revolutionary character to the back of each guest, and require him to guess his own identity by means of conversational hints from various sources. Sheets of paper, with dainty pencils attached by means of narrow parti-colored ribbon, should be pre- viously prepared. The first page may be decorated EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 1 3 with a flag and a patriotic motto. On the inner pages are eight or ten questions or topics for conversation, each numbered, with a space below it for the name of a partner. Each guest engages, or is engaged by, a different partner for each topic. When arranged, all converse five minutes on each topic, beginning, ending, and changing partners and topics at the tap of a bell. Peanut-shells may be provided, split and tied with narrow ribbon, and containing slips of paper on each of which is written half of the name of a State. These are passed and matched to find partners for refresh- ments. Just before serving the cake, coffee, and ice- cream, a march should be introduced ; and the evening may close appropriately with the singing of patriotic songs. A Barmecide Banquet* The following plan has been successfully tested. Send out combined invitations and programmes, written on the first and third, or the two inside, pages of ordinary note-paper. The invitations read : — Dear Friend: 'T would be downright treason To open the holiday season By failing to share, Be it stormy or fair, In our feast of fun and reason At the residence of Miss Evening, , 189 — . 14 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENIAGS. The programme page may be as follows : — MENU. Consomme a la Galop. Pressed Tongue. Saratoga Chips. Roast Turkey. Yosemite Sauce. Game. Plum Pudding or Jack Horner's Pie. Scotch Marmalade. We give the interpretation. First course : " Consomme a la Galop," a lively piano selection. Second course : " Pressed Tongue," the reading of several short extracts from current literature ; or a bright talk from some one not a member of the society, thus " pressed " into service, might be sub- stituted ; " Roast Turkey," a paper or debate on the Eastern situation at the close of the war between Turkey and Greece; <' Yosemite Sauce," a reading from Gunnison's '' Rambles Overland," giving his delightful description of the Yosemite ; *' Saratoga Chips," selected readings from Josiah Allen's Wife's " Samantha at Saratoga ; " and " Gam.e," which might be any general exercise preferred, but was, in the instance referred to, the game of " Book Reviewing " described in " Press Social No. 2," EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. I 5 Third course, " Plum Pudding, or Jack Horner's Pie," consists of a handful of pop-corn for each guest, placed in a violet-colored napkin with pansy border, a slip of paper inserted containing a written quotation, and the whole gathered up and tied with a narrow pink, red, or yellow ribbon. These present a remarkably pretty appearance when passed. Any delicate color will answer for the napkins, but the pansies are desirable as suggestive of thoughts. The guests are instructed to untie the napkins and follow Jack Horner's example, the '* plums " being the quotations, which are read aloud during the eating of the pop-corn, and should be of a witty or humorous character. The last course, " Scotch Marmalade," is the singing of a Scotch song, and a reading from "Ian Maclaren," Barrie, Macdonald, or some other popular Scotch dia- lect writer. A verse of " Auld Lang Syne " is an appropriate close. L. m. h. A Press SociaL This is partly original and partly suggested by The Golden Rule, Edit an oral newspaper, with your president or some ready speaker in charge as editor-in-chief, to explain and conduct matters. For the editorial page, have several four-minute papers or addresses, from the pas- tor and other " contributing editors," on topics of general or current interest. The page in charge of the " news editor " should consist of selected clippings and written items, either local or of wider range, concerning the work of the organization. 1 6 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, A department of '' Personals " is amusing, if planned long in advance. It consists of head-lines and short but thrilling incidents clipped from newspapers, regard- ing people whose names chance to be the same as those of certain members of your society. Collected and pasted on a card or sheet of paper, they can be read by the editor of the department, and afterwards passed around, to satisfy any who may suspect him of improvising. For your literary page have one good short story, original if possible, written in advance by your best home talent ; or, failing this, read a selected one. Impromptu attempts at its pictorial illustration follow. For the best sketch thus made, an illustrated book, such as " A Daily Message for Christian Endeavorers," was once given ; and to the least successful artist, a porous plaster, warranted to draw. For your advertising columns, prepare in advance a list of familiar modern advertisements, retaining the phraseology, but substituting the name or initials of your organization for the thing advertised ; as, " Life is a constant battle, made easier by using C. E." Appro- priate literature may be displayed on a table ; the foreign and curiously printed newspapers predominating. Serve " pressed refreshments," consisting of lemonade (pressed lemons) and pressed chicken sandwiches, to which may be added ice-cream pressed into bricks. Auction off some articles, like a pressed meat loaf, compressed yeast cakes, etc., toward the close of the evening. A suitably "pressing" form of invitation to this social would be as follows : — EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 1/ Dear Friend : The Press and Social Committees of Society express cordial greeting, and wish to impress upo.n your mind the fact that you are invited to a Press Social on Friday evening, April i, at the home of the chair- man of the Press Committee. We shall not attempt to repress our pleasure at seeing you, and you will receive a hearty press of the hand. Do not depress us by allowing pressure of business to prevent you from being present, but come and help us to have an evening of compressed enjoy- ment. You will find us, as ever, irrepressible. Expressively yours, Press and Social Committees. N. B. Pressed refreshments will be served. A Lincoln Evenings This should be made a good-citizenship social. Dec- orate with red, white, and blue draperies, and have a statuette or bust of Lincoln in a conspicuous place, with a background of evergreen shaped like a shield. The following programme may be rendered. Music. Paper. " Lincoln's Boyhood and Youth." Paper or Address. " Lincoln as a Citizen." Reading. " Incidents of Lincoln's Life as President." Music. Reading. Extract from Lincoln's Speech, No. 30 in « Platform Pearls " (published by the Funk & Wagnalls Company, New York City). Address by the Pastor. " Secrets of Lincoln's Success." Music. Small paper flags, colored with the stars and stripes on one side, and white on the other, may have written on 1 8 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. the white side a " good-citizenship " conversation topic ; as, for instance, "What would be Lincoln's attitude toward the liquor traffic of to-day ? " " The modern slave," "Is patriotic citizenship declining?" " The sa- loon, the church, and the ballot-box," " How to cultivate patriotism," " Analogy between war with Spain and war with the saloon," " Is America free ? " etc. There should be four flags in each set, worded alike. Dis- tribute the flags, and let each group of four find one an- other and discuss for ten minutes the topic falling to them. During this time refreshments may be served. Close the evening with familiar patriotic songs, inter- spersed with a few selections from " Silver Tones," the " Clarion Call," or some similar selection of stirring temperance music. l. m. h. A Paper SociaL Let some one describe the Japanese, dwellings, etc., made of paper. A talk of this kind can be appropriately aided with stereopticon or other views. Tissue-paper decorations are in order, including lamp- shades, flowers, and ribbons of the same material. In one of the parlors candles may be used as lights, and everything may be violet in color, including the tissue- paper frill decorating each candle where it is inserted in the holder. In the main room should be a literature table, also tables containing paper and papier-machd articles for sale. If desired, the idea may extend to the costumes, each lady on the committee wearing a tissue-paper dress ; and for one of the games, fancy tissue-paper caps of odd EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 1 9 shapes may be provided and hidden in various out-of- the-way corners, preferably in the " violet room," where the light is a little subdued. Toward the close, have a hunt for the invisible caps, which are then worn by the finders for the rest of the evening. The game, or puzzle, of " missionary and cannibal " will interest some. Six slips of paper are prepared, three of them longer than the others. The longer three are called missionaries ; the others, cannibals. The aim is to so place the slips, two at a time, that one missionary shall escort his five fellow travellers successively across an imaginary river, in a boat that holds but one besides himself, v/ithout leaving the cannibals in the majority on either side. If successful, the missionaries are said to have converted the cannibals. If otherwise, the canni- bals will devour the missionaries. Serve confectionery in tissue-paper boats ; or if more substantial lunch be chosen, serve it on papier-machd plates, with paper napkins folded in fancy shapes. L. M. H. A Climese Socials Chinese lanterns are the only decorations. A table may contain Chinese curios, including specimens of Chinese art and literature. Photographs of missiona- ries in China may be added, and after an introductory speech by the chairman, each member of the committee may read a letter from one of these missionaries, if ob- tainable, or an extract from some published description of their travels and work. Better still, have an address from a returned missionary who has been prevailed upon to be present. 20 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. Sliced cards with narrow yellow ribbons tied in one corner may contain Chinese characters to be fitted to- gether with the aid, if possible, of a student of the language. Rice and tea should be the only refresh- ments, and those who wish may try the experiment of eating the rice in true Chinese fashion, with chopsticks. Two Juniors may play the piano duet " Chopsticks." A collection should be taken, or a sale of pincushions made of Chinese dolls could be held instead, with the proceeds to be devoted to the aid of Chinese missiona- ries ; and, if desired, a contest of answers to questions on China may be conducted, the winner to be presented with a cup and saucer or other dainty piece of china, as a reward. A Pearl Social* Provide pearl-tinted cards, and write on each a choice Scripture or other quotation suggestive of temperance reform and related topics. As an example, take Frances E. Willard's saying, " The golden rule of Christ will bring the golden age of man." Cut each card in two diagonally, distribute them, and let the people find their partners accordingly. Then have this " string of pearls," as they may be called, read aloud, after allowing five minutes for conversation on the subjects which they will suggest. One or two musical selections can be here in- serted. Two recitations from '•'- Platform Pearls " follow. A short talk, if obtainable, from some one who knows all about pearls and diving, will be entertaining, and should lead to questions and general discussion of the subject. If a diver's suit, etc., can be exhibited in this EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 21 connection, it will add to the interest. A good magazine article treating of pearl-divers and their work may be substituted if there is no one sufficiently posted to speak extemporaneously on the subject. The last part of the programme, after another musical selection, may be an address by the pastor or president of the society, on " the pearl of great price," in which it will be easy to introduce thoughts on the formation of pearls of character through the irritation of trials and afflictions, etc. The refreshments may be principally oysters; for these, if served in various styles, a charge should be made. L. M. H. An Evening with Boston^s Most Celebrated Attraction* That is what it is called in the invitations. If it proves to be a " bean social," who can find fault ? Begin with a piano or violin solo, followed by a short address on the subject of the festive bean. There may be a reading, preferably the chapter, somewhat abridged, on "A Fifty-Mile Walk" in Gunnison's "Rambles Over- land," as this combines fine literary style, good descrip- tions of scenery, and beans. '' The Modern Jack and the Beanstalk" may be the subject of a paper comparing in detail the adventures of the well-known hero with those of the modern and equally aspiring struggler for fame, fortune, or, better still, success in some line of missionary or temperance work. This may be followed by the game " Jack and the beans talk." The leader, Jack, asks a question of each person in the room. The reply must be neither " Yes " nor " No," and must begin 22 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, with some letter contained in the word " bean." Any player failing to answer promptly must take the place of the questioner. Place a handful of beans in a small jar or bottle, and let every one guess as to the number. Have six or more different colored bean-bags pre- pared, and try several forms of that game ; passing the bags rapidly from hand to hand, throwing them to per- sons across the room, or aiming at an open box or an opening in an inclined plank, with a certain number of throws and some one to keep tally. A suitable reward for the observing eye and accurate aim in these games would be a holder, embroidered on one side with a spray of the flowering bean, and on the other with the words " Bean-Porridge Hot." For refreshments serv^e Boston baked beans, brown bread and butter, and coffee. There might be a sale of baked beans in cans. l. m. h. A Building Evening* Begin with instrumental music, followed by a paper, talk, or reading on some interesting phase of architecture, ancient or modern. Pictures of famous buildings may be displayed on walls or tables, and the literature com- mittee may conduct the company on an imaginary tour to visit some of the most remarkable of them. Holmes's " Chambered Nautilus," Longfellow's " Building of the Ship," or some other " building poem " may be sliced or dissected and the fragments passed for those present to arrange in proper sequence, comparing notes and finding seats accordingly. The poem may then be read by a member of the committee. EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 23 Another game which may either follow or precede the " dissected poem " is the " tower of excuses." The leader relates his imaginary experiences in building a tower, first having assigned to the other players the parts of mason, carpenter, glazier, plumber, electrician, etc. When he tells how each workman failed to fulfil his contract, the player alluded to must interrupt the story with an instant excuse before the next workman is mentioned. Those who fail thus to give an excuse may be sentenced, according to the discretion of the judge, to a fine or imprisonment with hard labor, or both. In other words, they must pay a forfeit, consisting either of a small contribution to your church-building fund, or of banishment to an adjoining room until they shall have succeeded in building a tower of some kind. The tower may be built of anything at hand, such as books, hats, umbrellas, chairs, newspapers, etc. Serve refreshments of layer cake, and ice-cream in bricks ; and close the evening with two or three vocal selections. Two especially good ones would be " I Built a Bridge of Fancies," and " Building for Eter- nity." L. M. H. A Temperance Talking Part>%' Appoint a committee to give each member questions on our reasons for being total abstainers, the questions bringing out the effects of alcohol on the body, mind, character, and the nation ; the information to be given in conversation, and the one not bringing in her or his * The description of this social was kindly furnished by Miss Margaret Tyler, the assistant secretary of the Massachusetts Young Woman's Branch of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union. 24 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. answers in the conversation to pay a forfeit, the com- mittee keeping record. The conversation may be for half an hour. Mtcsic. "The Fruit of the Vine,'* Y Song Book. Paper. " What is the next step in Anti- Saloon Warfare ? " Five minutes. Singing. " Only a Glass," Y Song Book. Paper. " Neal Dow's Chief Characteristics." Ten minutes. Or "The Young Woman's Christian Temperance Union as an Eye-Opener." A Longfellow Guessing-Bee*^ Each member is provided with a neat little card and pencil, and twelve selections are read from Longfellow's poems by one of the members. The others are to guess from which poem they were taken, and write down their guesses on the card. The one guessing the greatest number correctly is allowed as a reward to choose her favorite of Longfellow's poems, which is then read entire by one of the members. Press Social, No# 2* This is a variation, in several respects, from the other press social suggested. In fact, the " newspaper " may be entirely omitted from the exercise, leaving no resem- blance whatever. Instead of the literature table, have a table containing a collection of photographs or other pictures — those cut from magazines or papers will an- 1 The description of this social was kindly furnished by Miss Margaret Tyler, the assistant secretary of the Massachusetts Young Woman's Branch of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union. EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 25 swer — of well-known editors. Number these pictures, distribute blank cards with corresponding numbers, and have a guessing contest. The one who correctly fills in the greatest number of editors' names, with correspond- ing names of the journals edited, receives, in reward, a book, a photograph-case, or a collection of photographs. Play the game of *' Book Reviewing," as follows : Each person writes the name of a book, folds the paper over to conceal what is written, and passes it to his neighbor, who writes the name of an author, in turn folding and passing it. The third writes one or more " opinions of the press," or, in other words, reviews the book, of course without knowing what it is. Engage the entire company thus, and the results, when read aloud, are sure to be amusing. Arrange to have platform scales present, and invite every one to come and " press " them down, or to be weighed, at a tax of one cent for each ten pounds. The refreshments are pressed pop-corn balls and lemonade. Elaborate decorations may be introduced, but should be entirely of newspapers, festooned, draped, fringed, wound, strung, made into flowers or rosettes ; and most effective of all, the press committee may wear costumes made of the same material. Music may be interspersed with the exercises, and the chairman of the press com- mittee should make a brief speech at some time during the evening, explaining the purpose and progress of the society's press work. A Crystal Social. White, pink, or violet tissue-paper decorations, with all the glass vases and other glass ornaments available, 26 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, create a pretty effect, and there should be a fancifully draped mirror, and a table of curios displaying special triumphs of the glass-blower's art. The following pro- gramme is suggested : — 1. Music, From violin, piano, or, if possible, "musical glasses." 2. History of glass-making. 3. Descriptive paper or reading, "The Crystal Palace." 4. Scenes from "Cinderella." ( Tableaux or shadow pan- tomime, with music.) 5. Recitation. " Pledge with Wine," or other temperance selection alluding to the wine-glass. 6. Singing. " Only a Glass," from the Y Song Book. 7. Address by pastor or president,^ "Living in Glass Houses." This may be either followed or preceded by a micro- scope exhibition, a mirror " observation test," and a rhyming contest. The microscope is interesting to many not familiar with study of the sciences. A pro- fessor or advanced student should select the specimens to be examined, and give a little explanation of each. The mirror test is conducted as follows : Each person is led in turn up to the mirror, and is given ten seconds to observe all that he can by looking therein. He is then led away, and writes on a card the list of articles seen. The one whose card shows the most numerous observations, receives by way of reward some pretty trifle in glassware, while the least observing may be presented with a pair of paper spectacles. The rhym- ing contest gives the honors to the one who succeeds in writing the best original verse of not less than eight lines, the alternate lines rhyming with ''glass," EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 2/ Lemonade, wafers, and delicate custards, ices, or lemon jelly, served in glass dishes, form the refresh- ments. A collection may be taken in a glass bowl or plate, or there may be a sale of useful and pretty glass articles. l. m. h. A Hindoo SociaL Devote the first half-hour to introductions, conversa- tion, and examination of the curios and carefully labelled photographs from India. Introduce, under a Hindoo name, a member of the society dressed to represent a high-caste Hindoo lady. Her conversation, with its assumed foreign accent and broken English, should carry out the illusion. Each member of the missionary committee may read, as in the Chinese social, some let- ter or extract of interest from the field of mission work in India. One or tw^o musical selections, vocal or instru- mental, may be inserted to add variety. Have a map- drawing contest, each guest being required to draw from memory a map of India. The most successful is pre- sented with some pretty souvenir ; and the least success- ful, with an ordinary india-rubber eraser. Serve rice with curry sauce, and tea, as the only re- freshments. Flowers may be used as decorations, and potted plants of a tropical appearance are especially suitable. At a social of this kind once held, an auction sale was introduced, where the auctioneer solemnly assured his prospective customers that the layer cake which he was offering them was undoubtedly supplied with filling of india-rubber. It sold, nevertheless, at a good price. 28 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. A ''Chocolataire/^ In this social the decorations are all of a purple or violet hue — flowers, paper napkins, ribbon bows on the waitresses' caps and aprons, etc. The lights are from candles in silver candlesticks decorated with violet tissue- paper frills. Two or three of the ladies act as host- esses and pour the chocolate, while five or six girls or young ladies are waitresses. The first hour is spent in conversation, and in listening to as fine a musical pro- gramme, both vocal and instrumental, as can be arranged, including not only the best musical talent from within the society, but some from outside. Then serve the refreshments, which are chocolate with whipped cream, chocolate layer cake or other cake with choco- late icing, and candies. Charge twenty-five cents for the refreshments complete, or fifteen cents for the chocolate and cream alone ; and give a small cup and saucer as a souvenir to each guest purchasing chocolate. After all have been served, have an auction sale of the remaining candy, loaves of cake, and boxes or cakes of chocolate from which the delectable food and drink were prepared. Invitations sent out in advance should mention the souvenir cup and saucer given to each guest purchasing refreshments. If thought desirable, the best parts of the musical programme may be reserved for the closing features of the evening, announcements being made accordingly. EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 2g A Palm Social This is a warm-weather social. Decorate with potted palms and have a generous supply of palm-leaf fans. If any of the committee wear silk waists or cotton dresses v/ith a palm-leaf figured effect, so much the better. An essay, story, chalk-talk, or stereoptlcon address on " A Journey in the Land of the Palm Trees " can be made entertaining, but should not be very long. In connection with this, pictures of the cocoanut-palm especially may be shown. Then the guests are con- ducted, in groups of a few at a time, into a room a little darkened, where a member of the society, disguised in gypsy costume, tells the fortune of each in turn, at a charge of ^v^ cents, or whatever they please to give. The " fortunes " are told from the lines on the palm of the hand, and should foretell marvellous achievements in the direction of work for the society, combined with humorous adventures and catastrophes, all adapted to the known tendencies, talents, and habits of the individual. These "fortunes," if conducted by a bright, ready talker, possessed of tact as well as wit, will furnish material enough for conversation and merriment among the main body of the guests as fast as the successive groups return and new ones take their places. A gypsy song, such as " Esmeralda," may be rendered as a solo, either before or after the gypsy's reign ; or it can be in- serted during the waiting period before the first group returns, if the rooms are somewhat separated as to the penetration of sound. Serve ice-cream, cocoanut cake, and iced lemonade for refreshments. l. m. h. 30 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. An International Social* Collect a dozen or more pictures representing noted buildings or characteristic scenery of as many different countries. Number, but do not label, them. Arrange them about the room, on walls, mantels, etc., and provide each guest with a programme, pencil, and a card, num- bered to correspond with the pictures, each card contain- ing all the numbers. Require them to guess from what nation each scene is taken, and write their guesses opposite the list of numbers on the cards. At the close of a half-hour, collect the cards; and, while they are being examined by the committee, have the musical part of the programme. This should consist entirely of national airs, played as a medley, or singly with variations ; or they may be sung by ladies or girls dressed in appropriate costume. Germany, France, Italy, England, Ireland, Scotland, and America would all be capable of bright representation in song and dress. " Hidden Nations," or, as The Voice gives it, " A Tour of Nations," may be introduced. We give with one variation the list published in that paper, from which the idea will be readily taken. The game may be conducted orally or in written form. If rewards are given, in this or the former contest, they may consist of small flags, or of other patriotic emblems. A TOUR OF NATIONS. 1. Nation from which we start : Germination. 2. Actors' nation : Impersonation. 3. Nation for criminals : Condemnation. 4. Murderers' nation : Assassination. EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 3 I 5. Nation for astonished people : Consternation. 6. Nation for rulers : Domination. 7. Nation for pests : Extermination. 8. Nation for their subjects : Subordination. 9. Nation provoking disapproval : Abomination. 10. Teachers' nation : Explanation. 1 1 . Their pupils' nation : Examination. 12. The rebels' nation : Alienation. 13. Nation for labor unions : Combination. 14. Nation for unwilling people: Declination. 15. Nation for smallpox patients : Vaccination. 16. Soothsayers' nation : Divination. 1 7. A floral nation : Carnation. 18. A politicians' nation : Nomination. 19. Nation for contagious disease : Contamination. 20. Nation for seed-sowers : Dissemination. 21. Nation for deer : Stagnation. 22. Nation for the resolute : Determination. 23. Nation for choir boys : Intonation. 24. Nation for a new king : Coronation. 25. Nation for the deluded : Hallucination. 26. The poets' nation : Imagination. 27. Nation for travellers : Destination. 28. Nation for those whose official usefulness is ended : Resignation. 29. Nation for benevolent people : Donation. 30. A charming nation : Fascination. 31. A nation of sects : Denomination. 32. The critics' nation : Discrimination. 33. The nation at the climax : Culmination. 34. The nation we have now reached : Termi- nation. 32 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, The lunch or supper may include one or more articles of food supposed to be from each of the several promi- nent countries: French rolls, omelet, and coffee; Ger- man sausage or pretzels ; Irish potatoes ; English roast beef or plum pudding; macaroni, spaghetti, or fruits from Italy; Scotch oatmeal "parritch"; and Yankee doughnuts, succotash, or pumpkin pie. Or there may be separate tables with a complete bill of fare, and a waitress in costume for each nation, thus giving a wide choice. The latter way is most profitable, as some will pay for several suppers before leaving. Both the supper- room and the parlors should be tastefully draped with flags of the various nations, and a stirring march may be played when supper is announced. A ** California Shake ^ SociaL Decorations should, if possible, include some sugges- tions of California, either in flowers, curios, or pictures. Begin with music, and have a short literary programme, including a paper or address on some phase of Cali- fornia life. Refreshments are served on " shakes. " These are thin shingles one foot long and six inches wide, decorated with a ribbon bow. They were used originally, we believe, in a Christian Endeavor social given by the First English Lutheran Church of Oakland, Cal. The Endeavorers secured the autographs of their friends on their " shakes," and carried them away as souvenirs. A College Social* This is especially adapted to the purposes of tem- perance or missionary committees, the Young Woman's EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 33 Christian Temperance Union, etc. It is best held in a large room, the chapel or church parlors, rather than a private house. College seniors and graduates may wear their picturesque caps and gowns, and the room should be decorated with the college colors ; those of Harvard draped on the wall at one side or corner, those of Wellesley at another, etc., till a half-dozen or more of the principal American colleges are thus represented. Place small tables around, with photographs of college buildings, scenery, and people, each table devoted to a different college, and arranged in its appropriate corner, with the special draperies corresponding. It will add to the interest if some person well informed on the subject is in charge of each table to explain the photographs and answer inquiries ; but if the pictures are carefully labelled, this may be dispensed with. The exercises may begin with two or three short ad- dresses on college athletics, the recent improved facilities for study of the sciences, the position of leading colleges on the temperance question, college life from a girl's point of view, etc., with a humorous recitation or bright story bearing on the subject. Then, for the main feature, have a written examination, with questions on church, mis- sionary, or temperance history, or on the society's work. Copying, instead of being forbidden, should be encouraged. All present are supposed by courtesy to be " author- ities " on some one or more of the subjects treated. Let the examination last three-quarters of an hour, with suitable rewards for the students who can report the greatest number of " authorities " consulted. Each stu- dent who is declared to have ^* passed " may be presented 34 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. with a diploma or certificate, tied with a ribbon, and containing, besides the usual testimonials, the hour and place of the society's regular meeting, with invitation to attend. Serve cocoa, wafers, and "fudges," or some similar college dainty, for the refreshments, and close with a succession of carefully selected college songs, such as " Fair Harvard," the Cornell " Alma Mater," etc. L. M. H. A Colonial Social* Have a log house if possible, of any size preferred, perhaps large enough to answer for the store of refresh- ments, in one corner of the church parlors or room where the social is to be held. This hut should be put together with sufficient care to stand any probable raids by Indians or others who may enter too enthusiastically into the spirit of the occasion. Costumes, of course, should be in the colonial style, and those who will take pains to do so may give a colonial quaintness to their speech in conversation throughout the evening. A " Priscilla " and an " Evangeline " will be as picturesque for the waitresses as the more richly clad dames who preside at the antique silver tea-urns. Do not forget the importance of powdered hair and kerchiefs. An Indian or two, with blanket, feathers, and tomahawk, will be impressive if appearing at some unexpected time. Have all the colonial relics that can be collected, including specimens of printing, needlework such as our grandmothers' "samplers," any stray fan, slipper, or glove formerly belonging to a colonial belle, etc. The EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 35 ear-rings worn at that period are some of them astonish- ing, and the old-fashioned medallion lockets are full of interest. Stories may be told concerning these relics; some one may give an account of John Eliot's work among the Indians, and of the first Bible and first newspaper ever printed in this country. Serve primitive refreshments, including the all-important tea. In such a social, the old-fashioned games like " blind man's buff " will be found to possess a new charm. Several songs, such as the " Old Oaken Bucket " may be selected, even if not strictly colonial ; and all present may join in the closing one, " America." L. m. h. A Buttercup Social* This can be made as simple or as elaborate as desired in the matter of decorations, etc. Paper ribbons and draperies of a clear, bright yellow may be used, or green foliage and vines, with clusters of buttercups here and there, and vases of the same flower. Buttercups should be worn by the committee. Waitresses may wear yellow bows on caps and aprons. Lamp-shades of the same color add to the effect. The buttercups are typical of sunshine and good cheer, as can easily be made evident. An address by the pastor or president, on " The Magic of Good Humor " may open the evening, followed by music and a recitation like " The Discontented Buttercup " or a humorous reading. Prepare cards on which are writ- ten questions on some missionary or temperance sub- jects, and other cards containing the answers; paint a buttercup on each, and distribute them, each holder 36 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, of a question to find the one with the answer. When all have found partners, announce five minutes for conversation on topics suggested by the cards held. Next, during a prelude played on piano, violin, or mandolin, a member of the society enters with a basket, and proceeds to sing the familiar " Little Buttercup" solo, from "Pinafore," only with a differ- ence. The song, as adapted, reads as fellows : — " IVe been to see Buttercup, dear little Buttercup, Once with the Pinafore's crew. She's left it forever for Christian Endeavor ; I hope she'll be loyal and true. " Now, such the conditions, her work for home missions Prevents her from coming to-night, But she gave me her basket, before I could ask it; The contents you'll view with delight." The song can then continue, if desired, by partially describing the contents of the basket in the words of the veritable " Little Buttercup." As the singer comes to the "ribbons and laces," etc., the wares should be displayed. They may include a number of small fancy and useful articles such as would be salable at fairs. Every one should have an opportunity to examine and purchase, as it is understood to be with the object of replenishing the society's treasury, or to be devoted to charitable uses. Refreshments may be lemonade, orange cake, candy " buttercups," or lemon drops, and oranges cut in two transversely to be eaten with spoons. The paper napkins may be yellow and white, or white with a buttercup painted in one corner. L. M. h. EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 37 A Labor Social; or, Festival of the Trades* This would be suitable for the evening of " Labor Day." If your society includes among its young men members a number of good singers, by all means have the " Anvil Chorus " from " II Trovatore." The rooms should be large. The singers, dressed to represent blacksmiths, with red flannel shirts and leather aprons, hammer in hand, enter and sing the chorus to a piano accompaniment. Anvils should be provided, and during the refrain the time is marked by regular blows on these with the hammers. Previous to the rendering of this chorus there may be other music and a short literary programme, such as the following. . I. Reading. Sidney Lanier's poem, " The Symphony." 2. Add7'ess. " Our Comrade, the Laborer." 3. Reading from Chapter 8 or 9 of Henderson's " Social Spirit in America." 4. Paper. " Manual Training in Schools " or " Sloyd." Then the '^ Anvil Chorus " may be introduced, after which games like the tower of excuses, described in the " Building Evening," may be played. There may be a sale of articles representing different handicrafts, in- cluding the sewing and cooking industries, the proceeds to start a fund in the society's treasury for the especial purpose of aiding an industrial school or similar insti- tution. If desired, a debate may be added to the programme, such as, " Resolved, That the omission of church privileges from settlements like the Ruskin community is the fault of the church." L. m. h. 38 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. An Evening with Flora^ " Dear Friend ; This invitation ponder well. A little bird has told, as birds will tell, That on the Goddess Flora's Festal Day Bleak February changes into May. The time is now at hand, — the day, the hour, When you can test the bird's prophetic power. Come to the chapel, then, on Friday night, The twenty-sixth ; and, if the bird be right. Flora will grace our social with her charms That banish care and soothe all false alarms. Of course in person we can scarce expect her. But, while we serve ambrosial food and nectar, Or something more substantial, take our word, She '11 make you glad you listened to that bird. Three things bring with you, if you would be kind. And suit your gifts to royal Flora's mind. Bring smiles and brains and coins both large and small ; But of flower catalogues bring none at all. Or Flora '11 be offended, more 's the pity. " Yours, "Deems Memorial C. E. Flower Committee." These were the invitations used for a flower social given in February. In the chapel were potted plants as decorations, and the early part of the evening was given up to music, a floral recitation or two, and gen- eral conversation. During the latter part of the even- ing, we amused ourselves by writing "a floral love story." Sheets of note-paper, with programme pencils attached, were passed to the guests, and floral answers were given, so far as possible, to the list of numbered- questions found thereon. This exercise of the memory EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 39 and ingenuity is not a new one, but affords pleasure and opportunity for some variations. Cake and lemon- ade, or sandwiches and cocoa, may be the refreshments, while plates, cups, and napkins should, if convenient, bear floral designs. " Flower Mission," the poem dedicated to Miss Jennie Cassiday, the invalid who has brightened so many lives, would be an appropriate recitation, for one. It may be found in " Platform Pearls." The objects of the flower committee's work should be explained, and a collection taken to aid in carrying out its plans. Some slight gift, suggestive of flowers, may be awarded to the writer of the best list of answers in the floral love story, and a flower or tiny bouquet may be handed to each guest at the close of the evening. A Dime SociaL Music and two or three bright recitations or readings may open the evening, after a general conversational time, while the guests are assembling. A paper or talk may be given on the process of coining. This may either precede or follow the "dime game," which we quote from The Household. See that each person present is provided with a United States dime and a lead-pencil, also a sheet of paper upon which the following list has been either written or printed, with numbered blank spaces for the answers. When these have been distributed, an- nounce that a certain length of time will be given in which to find upon the face of the coin the following articles. 40 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 1. Fruit of a tropical tree. 2. What the Siamese twins were. 3. What a lazy man seldom gets. 4. The division of a country. 5. The cradle of liberty. 6. Another name for an isthmus. 7. Something a schoolboy makes. 8. Something a bootblack wants to give you. 9. What we love to sing. 10. What a self -conceited man does. 1 1 . What you might do if very angry. 12. Part of a river where the fourth letter of the Greek alphabet is sometimes found. 13. An instrument to catch sound. Find upon the reverse side of the dime : 1 . A sailor's measure of distance at sea. 2. Two articles for trimming for a child's hat. 3. A number a miser is sure to take care of. 4. What a rejected suitor always does. 5. The brow of a hill overhanging a precipice. 6. A pleasant companion on a dark night. 7. What makes the forests green. 8. From the letters that form "One Dime" make thirty-three words, common and proper nouns. KEY. Articles found upon the face of the dime : I. Date. 2. United. 3. Ahead. 4. States. 5. Amer- ica. 6. Neck. 7. Figures. 8. A shine. 9. America. 10. Knows (nose). 11. Stamped. 12. Mouth (Greek letter, Delta). 13. Ear. Find on the reverse side of the dime : EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 4 1 I. Knot. 2. Wreath and ribbon. 3. One. 4. Leaves. 5. Edge. 6. Bow (beau). 7. Foliage. 8. Deem, done, don, demon, den, dine, din, dome, dime, die, dim, doe, mind, mined, me, mine, mode, mid, meed, men, mend, nod, need, node, no, end, ide, in, I, O, one, ode, on. Some slight reward may be given to the one having the most correct answers. For refreshments have cake and ice-cream, peanut sandwiches and lemonade, or strawberries and cream, and charge a dime ; also, if desired, have a long table on which may be arranged various articles for sale at that price. An Italian Social* The main feature of the evening's entertainment con- sists of stereopticon views, or at least a collection of photographs, of Italian scenery, statuary, and buildings, particularly in Rome, explained by an interesting speaker, preferably one who has travelled in that region. Music should include several instrumental selections from Italian composers, and the song " Beautiful Venice, the Pride of the Sea," arranged as a duet or trio. The song may be followed or preceded by a paper on Venice, unless that interesting city has been already fully treated by the main speaker in connection with the views. The reading in abridged form of " Tessa's Surprises " from " Aunt Jo's Scrap Bag," will please the younger guests, as will also a peanut-hunt, or the well-known game of " Porca " or " Italian blind man's buff." Re- freshments may consist of macaroni and tropical fruits, including bananas sold by a member of the society dressed as an Italian pedler. l. m. h. 42 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, A Snowball Party* This is for a Christmas social, and is based chiefly, as is the " Christmas Stocking Party," on the descrip- tions given by Caroline Harris Gallagher in The House- hold. A large pine-tree in the centre of the room is loaded with white packages of all sizes and shapes, which look like huge snowballs. Bright-colored decorations, but no candles, are added. On a table, close at hand, is a box filled with pieces of cardboard about two inches square, each bearing a number. The packages on the tree are marked with corresponding numbers. Each person draws a card from the box, and then looks for the package bearing the duplicate number. Usually the search will be longer than might be supposed, and many of the parcels are hung so high that a step-ladder standing near must be called into service. No assistance should be given or received. When the mysterious snowballs are unwrapped, all sorts of pretty, quaint, and funny articles appear. Guests in the party described drew several cards apiece ; and, as the gifts are all inexpensive, this might answer in a small gathering. Scarf-pins and dolls, silver pen- handles and tin horns, dainty ornaments and shrill whistles, books and cow-bells, were among the countless fruits growing on this remarkable tree. "It was most ludicrous," says the writer, *< to see a tall young man holding a gayly dressed doll, and a pretty girl playing with a jumping-jack, while the sedate father of the family tooted loudly on a very unmelodious EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 43 horn, and his quiet little wife amused herself with a pop-gun, or something equally juvenile." All the pretty and useful gifts may be selected so as to be suitable for either girls or men, such as blotters, calendars, inkstands, whisk-brush holders, paper-cutters, candlesticks, silver pencils, etc. For the refreshments a charge may be made, if the entertainment be given by a society instead of by an individual, as in the original case. They may include " snowballs," as described in The Golden Rule, They are made with a cup-shaped ice-shaver, which is filled with shaved ice, the finer the better. This ice is turned out on a saucer, or put in a glass tumbler. A thick syrup is made by boiling down sugar flavored with orange or lemon ; or syrups may be made with choco- late, or with pears or peaches. This syrup is poured upon the shaved ice. A Christmas Stocking Party* We quote this entire from the same source as the " snowball party." " When the company had assembled, we were told that there was something hidden from each one of us, and marked with the name of the person for whom it was intended. We were to seek and find our own ' somethings, ' and no person would be allowed to assist another. The parlors, library, and halls furnished a large field for the search ; and we soon learned that the articles were well hidden. *' After some time spent in looking into the most likely and unlikely places, success crowned the efforts of the 44 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. seekers, and each guest found in some unexpected spot a funny-looking stocking made of Turkey red, a knobby and misshapen object filled to overflowing with gifts. A tall man found his stocking on the floor, in a corner, and a tiny maiden, who was scarcely five feet tall, dis- covered hers on top of a bookcase. In most curious places were these remarkable stockings found. They were found in the folds of the portieres, on the backs of chairs and sofas, and hidden behind music-stands and flower-pots. " They contained all sorts of pretty, useful, ornamen- tal, and ridiculous things ; but, as each one had been filled for some special person, the articles were all ap- propriate. " For example, in that of a newly married woman were found dainty trifles for ornamenting her house, an em- broidered doily, various kinds of kitchen utensils (such as tea-strainers, wooden spoons, etc.), and a watchman's rattle. A doctor had in his, among many other things, a miniature skeleton, a package of prescription papers, an embroidered cravat-case, a lancet, and a mouth-organ. Every stocking contained several articles ; some pretty, some funny, and all appropriate. " Just before supper was served, two little boxes con- taining slips of paper were brought into the room. One box was handed to the girls and one to the men, with the request that each person would draw one of the slips, read what was written on it, and keep the writing a secret. " On the cards of the men were written unfinished sentences, such as * Bread and ,' ' Pork and — '■ — ,' * Croquettes and ,' * Ice-cream and ,' ' Peaches EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 45 and ,' * Crackers and ,' etc., the missing words being written on the girls' cards. " After all the cards had been drawn, the girls went alone into the dining-room and seated themselves at the table, taking care that every girl had a vacant seat be- side her. " Then the men entered, one at a time, and at the door of the dining-room each one read aloud what was writ- ten on his card, and the girl whose card completed his unfinished sentence was his partner at supper. Of course the man who said ' Bread and ' belonged to the girl who replied, ' Butter ' ; ' Pork and ' paired off with 'Beans'; 'Croquettes,' with * Peas,' 'Ice-cream,' with ' Cake ' ; ' Peaches,' with ' Cream ' ; ' Cheese,' with ' Crackers,' etc., and great amusement was caused by this highly original but appropriate way of seating the guests. " In the centre of the supper-table was a huge bowl of holly ; the doilies and centrepiece were embroidered with wreaths of the same ; and the candles and shades were bright red. In fact, every detail of the whole affair had been arranged with a view to its appropriate- ness, and the result was one of the most original entertainments that could be imagined." King Cotton^s Reception, or a Plantation Social Flowers of the cotton plant, in partial or full bloom, are to be desired, if obtainable, for decorations. Sheets of cotton batting may be arranged like snowbanks here and there, and may form the costume of the chairman of the committee, as King (or Queen) Cotton. The 46 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. otheir members of the committee should wear cotton dresses. The main part of the evening's entertainment consists of tableaux, or shadow pictures on a sheet, representing scenes from Southern life. To this may be added a paper or talk on " The South of the Twentieth Century." A magazine story of plantation life may be read, and several of the better class of plantation melodies will be appreciated. These should be selected with care, to be entirely unobjectionable, but such songs as " Suwanee River" and " When the Cotton Fields Are White," the latter sung as a chorus, are among those found most appropriate. A ball of knitting-cotton, or crochet-cotton, may have quotations on slips of paper wound into it, after being twisted up into small compass. The ball may be passed from one to another, each unwinding until a quotation is reached. Refreshments of *' hoe-cake " or corn pone, hominy and syrup, or similar viands, may be served. L. M. H. An Evening with ** Jack*^ Invitations may read like ordinary reception cards, " To meet His Distinguished Highness, Jack." On arrival, the guests find the reception committee ready to introduce them to "Jack." But this takes time, as Jack is somewhat numerous. Beginning with the cheerful Jack o' Lantern in the hall, there should be Jack Frost, Jack Tar, Jack of All Trades, Jack o' Dreams, Jack Horner, Jack the Giant-Killer, Jack and Jill, Jack and the Beanstalk, Jack Sprat, Gen- eral Jacqueminot, Jack-Be-Nimble, etc., each dressed in EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 47 character and representing by conversation and manner the particular Jack in question. A short, bright speech may be prepared, in which each Jack relates his adven- tures and connects them in some way with local happen- ings and the work of the society. Questions written on slips of paper may be distributed to assist the guests in their attempts at interviewing " his distinguished high- ness." Music may be introduced ; Jack Horner's pie may be served as refreshments, with Jack-Be-Nimble acting as waiter; and the games of jackstones and jackstraws, each on a separate table, can test the forgotten skill of the older people present, as well as amuse the younger ones. The evening may appropriately close with a vote of thanks to "Jack," or a slight gift to the one who has best represented his character. A jumping-jack might be chosen as a reward in this case. l. m. h. Chinese Social^ No« 2* '' An evening in China," given by the Endeavorers of the Wurto Street Baptist Church of Kingston, N. Y., is worth preserving as reported in The Golden Rule. " The room was prettily decorated. At one side was a pagoda tastefully draped with yellow and white bunt- ing. In the centre of the room there hung, a short dis- tance from the ceiling, a large Chinese parasol. At intervals along the side Chinese lanterns were fastened. Lanterns were also suspended from the ceiling near the sides of the room, and along the walls were fastened Chinese pictures, maps of that vast empire, and Chinese kites, made of white muslin and gayly decorated with bows of bright-colored tissue-paper. 48 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, " During the evening a programme was rendered, all portions of which related to China. ' Miss Maloney on the Chinese Question ' was recited, and there were papers on ' The Chinese Empire,' ' The Manners and Customs of the Chinese,' * The Chinese Arts and Inventions,' and * The Religion of China.' By the use of the stere- opticon a young man dressed in Chinese costume exhib- ited pictures that helpfully illustrated these papers, accompanying them with an instructive talk. " From under the pagoda refreshments were served, consisting appropriately of rice and milk, tea and cocoa, banquet wafers, sliced oranges, cake, and dates. Five young men dressed in Chinese costume served these refreshments. Fifteen cents charged for the same ob- tained money for the purchase of a missionary library. " A Gate Socials This might be used as a Hallowe'en entertainment. Brief rhymed invitations are sent out, something like the following : — " You are asked to join in a frolic bright, To be held at Miss Brown's next Friday night. Come, let us persuade you to learn your fate On the other side of the mystic gate. Signed, The Y. P. S. C. E.'* A pen-and-ink design of a gate may be drawn on the upper left-hand corner of the invitation sheet. In a wide opening between two parlors, or between a parlor and a dining-room, arrange a floral gate. This EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 49 may be made of wire, wound with evergreen, and flowers inserted. It must be made so that it will open and close, and may bear a small placard, " No swinging on this gate." The programme should begin early, and be very short. It may include music, one reading or recitation, and a paper or talk on San Francisco, the " City of the Golden Gate." Arrange partners for refreshments by using the list of " Thirty Gates" published in The Youth's Companion. Write the conundrums and answers upon different sets of cards shaped like gates. Pass one set to the young men and the other to the young women, and let each possessor of a question seek the answer, or vice versa. Here is the list : — What gate proclaims and publishes? Promulgate. What gate unyokes and sets free ? Abjugate. A gate of an inquiring turn : Interrogate. A gate which punishes severely : Castigate. A gate full of wrinkles : Corrugate. A gate which connects and classifies : Conjugate. A gate which acts as an ambassador : Legate. A gate which travels by water: Navigate. A gate which makes claims : Arrogate. A gate which repeals laws : Abrogate. A gate which increases in length : Elongate. A gate which goes to law : Litigate. A gate which soothes and alleviates : Mitigate. A gate which conquers and subdues : Subjugate. A gate which places itself under bonds : Obligate. A gate acting as a representative : Delegate. A gate which separates : Segregate. so EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. A gate which cleanses and purifies : Fumigate. A gate which sends people into exile : Relegate. A gate which waters : Irrigate. A gate of many colors : Variegate. A gate which assembles : Congregate. A gate which seeks knowledge : Investigate. A gate which produces its kind : Propagate. A gate which includes the whole : Aggregate. A gate which ties together : Alligate. A gate which deserts : Runagate. A gate which denies and rejects : Negate. A gate which sails the sea : Frigate. A gate of self-denial : Abnegate. Do not number the cards, but let the search, with the conversation involved, occupy a half-hour if necessary. During the refreshments which follow when all are seated, prepare the surprise of the evening, in the form of the tableau of " The Three Fates," arranged from the well-known picture. Have this in the room "- be- yond the mystic gate," which has been darkened until the proper time arrives. An impressive announcement is made, music is played softly, and a colored light will add greatly to the effect. Each guest then exchanges partners with his nearest neighbor, and a march follows, while all pass through the floral gateway and receive their " fortunes " or " fates " from the hand of a person concealed behind a curtain. These "fates "are written on slips of paper, and may be original or quoted, only so that they are of a prophetic nature. They may be written on dainty cards if preferred, and retained as souvenirs. L. M. H. EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 5 I An Accidental SociaL This was held in the ( acci )dental parlors of Stewart Spencer, D. D. S. All who came were requested to tell of the most serious accident or narrowest escape that ever happened to them. At a social of this kind the games, conundrums, refreshments, etc., may be in- troduced at unexpected times, and there may be a reading of the delightful chapter on << Unexpected Com- pany," from J. M. Barrie's '^ Window in Thrums." A Klondike SociaL Photographs of arctic regions are on exhibition, and a series of numbered " Klondike conversation topics," prepared on note-sheets, is used, with the plan of chang- ing partners and topics every five minutes. The topics may be so worded as to conduct the conversers succes- sively through various adventures on an imaginary journey to the Klondike. When they reach this goal, the topics cease, and a hunt for nuggets begins. This takes place in an adjoining room decorated to represent a winter scene. The " nuggets " are nuts, fruits, candy, etc., hidden in every conceivable place. A Celebrity Social* Mount portraits of famous men and women, number them, hang them about the rooms ; have a correspond- ing list of numbers on the card passed each guest, for use in a guessing contest. A bright biographical sketch 52 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, or two might be read in addition, or a series of anec- dotes of famous persons given. Decorate the winner of the contest with a ribbon badge, on which is a small medallion portrait of some noted person. Serve " celeb- rity cake " and lemonade, the importance of the cake consisting in the fact that it was made by one or several of the ladies present. This, with the two preceding socials, was reported in Onward as being given by the Young People's Chris- tian Union of Harriman, Tenn. They are given here with an additional touch or two. An Evening with Animals* ( For the Juniors, Loyal Temperance Legion, etc.) This delights the children, and serves to interest all in the principles of kindness to dumb animals taught by the "Band of Mercy." Rhymed invitations are sent out, and tickets sold by the children at ^v^ cents each, or the invitations may themselves serve as tickets. A good stereopticon is the chief essential, and every society should possess one, as it can be used for a large variety of entertainments. For this occasion procure stereopticon plates of a number of different animals. No lecture or address is necessary ; but, as each animal's picture is displayed on the sheet, have a recitation or song by a Junior about the animal shown. One on " My Kitty," is given by a very little girl, who carries a Mal- tese kitten in her arms. Another is a reading from " Black Beauty," or some other suitable selection regard- ing the horse. Most of the literature containing these recitations can be procured of the Woman's Temper- EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 53 ance Publishing Association, Chicago. We insert one additional one, however, which, taken in connection with the costume, is too good to omit. It is "The Travelling Monkey," recited by a little boy in a red cap and jacket, to represent the monkey. The evening closes with a distribution of fancy cakes or crackers, made in the form of animals, one to each child present, or to every one present, whether children or adults, if the society is generously inclined. The poem and invitation read as follows : — My master grinds an organ, And I pick up his money ; And when you see me doing it, You call it very funny. But though I dance and caper, still I feel at heart forlorn : I wish I were in monkey-land, The place where I was born. There grow the great green cocoanuts Around the palm-tree's crown ; I used to climb and pick them off, And hear them — crack ! — come down. There all day long the purple figs Are dropping from the bough ; There hang the ripe bananas ; O, I wish I had some now I I'd feast and feast and feast and feast, And you should have a share. How pleasant 't is in monkey-land 1 O would that I were there I 54 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, On some tall tree-top's highest bough, So high the clouds would sail Just over me, I wish that I Were swinging by my tail. I'd swing and swing and swing and swing ; How merry that would be I But, O ! a travelling monkey's life Is very hard for me. — Marian Douglas, " The fifteenth of April be sure to keep free. The L. T. L. begs, and the Junior C. E., Then you '11 be in the chapel at 7.30 ; And then at a signal will go down the light, And when it is dark you '11 see such a sight ! And hear stories pathetic and funny and bright ; While the whole dumb creation will parade on that night. And, when you have heard them offer their pleas, You '11 never be tempted again to tease This wonderful, beautiful animal nation, Which, may we remember, is God's own creation." A Forest SociaU Decorate with green vines, boughs, and foliage of all kinds; and, if available, a green, mossy-appearing rug or carpet will add greatly to the effect. Woodland flowers are appropriate ; there should be no others. " Robin Hood and his merry men " should be present, dressed in hunting-costume ; and a motion song by fairies or brownies would be pretty. The song of the *' Christmas Fairies " in the Christmas exercise used by many, with its " Tripping, tripping, lightly skipping " EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 55 chorus, could be easily altered and adapted to the occa- sion. A witch in a long red cloak and a high pointed cap may prescribe . unique remedies for imaginary ills and troubles, as she is consulted by one and another of the company present. This could be made not only amusing but suggestive as a committee conference, if prepared beforehand instead of being impromptu. The various trials and discouragements of the society could be pre- sented, and the witch could have her replies in the form of rhymed quotations or original suggestions, witty and appropriate, ready to offer for the much-needed relief. Readings can be given, such as Bryant's '' Forest Hymn," and selections from " A Midsummer Night's Dream." If these two be chosen, they should be separated by one or two selections of instrumental music. The game of *' babes in the wood " may be prepared in advance as follows : Let some one who can draw fairly well sketch on cardboard the pictures of two wolves, two innocent-looking children, and t\vo fierce- looking ruffians. Cut out these figures, supply them with slight braces of the cardboard, that they may stand up ; make a little bow and arrow with which the guests are to endeavor in turn to shoot the wolves and the ruffians without knocking over the " babes." As the six figures are ranged in line, in the order to make this difficult, it is amusing to watch the contest. Any one shooting a wolf counts five to his credit ; a ruffian thus disposed of counts two ; and a " babe " knocked over means a loss of two counts. The game is won by the 56 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. person who makes the best disposition of the three shots allowed him. Refreshments of nuts and fruit are served by the fairies or by Robin Hood and his men, and the singing of woodland songs concludes the evening. Should there be a good vocalist available, who could render the " Jenny Lind Bird Song " or a similar solo, it would be well, but is not necessary to success. l. m. h. A Village Impfovement Socials In connection with this plan, the committee will find much food for thought and enthusiasm in a previous study of Professor Henderson's book, " The Social Spirit in America," especially chapters 6 and 14. Collect photographs, engravings, or stereopticon views showing attractive parks, fountains, gardens, well-kept lawns, shady avenues, broad drives, and other scenery to bring out the idea of public improvements. Then have another collection of pictures showing a neglected, tumble-down condition of houses and fences, irregular, broken pavements, narrow alleys cluttered with barrels, rubbish, etc. If possible, have the same scenes photo- graphed " before and after taking " the methods of village improvement which you wish to urge. An original humorous poem or sketch may be read. Something after the " Ten Little Injuns " style might do, entitled " Ten Merry Bicyclists," for instance ; giv- ing an account of the successive mishaps that befell them through the sad condition of the streets. '' The Calf Path," by Sam Walter Foss, would also be a good selection, and a reading from " The Deserted Village." EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 5/ If it is desired to raise money for a fountain, distrib- ute dainty cards with a ribbon bow in the corner, one side blank, and the other side containing the picture of a fountain. Read aloud perhaps eight or ten poetical or scriptural quotations regarding fountains and water, or beauty and beautiful cities or streets. Let every one guess the source of the quotations, writing their guesses on the blank side of the card. The one who is found, on comparison, to have guessed correctly the largest number has the privilege of selecting a poem or other reading from some favorite author, to be read aloud. There may be two papers or addresses on the pur- pose of the evening ; one entitled " The Slough of Despond," and the other, "What to Do about It." Some one should explain the photographs, or give the stereopticon talk. The collection is taken toward the close ; simple refreshments are served, and the fountain cards are taken away as souvenirs. l. m. h. An Evening with Ceres« Decorate the rooms with ornamental grasses and grains. A young lady dressed as " Ceres," with classic Greek robe, girdle, sandals, hair arranged with Greek bandeaux and a wreath of wheat, acts as hostess. Let her conduct the following game, called " the garden of Ceres." Beginning with the remark, " Ceres is planting her garden," she asks each guest in turn what fruit, grain, or vegetable he will contribute. When all have replied, she asks each why his gift, as chosen, is appropriate in this particular society. One who gave an apple might reply, " Because, like Mr. A's 58 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, recent, or hoped-for, donation to our treasury, it is a windfall." One who gave a grapevine might say, " Be- cause its fruit always appears in clusters, like our com- mittees." Or the one giving a potato, " The most valuable part is hidden from view, like the lookout committee conferences," etc. Any one failing to give a prompt and satisfactory answer must take the place of Ceres in the game. There may be a reading, " Indian Corn in Colonial Times," from The Chautauquan of March, 1898; a selection from " Hiawatha," or Sidney Lanier's poem on " Corn " ; a short practical talk by a vegetarian, on the value of various health foods, especially of cereals ; and at the close there might be a sale of such foods, both in packages and daintily prepared ; or the latter may be served free as " samples," and a small recipe-book given to each guest as a souvenir. Close with singing selec- tions such as *' Song to September" or the hymns from " The Finest of the Wheat." l. m. h. A Midwinter Excursion* Partial credit for this is given to Ida Upham in The Household for March, 1898. Everything in connection with this evening must be carried out in a most picnic-like way. Where it was once held, the invitations read : — You are requested to join an excursion to the Catskill Mountains, December 28,1897. The train leaves " Lynden," Westerleigh, at 7.48 p.m. Single tickets, one smile; round- trip tickets, one smile and a hand-shake. G.P.&T.A. EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS 59 As the guests entered, the host (or hostess) collected the fares, and the tickets, which were numbered, were given to the gentlemen, the ladies receiving cards num- bered in duplicate. Partners were secured accordingly, and it was announced that the train could wait no longer. The "train" consisted of two rows of chairs arranged like seats in a Pullman car. The tickets resembled a coupon ticket, the heading reading thus : — N.Y.C.&H.R.R.R. Round-trip ticket Between New York and Catskill, N. Y. G.P.&T.A. In place of coupons were written ten different subjects to be discussed by the travellers, each subject being allotted three minutes. At the expiration of the time the conductor rung his bell and called, " Change cars." The ladies remained seated, while the gentlemen, all of whom were seated on the same side, progressed one seat ahead. The subjects for conversation were as follows : — 1. Relative advantages of shore and mountain vacations. 2. Discuss the last book you have read. 3. Should summer flirtations be encouraged? 4. If Columbus had not discovered America, where would we be at? 5. Which is more useful, electricity or steam ? 6o EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 6. Does football pay ? 7. Are men more extravagant than women ? 8. Which is more enjoyable, boating or wheeling ? 9. Who are the old women in " Mother Goose's Melodies ? " 10. Why is a man like his shoe ? The conductor called upon one of the company to read the following. MAN AND HIS SHOES. How much a man is like his shoes ! For instance, both a sole may lose. Both have been tanned. Both are made tight By cobblers. Both get left and right, Both need a mate to be complete, And both are made to go on feet. They both need healing, oft are sold, And both in time will turn to mould. With shoes the last is first ; with men The first shall be the last ; and, when The shoes wear out, they're mended new : When men wear out, they're men dead, too. They both are trod upon, and both Will tread on others, nothing loath. Both have their ties, and both incline, When polished, in the world to shine. And both peg out. Now would you choose To be a man or be his shoes t When these subjects had all been discussed, the conductor announced the arrival at the " Mountain House." The excursion was to last three days, and a large programme on the wall read as follows : — EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 6 1 Wednesday : Trip to the " Mountain House." Thursday^ A. M. : Stalking the deer. P. M. : Music. Friday^ A. M. : Picnic. Fishing, Lunch. P. M. : Farewell Reception. " Stalking the deer " was carried out by a general hunt for a toy deer concealed somewhere about the room. Each one, on discovering it, immediately seated himself. The deer may be presented to the person first finding it. Either music or recitations may be introduced for entertainment. Fishing consisted of securing partners for lunch. The ladies being con- cealed behind a sheet, the gentlemen fished for them with a line attached to a pole, each lady in turn taking hold of the line, and thus being captured. The lunch- table was covered with green tissue-paper, representing grass, and decorated with smilax. The refreshments were served in baskets each containing lunch for two. In them may be placed paper napkins, sandwiches, pickles, and boiled eggs, preferably devilled eggs, as they make a pretty appearance. Cake and ice-cream may also be served, and lemonade for cooling drink. A lemonade well may be tastefully arranged with green paper and smilax. The farewell reception may be a game in which all may join; for instance, parlor quoits, or pitch-the-ring, each person trying his hand. If desired, a slight reward of skill may be given to the person making the best count in the game. The invitation and ticket may be signed, " Chairman of the Social Committee." B. H. M. 62 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, An Evening of Characteristics. This was arranged by a literary club, but with slight local variations would be enjoyable in most societies, from beginning to end. The invitations were as fol- lows : — You are asked to come on Friday, May the twentieth, at eight, And present your smiling countenance at the Manse's postern gate. But, as in fact there is n't one, no one must take offence If the latchstring's only hanging out in a figurative sense. So put on your " bib and tucker " fine, your *^ war-paint and your feathers," And wend your cheery way up there, no matter what the weather's ! You'll meet a company of friends from round about the Park; And, unless we greatly miss our guess, we'll have a jolly lark. The pastor and his wife have loaned their broad ancestral hall. And a warm and hearty greeting will be there accorded all. There '11 be a " feast of reason " spread, to give your wits a rub. And you will be the welcome guest of The Duodecimo Club. A short programme was rendered, opened by a bright address, after which twenty minutes were given to cur- rent events, four topics being assigned to as many persons beforehand for a five-minute talk each. This EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 63 was followed by a paper on " Wit, Humor, and Pathos." Conversation was general for a half -hour or longer, after which two games were introduced. The first was the game of " characteristics." Each guest was supplied with a card containing a list of " characteristics," each descriptive of some noted person, with a blank space opposite for the celebrity's name. The guests were to fill in the names, aided by the fact that the names bore the same initials as the " characteristics." At the close of the time the cards changed hands; the correct list was read aloud for purposes of com- parison, and the most successful contestants (one lady and one gentleman) were presented respectively with a miniature flag and a sword. These naturally led to a march, which proved a spirited one. With the refresh- ments were passed the thinnest and daintiest of white paper napkins, with violets painted in one corner. Another game played was "telegrams." Each one present was required to write a telegram of ten words, these words to begin with ten specified letters, used in the order given, or in any order preferred. A Patriotic SociaL " Uncle Sam " or " Columbia " in appropriate cos- tume may receive the guests. Flags and bunting should decorate the walls, together with portraits of famous Americans, which may be made an occasion for a guessing contest. Have a " post-office," the letters consisting of extracts from patriotic speeches, or the latest war news, enclosed in envelopes of red, white, and blue, or with a flag in one corner ; or, if convenient, 64 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, in the envelopes sometimes to be had, that are them- selves simply representations of the American flag. The following programme has been rendered on one such occasion: — Chorus. ** The Star-Spangled Banner." Recitation. " Independence Bell." Solo. " The Dying Soldier," or " The Soldier's Farewell," an adaptation of " Ehren on the Rhine." Recitation. " Old Ironsides." Reading. " The Antiquity of Freedom." Bryant. Chorus. *' Red, White, and Blue." Other choruses might be added or substituted, such as " Fair Native Land," " Flag of Our Country," or " The Soldiers' Chorus." A list of historic battles, with the generals command- ing them, should be prepared in advance. The name of each battle may be written on a slip of paper or miniature flag, and the name of the commanding gen- eral, correspondingly numbered, on another slip or flag. These may be passed and matched to arrange partners for refreshments, which may consist of saltines, cheese, and phosphate of wild cherry. A Fragaria Virginiana ReveL This is simply a strawberry festival in very thin but pleasing disguise. Small tables are prettily spread with white covers ; tissue-paper napkins, either all white or pink-bordered, are used ; and centrepieces of roses and trailing vines add a charming effect. There may be a short musical programme, also a recitation or two, if EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 6S desired; but the all-important strawberry, with its accessories and its classical name, forms the main attraction. The invitations, prepared by any convenient duplicating process, are in antique English lettering as well as phraseology, and are suitably illustrated. They may read like the following copy of a form designed by Mr. Knight L. Clapp : — 9tvtii^-«ifREByN0T(ri^Il-2T^TT^tJa3"^ >?a^«r. pwn ©f Ostracism [i-e4bs^iil|.t«|^iVoii^] ^^^^cral • r*a.r e • SjlVfc io\^Va.n«Ji ^J- on- <2;chibi|iof2. &.mag b&- pv'fch.af ed- 3^1; -^^• rfed\^cci;pnc«f^«> b^-dev>ov)red- or2tfie pfem- raJ^ojz-^ood- or: iff. fiC3,l(h--^e.K^nd^hi.t "^ cj 7 «J -o) I cq «o -*' n 66 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, An Evening with Authors* Collect twenty-five or thirty pictures of noted au- thors. These may usually be cut out of magazines. Write underneath each a number, and a more or less familiar quotation from the author's works. Pin them around the sides of the room, on walls and curtains; and give to each guest a card bearing the list of num- bers, to be filled out with the authors' names. This contest, in which no help may be given or received, is made more interesting than many, as well as somewhat less difficult, by the clew which the quotations furnish. Each contestant must write his name on his card. At the close of the time allowed, the cards are ex- changed, the complete list read aloud, and all correct answers checked. The writer of the best list receives a small book or other appropriate reward. A reading from some popular author and a musical selection may be added for variety. To arrange partners for refreshments, have numbered slips of paper passed to each guest, containing either the name of a noted author or the name of his native town. These are matched, and a march may be intro- duced. Souvenirs might be given, consisting of quota- tions written on cards of fancy shape, like a star or a pansy, with a tiny ribbon bow by which to attach it to the dress. For the central idea of this social, the authors' portrait gallery, we are indebted to Miss Euphemia P. Gregory. EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 6/ Grandmotiier Gray^s Reception* This is a shadow social. Send out brief invitations on pearl-gray cards. The guests are received by " Grand- mother Gray," represented by some bright young lady, preferably one with dimples and an especially youthful countenance. She should be dressed in sober gray, with spectacles, cap, powdered hair, and prim kerchief or shawl. After greeting the guests individually, she makes a short speech, promising to introduce them to a fine collection of silhouettes by a famous artist. While the shadow pictures are being prepared, have the lights turned low, and have softly played instrumental music, and one or two *' twilight songs," such as "In Shadow Land," or " Love's Old, Sweet Song," as a solo, and " In the Starlight" as a duet. The following suggestions for shadow scenes, having been tested with considerable success, are contributed by an Ohio friend. Miss Nellie E. Wanzer. " A large white screen was hung, a bright light placed behind the screen, and the lights in the audience-room turned very low. The actors stood or sat between the bright light and the screen, so that the audience could see only their shadows. These were intended to be comic rather than pretty, and made a change from tab- leaux. My programme contained five shadow scenes. * A Swell Affair ' was represented by a young man nursing a huge swelling on his face ; the bunch was made by binding on a large ball of cotton with a hand- kerchief. For *Wash Day,' a little girl rubbed vigor- ously upon a doll's dress, holding it up frequently for inspection. ' The Surgical Operation ' consisted in saw- 68 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. ing off a pasteboard arm, which had previously been sewed to a boy's coat. This made as good a shadow as a real arm, and he held his own arm behind him in such a way that it cast no shadow upon the screen. The audience could hear the saw, as well as see its shadow, as the operation proceeded; and the excitement was great when the surgeon waved the severed member above his head in a most heartless manner. * Going to the Train ' was illustrated by a troop of people hurrying along with baskets, umbrellas, satchels, a violin-case, and various other encumbrances. Its sequel, ' On the Train,' was represented by a young man hurrying to pass a young lady, and in his haste setting his foot upon her train. She cast an angry glance over her shoulder, and he lifted his hat apologetically. One might add to these a great variety of representations which would be unique and striking." A skein-winding contest may be held, in which six or more skeins of gray yarn, each held by a partner, are wound into balls, those first completing their balls receiving some pretty trifle of gray hue, decorated as gayly as you please. Refreshments of doughnuts, sand- wiches, and coffee may be served. A Cuban SociaL Decorate the rooms with American and Cuban flags. Patriotic music should be interspersed throughout the evening. By special permission of the author, we quote the words of " Cuba, the Pearl of the Ocean," by Dr. William H. Putnam. It was first sung by Mrs. Putnam EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 69 at a large gathering at the Westerleigh Auditorium, Staten Island, on Memorial Day, 1898. An audience of three thousand greatly appreciated the song, which has since appeared in The School Jourrial. It was sung originally to the air of " Red, White, and Blue," but has been set to special music, which can be procured by addressing Dr. Putnam, at 63 Fifth Avenue, New York City. CUBA, THE PEARL OF THE OCEAN. For Cuba, the pearl of the ocean, A land of the noble and brave, We give what we have with a blessing, This gem, with its beauty, to save ; We call from the North the great Dewey, To strike for its freedom a blow. He sees with the eye of an eagle The far-distant flag of the foe. All cheer for the brave boys in blue ! All cheer for the brave boys in blue ! The navy and Dewey forever, All cheer for the brave boys in blue ! The sun in its splendor has driven The mists from the bay of Manilla ; The men are all eager for action ; They challenge the Spanish flotilla; But back comes the word of defiance, In signs of deep anger and hate ; The guns are made ready for freedom, The signal of peace comes too late. — Cho. " Fire when you are ready," said he, And the world applauds Dewey to-day ; ^0 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. In a far-away tropical clime Our flag has been hoisted to stay, The pride of the young and the old. On the Olympia he stood, brave and true ; The navy and Dewey forever, All cheer for the brave boys in blue ! — Cho. The programme may include a short stereopticon talk on Cuba, a reading from " The Spaniard in History," published by the Funk & Wagnalls Company, New York ; a paper on " The Reconcentrado ; '' an appro- priate poem or magazine story, founded on incidents of the war ; and a description of the Red Cross work, with an appeal for funds, if a collection is to be taken for the Cuban sufferers. Games may be introduced, also founded on incidents connected with Cuban history. " The Rescue of Miss Cisneros " might be played as follows : Prepare a list of questions on the war, or on some other subject, and have a " question-match," conducted like the regulation spelling-match. The leader on each side must be a lady, the one presiding over the winning side at the close being declared " Miss Cisneros," and immediately captured by the losing side, or Spaniards, who surround her and form a <' prison " by clasping hands. The other side then begin to ply the Spaniards with questions, which must be answered immediately, and without using the words "yes," "no," or "I." The first failure to comply with these rules breaks down the prison bars, releases the captive, and ends the game. "The Bombardment of Morro Castle" may be con- ducted with the aid of ninepins or chessmen grouped together at one end of a long board, with two slightly EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. /I larger, or different from the rest, each representing Morro Castle. Balls are rolled toward the goal. An ordinary pin knocked over counts one ; and Morro Castle, at either side, counts five. "Dewey at Manilla," "Sampson at Santiago," and " Hobson's choice " are games which might be added. For the first, have a target of some kind, — an improvised one might be made of strong manilla paper ; and aim at the harbor in the centre, which is surrounded with " mines," indicated by numbers or dots. Of course, the endeavor is to enter the harbor without encountering the mines, and the counts are arranged accordingly. " Sampson at Santiago " may be any game where the players are divided into two sides. A bombardment of conundrums, or a memory or pronouncing test, followed by forfeits, would be appropriate ; or the game of "pro- gressive spelling " described in connection with the " due tea." The losing side as a whole should be " bottled up " by being sent into an adjoining room wnth orders to prepare a song, a joke, or some specific feature of impromptu entertainment. For " Hobson's choice," have one person leave the room, and the rest think of some object. The absent one, or " Hobson," is then recalled, and proceeds to guess the article thought of. Ten questions and three guesses are allowed him if the article is in sight ; twenty questions and three guesses, if it is not. When he leaves the safer course of questioning, and boldly ven- tures on the few guesses permitted, he is said to be " sinking the Merrimac." If he exhausts his resources without success, he is said to be captured by the Span- ish, which ends the game. Rewards may be a miniature 72 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. sword, or some article from Cuba. Provide each guest with a tiny Cuban flag, or hide them about the room and have a general hunt for them. Play a stirring march and let the guests march into the refreshment-room, where cake or wafers, lemonade, and tropical fruits may be served. The tissue napkins may be decorated with a Cuban flag in one corner. l. m. h. An Evening with the Fairies* ( For the Juniors. ) Rhymed invitations on dainty cards, with the picture of a fairy or brownie on the envelope, may be sent. The rooms or hall may be decorated in green and silver. Tables may contain fancy articles made by the children, but these may be hidden with green covers, to look like mossy banks, till after the programme. This consists of several recitations and bright, sparkling little songs, espe- cially motion songs, by the children dressed in fairy and brownie costumes. Then uncover the tables and have a sale of the articles, including refreshments ; or an admis- sion price may be charged and refreshments served free. The magic number seven, being a favorite with the fairies, should be brought in as often as possible in all the arrangements; each departing guest may be pre- sented with a fairy talisman or charm, warranted to preserve good humor, consisting of an invitation to the Junior meetings. l. m. h. Ching Lee^s Unworthy Compliments* Another Chinese social, preferably a lawn social for the Fourth of July. The invitation is suggested by a slightly different one in The Mission Dayspring, and EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 71 must be read as the Chinese read, beginning at the upper right-hand corner, and reading downward. J T A C ^ U U N H L E D I Y S F N E 4th & E S & A E Sth w S E T P D R O C E E V S E s I o N o' eve the al nifi Ching clock ning chap pro cance Lee amid Ju el ces with pre an ly door sion your sents ex Fourth led of es his plo and by the teem. un sion will the Maj ed worthy of reach band es pres com fire the torch tic ence pli works White bear Or and ments Fee Tern ers der shed pray op pie and of your ing tion which sol the hght you al faces diers Sun on to with on at The the hon each the eight pro oc or guest pub o' ces ca our No lie clock sion sion dis charge road on will of agree made at Tues start the able at 9 day from roy in the sig 4oor 74 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, Decorate the lawn and entrance with Chinese lanterns, and the chapel or church parlors with yellow draperies, Chinese parasols, and fans, etc. The reception com- mittee may wear Chinese costume, not forgetting the cue. Each guest is given a piece of a card, bearing either a question or an answer on subjects pertaining to China and Chinese missions. When the questions and answers are successfully combined, by the aid of num- bers if the questions are difficult, the pianist strikes up a march and the procession starts. After marching several times around the rooms, hall, and porch, giving opportunity to admire the decorations, the procession is brought to a halt at a convenient place from which to view the fireworks. Two or three short speeches, patri- otic in character, but especially comparing America and China, may be introduced, and the evening closes with the ^' feast" of cake or wafers with ice-cream, followed by a collection of voluntary contributions for the benefit of Chinese missions. l. m. h. A Christmas Social. "In the centre of the dining-table, which was covered with a snow-white cloth, and around the edge of which was a border of burning white candles, stood a large white bowl, the top of which was closed over with a crust of white tissue-paper. Protruding from this and hanging gracefully over the edge of the bowl were a number of white ribbons, one for each person present, and a few extras for the absentees. On the exposed ends of each of these was pinned a number, and to the hidden end was attached a small gift. Each one present had been given earlier in the evening a card upon which EIGHTY PLEASANT E VENINGS. 75 was written a number, and all that now remained for each member to do was to find the ribbon numbered to correspond, and to rescue his trophy from the inside of the pudding. The effect of the pure white arrangements throughout was pretty beyond description." The above is an extract from Otto A. Wehrle's " His- tory of the Hurlbut Circle," of East Boston, in The Chautauquan for May, 1898. It was the custom of the circle to celebrate Christmas by the exchange of little tokens, the price of which was limited to the sum of ten cents each. At another time the gifts were placed in the foot of an immense stocking, which, when suspended from the chandelier, more than touched the floor by about three feet. It was brought from China by a mem- ber or friend of the circle. This must have been strik- ing, but the ^'pudding" is more easily obtained, and with its white ribbons might very appropriately be used by the Young Woman's Christian Temperance Union. Quotations from Christmas or temperance literature might be inserted in the packages or attached to the ribbons ; or a short programme may precede the dishing- out of the " pudding." An Eggs=ellent Plan. The young people of the Baptist Church of Eaton- town, N. J., gave an egg-supper <' to help eggs-haust the church debt." It is thus described by The Baptist Union : ^' The * admission eggs-pence' was < eggs-actly two eggs,' and the supper was twenty-five cents. The supper consisted of eggs in various forms and in combi- nation with various other foods, the printed menu requiring more or less conjecture on the part of the one J 6 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. ordering as to what the articles mentioned might prove to be, ' egg-salt-ation ' meaning ham and eggs, etc. All were urged to ' eggs-ert yourself to come and eggs-amine for yourself. Eggs-it at your pleasure.' " An Echo Meeting. The following programme may be used at an echo meeting of any national or State convention. It will be better if a delegate from the society has attended the convention ; but, as the daily papers give full accounts and most official papers publish convention numbers, this programme can be arranged even if no one has been present. Let the decorations be in the prevailing colors of the decorations at the convention. Arrange that the singing be some of the same songs that were sung at the con- vention. Make extracts from the annual address of the president, and from other addresses made there, those given by gentlemen to be read or recited by young men ; those by ladies, by young women. Let the dele- gate give a running account of the convention, or pre- pare such an account from the official paper, with the names of the distinguished visitors. Close with the same service used in closing the con- vention, or, as in the National Woman's Christian Tem- perance Union Convention, with all clasping hands and singing, " God be with you till we meet again." E. A. B. A Pfogfesshrc SociaL An enjoyable and instructive programme for a "pro- gressive social " is described by Mr. A. M. Harris, as follows ; — EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 7/ Cut from magazines, papers, and other sources one hundred and twenty pictures to illustrate different sub- jects, say as follows : — Pictures of twelve well-known poets. Pictures of twelve well-known inventors. Pictures of twelve well-known divines. Pictures of twelve well-known women. Pictures of twelve well-known rulers. Pictures of twelve well-known statesmen. Pictures of twelve well-known advertisements. (Of course there must be nothing on the advertisement itself to indicate what the advertisement represents.) Pictures of twelve well-known books. (See special explanation below.) Pictures of twelve well-known writers. (Not poets.) Pictures of twelve well-known musicians. By referring to the illustrations representing books the nature of the illustrations may be shown ; for example : — A picture of a boy holding a hoe, which would repre- sent " Ivanhoe." A staircase on which might be pasted a Cupid walking up the stairs, would represent " Stepping Heavenward." The picture of a fine-looking colored woman would represent " Black Beauty." Pictures of sailing-vessels in the moonlight might rep- resent "- Ships That Pass in the Night." The picture of a corset might represent " The Deer (dear) Slayer." After all of these cuttings have been prepared they should be neatly pasted on pieces of white cardboard about four inches by six. 78 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, Then they should be sorted into groups, each twelve by themselves, and all the **poet" cards, for example, marked "Table No. i, Poets.'' These twelve cards should be numbered from i to 12 inclusive. The other sets should be numbered in the same way, running up to and including Table No. 10. There should also be prepared cards to be used by the guests in writing their answers. In the centre of Table No. i would be placed a package of cards all marked at the top " Table No. i," and with blank lines numbered from i to 12 inclusive, with a place at the bottom for the writer to sign his name. There should be a package of cards placed on each table numbered in the same way, but having the proper table designa- tion at the top. The cards for each table should be divided into four packages of three each, turned face down. The guests then take their seats, four at each table. Each guest then picks up one of the small cards from the centre of the table, and signs his name at the bottom; then at a given signal each guest picks up the three cards in front of him and writes on the smaller card opposite the proper number his answer. For exam- ple, the guest at Table No. i holding cards i, 2, and 3 would write the answers on the small cards on the lines numbered i, 2, and 3. At the end of two minutes the bell is tapped for a sig- nal that each guest is to pass his cards to the next one, at the same table, at his left. Two minutes more are given to write the answers to the cards which the guests now hold, and then they are again passed in the same EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 79 way. Each guest thus has eight minutes to write the answers for the twelve cards at his table. The cards are then turned face down, and those sitting at Table No. 10 move up to Table No. 9, those at No. 9 up to Table No. 8 and so on, those at Table No. i coming back to Table No. 10. The guests then take new cards from the centre of the table and sign their names before beginning, the object being to avoid forgetting to sign their names, as would be apt to be the case if their names were not written until after all of the answers had been put down. It will be seen that, aside from the time necessary to change from table to table, it will require eighty minutes for each guest to write the answers to the one hundred and twenty different cards. These cards should then be collected and assorted by tables, and the answers checked over to see who has given the greatest number of correct answers. It will also be noticed that on the basis of the above number of tables, it will require four hundred and eighty small cards to carry out the entire programme. The following partial list of well-known poets, inven- tors and women may be of use : — POETS. Edmund Spenser. Alfred Austin. Eugene Field. 9. James Whitcomb Riley. 10. Robert Browning. 1 1 J. G. Whittier. 12 Robert Burns. James Russell Lowell. William Cull en Bryant. Walt Whitman. William Wordsworth. Lord Tennyson. 8o EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. INVENTORS. 1. Cyrus McCormick. 7. Prof. Eli Thompson. 2. Thomas A. Edison. 8. Capt. John Ericsson. 3. George H. Corliss. 9. Samuel Colt. 4. Prof. Alexander G. Bell. 10. S. F. B. Morse. Howard A. Harvey. 11. Elias Howe. Nikola Tesla. 12. Erastus B. Bigelow. WOMEN. 1. Susan B. Anthony. 7. Helen Hunt Jackson. 2. Elizabeth C. Stanton. 8. Mary A. Livermore. 3. Frances E. Willard. 9. Clara Barton. 4. Lady Henry Somerset. 10. Florence Nightingale. 5. Rosa Bonheur. 11. Elizabeth S. Phelps. 6. Mrs. Potter Palmer. 12. Lady Aberdeen. A Twisted SociaL Notes of invitation should be twisted into fancy shapes, instead of being inserted in envelopes. They should give no indication of the evening's programme, beyond the mere fact that it is to be a twisted social. Festoon long paper ribbons of different colors about the room, in as many " twists " as possible, have the cur- tains and draperies arranged with a twisted effect, and a large card hung up in a conspicuous place, bearing the words, " All Kinds of Twisting and Turning Done Here." Place the chairs in a circle, with each alternate one turned in the opposite direction, and play the game of "- scandal," or a similar one, requiring each to whis- per something to his neighbor. The backs of the chairs forming the line of the circle, there will be con- siderable twisting and turning of heads as the game EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 8 1 goes on. Follow this with two tests, one of pronuncia- tion, the other of memory. The first, or " tongue-twister," may be a sentence, or brief conversation, such as the following : " Ay, we hae Wei-hae-wei." " Hae we ? " *' Ay, we hae." The cele- brated Peter Piper, with his " peck of pickled peppers," may be added, and any others desired, each "tongue- twister " going the rounds. To pronounce it three times in succession, with great rapidity and without a mistake, is the aim. The " memory-twister " is somewhat similar, but in this the rapidity is dispensed with. A list of sentences being prepared, the leader pronounces the first one slowly and distinctly. Each player pronounces it in turn. The leader then repeats it also, adding the second one to it. When this combination has gone the rounds, the leader takes the first, second, and third sentences ; and so on until the whole list has been given. As each person drops out of the game with his first lapse of memory, the player continuing to the end of the list, or coming nearest to it without a mistake, wins the game. Here is a list suggested ; we do not know its original source : — One old ostrich ordering oranges. Two timid toads trying to trot to Tarrytown. Three terrible, thumping tigers tickling trout. Four fat friars fanning flickering flames. Five frivolous foreigners fleeing from fabulous furies. Six Scottish soldiers successively shooting snipe. Seven serious Southerners setting sail from Switzer- land. Eight eager emigrants earnestly examining elements. 82 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, Nine nimble noblemen nibbling nuts. Ten tremendous tomtits twittering on the tops of three tall trees. Eleven enormous elephants elegantly eating Easter eggs. Twelve tired tailors thoughtfully twisting twine. Or another one, without the aid of alliteration : — A good fat hen. Two ducks. Three plump partridges. Four squawking wild geese. Five hundred Limerick oysters. Six pairs of Don Alphonso's tweezers. Seven hundred Macedonian horsemen, rank and file drawn up in order of battle. Eight cages of He, Hi, Ho, bibulous sparrow kites. Nine floating fly-boats floating from Fort Manilus to Damascus, laden with flowers and fruit. Ten diacaustic, dogmatic, diathetic, parallel proposi- tions proposed to be received by all mankind. A question match, the game of telegrams, conun- drums, or any intellectual game may be introduced as a "brain-twister." If rewards are given, they may be of basket-work, wire, or other material woven into some pretty trifle of twisted form ; and the booby prize may be a stick of twisted candy. A short programme may include the reading of " An Unfortunate Trellis," from " Platform Pearls " ; the song " Twisting and Turning," often rendered by the Silver Lake Quartette ; and a bright address by the pastor or some leading temperance worker, on "Twisted Con- sciences." Serve refreshments of twisted cakes and EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 83 lemonade, in glasses with a spiral pattern, if convenient ; and the paper napkins should be folded in a tsvisted form. L. M. H. A Eugene Field Evening* (For the Juniors.) The following programme has been found success- ful:— Piano Solo. Sketch of the life and writings of Eugene Field. Recitation. " The Rock-a-by Lady." Recitation. " Booh 1 " Recitation. " Picnic Time." Violin Solo or vocal solo by a Junior. * Recitation. "So, So, Rock-a-by So." Recitation. " Googly Goo." Recitation. '' The Ride to Bumpville." Recitation. " The Cunnin' Little Thing." Music. The sketch of Eugene Field's life may be found in McClure's Magazine for January, 1896. All of the poems are in the collection entitled " Love Songs of Childhood," by Eugene Field. b. h. m. A Marine Social* Drape the walls with blue-green, to suggest a back- ground the color of the sea. Cover a table with the same color, and on it place a collection of odd shells, bits of coral, and other sea-beach or submarine curios. Music may include a cornet or violin solo ; " Rocked in the Cradle of the Deep," with variations, would be 84 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, effective. " Sailing,'' or similar songs, may be added, and a poem or two like the " Chambered Nautilus." Two or three brief papers or talks on such subjects as " Father Ocean's Treasures," "- Ships of the Twentieth Century," " A Submarine Voyage," etc., may be made interesting, interspersed with as many appropriate songs and recitations. Especially charming is the motion song, " Little Wavelets," for which you would need to enlist half a dozen or more of the little girls from the Sunday school primary class, unless the Juniors are small enough. They must wear little white caps, which should be made alike, if possible ; and, if sea-green cambric dresses could be provided also, the effect of the rippling wave- lets, with their white caps, would be heightened. Following are the words of the song ; we do not know its origin. The music can be procured at the kindergarten supply stores, or would doubtless be famil- iar to almost any kindergarten teacher. LITTLE WAVELETS. Once I got into a boat — Such a pretty, pretty boat, — Just as the day was dawning ; And I took a little oar, And I rowed away from shore, So very, very early in the morning. CHORUS. And every little wavelet had its nightcap on, Its nightcap, white cap, nightcap on, EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 85 And every little wavelet had its nightcap on So very, very early in the morning. In their cave so cool and deep All the fishes were asleep Save when the ripple gave them warning. Said the minnow to the skate, ** Do not lie abed so late," So very, very early in the morning. — Cho. Said the sturgeon to the eel, " Just imagine how I feel. Pray do excuse me for yawning. But these folks should let us know When a-rowing they would go So very, very early in the morning." — Cho. The boys might give some sailors' chorus in nautical costume. If it is desired to introduce temperance fea- tures, have for one of the recitations " Sail on," or Lide Merriwether's poem, *' She Sails by the Stars." These should be rendered by a good elocutionist, secured by the temperance committee. Scriptural and poetical quota- tions on the subject of the sea, written on slips of paper each glued to a polished shell, may be used, by their numbers or other indicating mark, to arrange part- ners for refreshments and conversation, and the shells may be kept as souvenirs. Clams, oysters, or other food from the sea should be served. This social may be made an occasion for interesting people in the society's work in behalf of sailors, and a collection may be taken for that object. l. m. h. 86 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. A Qiautatiqua Lawn Social* (French-Greek Year.) " The lawn was illuminated with Chinese lanterns, and at one end a large awning was erected, under which supper was served. The tables were set in the form of a cross, and at each plate, as a souvenir of the occasion, was an artistically engraved card bearing the following inscription: 'Athena Circle, French-Greek Year, 1896- 97 ' ; and on the upper left-hand corner the monogram * C. L. S. C.,' with a Greek cross below it in raised gilt letters embellished with French and Greek colors. About 9.30 the company repaired to the house, where a short literary programme completed the evening. In the house the floral decorations were elaborate, every avail- able place being heavily banked with ferns and French honeysuckles of pink and white. The floral centrepiece for the table was composed of maidenhair ferns, white French honeysuckles, and beautiful * meteor ' roses. The studies of the year were suggested by the French tri- color and the Greek flag, which kept company with the Stars and Stripes on the wall; and the souvenirs of the evening were France and Greece cut out of transparent celluloid, a crescent and a star, representing the study of the sky, these three tied with white, green, and pink. Name cards gave the guests their places at table ; and under them were cards with C. L. S. C. grace, which was chanted by the circle." — The Chautauquan for October, 1897. EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 8/ A State SociaL " The Minnesota Endeavorer suggests a Minnesota evening. The lady's-slipper, the State flower, is to form a prominent part in the decorations, or, after harvest, they will use the grains of Minnesota. Pictures of old settlers and prominent men in the State history will appear about the room. The programme will consist of a sketch of the history of Minnesota, a sketch of its resources, industries, and prospects ; readings from Long- fellow's * Hiawatha ' ; tableaux representing the State seal, the farming industry, and milling, or anything else of State interest ; while for refreshments they will have something distinctive of the State, such as all-wheat bread and butter. A State social thus planned could be held by the Endeavorers of any State. The authors of the State should be well represented on the pro- gramme, as well as the State history, and local inge- nuity can be counted on to make an exceedingly pleasant as well as profitable evening." — The Golden Rule, A Pfoverb SociaL "Sliced proverbs " are prepared, each slip of paper containing a proverb being cut into three or four pieces. These are divided among the guests as they arrive, with instructions to find the persons holding the rest of the proverb. The groups thus formed, holding a complete proverb, begin at a given signal to write lists of proverbs from memory. At the end of twenty minutes have the lists read aloud. To the group having the longest list is 88 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, given a home-made calendar consisting of twelve card- board sheets. On each is a pencil drawing appropriate to the month ; as, for instance, a bunch of pussy-willow blossoms for March, each " pussy " being a tiny cat. The rest of the sheet is filled with a collection of the proverbs printed in The Christian Endeavor Worlds one for each day of the month. The whole calendar is tied together with ribbons. The winning group decides which of their number should receive the calendar. While the judges are making their decision in this contest, readings relating to proverbs may be given. These may be obtained from files of The Christian Endeavor Worlds such as the articles, *' Caleb Cobweb Reviews Some Proverbs," " Braggin' on Aiggs," *' Tell- ing Lies on the Devil." Next may come the game of shouting proverbs, and the entertainment may be closed with shadow pictures illustrating proverbs, and proverb charades.. This entertaining social was originated by the Baptist Young People's Union of Christian Endeavor of Ap- pleton. Wis. A Spring Touf. Arrange the room to resemble a railroad train, seat the " passengers " accordingly, and toward the close have a train-boy pass through with basket of refresh- ments, consisting of apples, pop-corn, and peanuts. An- other may carry the lemonade. As each tourist enters, he is supplied with a " ticket," of which the following will indicate the nature : — EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 89 Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor, Reformed Church, Port Richmond. Spring Tour. Good for one passage from PORT RICHMOND to ST. AUGUSTINE and return via NEW ORLEANS and the places described below. Please read carefully rules printed on back of this ticket, under which the tour is conducted. Description of places : — 1. Uncooked, to tilt the scales. 2. A festive gathering, part of man's attire, Oliver's desire. 3. Monday's occupation, a weight. 4. Opposite of belle, a defence. 5. Part of a head-covering, a relation. 6. One of the church fathers. 7. A tumultuous crowd, water all around. 8. Not old, a royal house of France. 9. An explosion of mirth, forever, the end of Lafayette. 10. A royal weight. 11. A place for loiterers. 12. An opera encore. The above is merely a sample list; others may be added, and the different tickets may contain either a greater or less number, each ticket including some of the same places visited by other "tourists," only in dif- ferent order. The places here described are Rahway, Baltimore, Washington, Beaufort, Tampa, St. Augustine, Mobile, New Orleans, Lafayette, Kingston, Tarrytown, Sing Sing. go EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, " RULES. " Tourists will have thirty minutes for filling in the names of places visited. In so doing, passengers are allowed to consult with other tourists in their car. Only eighty-four trunks allowed each tourist. Society's responsibility for trunks limited to $ioo. The managers cannot be held respon- sible for alpaca umbrellas left in car by tourists, unless they are left in care of the porter, who is a villain and deserves no * quarter.* The brakemen have been taking special instruc- tion at a school of oratory, but the managers cannot be held responsible if they cannot be understood. The conductor has promised to put on a clean white tie every morning, but the managers cannot enforce this. The engineers are all com- petent men, but cannot be held responsible for the tossing of strolling cows or wet tracks, and it is urged that all tourists take along a plentiful supply of ' sand ' for emergencies." Klondike Social, No* 2* This would combine well with a short business meeting, especially in warm weather. With the help of a large map, have an appointed " guide," in a paper or talk, conduct the company on an imaginary tour to the Klondike, not forgetting to mention several remarkable exploits and ludicrous mis- haps of individuals present, as the journey proceeds. Or , the " Klondike " referred to may represent the society's goal of highest success and prosperity, and the route described may include the various lines of endeavor by which it is to reach this goal. Prepare a list of short practical hints for committee work, some gathered from The Union Signal^ The Christian En- deavor Worlds etc., others original; but let them be EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 9 1 new ones so far as your society is concerned. If these are not used in connection with the map, write them separately on bits of paper, which are then twisted up and hidden, to ^ be searched for by all present as " nuggets." The one finding the most nuggets is de- clared king of the Klondike. The suggestions should be preserved for full consideration at the next business meeting, if time does not permit it at this. A paper or talk on gold-mining, a mining-camp story or poem, and two or three musical selections, with the serving of ices, will complete an enjoyable evening. L. M. H. The Young Woman's Christian Temperance Unions have found this a pleasant and successful method of accomplishing what is sometimes a dreaded task, — the collection of dues from the members. We take the central idea from an explanation kindly given us by Mrs. Ella C. Bryant, president of a " Y " at Pittsfield, Mass. A short programme similar to the following may be rendered : — 1. Music. Piano and violin duet. 2. Reading. Selected from The Voice or The Union Signal. 3. Recitation. From " Platform Pearls." 4. Music. Selection from " Y " Song-Book. 5. Debate. " Resolved, That the Young Woman*s Chris- tian Temperance Union is a Disturber of the Peace." 6. ** Treasurer's Delight.^'* This consists of the brief but impressive ceremony of receiving dues. 92 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. Games may follow, such as *' missionary and canni- bal," as given in the *' paper social"; "garden of Ceres," in the " evening with Ceres " ; or " progressive spelling," explained by The Golden Rule as follows : — " To play progressive spelling, form a line and let the person at the head think of a word, and announce the first letter of the word. The person next to him, think- ing of a word beginning with the same letter, announces the second letter of that word. The third player, think- ing of a word beginning with the two letters already given, announces the third letter of that word, and $0 it goes on until some one, by chance or on compulsion, completes the word. In that case he must go to the foot of the row, and his neighbor must begin a new series. To make this clear, suppose the leader begins with C, thinking of < cat.' * H,' adds his neighbor, thinking of ' church.' * I,' adds the third player, think- ing of ' chisel.' * C,' continues the fourth player, thinking of * chicken.' ' A,' says the fifth player, thinking of * chicanery.' If the sixth player does not think of this word, * chicanery,' or of any other word beginning with the five letters already given, he must go to the foot, and his neighbor takes his chance. If any one adds a letter without having in his mind a word in which the letter fits, he may, on being suspected, be challenged by some of the players and sent to the foot. In case, how- ever, the challenge is based on a false suspicion, and the letter is found to fit into some word, then the challenger goes to the foot. " An interesting variety of this game is to arrange the players in two rows facing each other, the spelling proceeding back and forth. In this case the player EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 93 who would, in the first form of the game, go to the foot, passes to the other side, and the game proceeds until one side is entirely depleted." Serve light refreshments, and close the evening with another selection from the " Y " song-book. A Rose Social* Let this be held in June, and be made an occasion for giving pleasure to some who do not often have the enjoyment of either socials or flowers. Missionary and temperance features may be easily introduced in the exercises. Roses in profusion form the decorations, and the programme should consist of songs, recitations, readings, etc., all suggestive of the flower. In Miss Alcott's books may be found several selections charming for such an occasion. " Little Button Rose," already mentioned in connection with the button social; ex- tracts from " Eight Cousins," " Rose in Bloom," or "The Rose Family" in " Morning-Glories," — any of these would be pleasing to most tastes. Or, instead of the readings, have six or eight mem- bers of the society, representing as many different varieties of the rose, each give an original account of the garden in which that rose was supposed to grow, with some imaginary incidents forming a short story. The Young Woman's Christian Temperance Union in particular will recognize the temperance possibilities in this series of anecdotes. Let the audience decide by vote on the best description or story thus given, the winner to receive some dainty trifle shaped like a rose, or suggestive of roses in art or literature. 94 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. " Conversational rose-leaves " may then be intro- duced. Topics are prepared on sheets of note-paper, as for the Washington's Birthday social, only decorated with roses instead of flags, the exercises being con- ducted in the same way; or another method which might be substituted is to pass to each guest, a few minutes before serving the refreshments, a pale pink, white, or yellow paper napkin, twisted into the resem- blance of a rose, and containing in its depths a slip of paper on which is written a witt}^ or wise saying. Have these prepared four alike, or four by each author thus quoted, giving the author's name. The holders of these related quotations get together, and discuss the subject or the author. Fifteen minutes are given to this part of the evening, during which time cake anc] ice-cream are served. A rose is given to each guest when departing; and the remaining unwilted roses may be placed in water or packed in damp cotton to be sent early the next day to some hospital or charitable institution. L. M. H. An Evening in Holland* " The Lowell Club of Boone, lo., celebrated its first meeting in a unique and fitting manner at the home of one of the members. In accordance with their study of Holland, the hostess transformed her house into a veri- table Dutch dwelling; the walls were festooned with red peppers, corn, dried apples, etc., while the spinning- wheel, old-fashioned chairs, and blue-bordered china plates ranged in rows on the shelves fitted in very appro- priately; none but Dutch dishes were served at the EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 95 supper, after which the hostess presented each guest with a delft cup and saucer. The Dutch costumes worn by the ladies wxre much admired." — The ChaiitaM- quan for January, 1897. A Missionafy SociaL This combines two suggestions from The Golden Rule, Place tables about the room, containing prettily ar- ranged representations of the various countries in which your denomination has missions. For example, one table may bear a china tea-set, standing for China; another, various articles of India-rubber, and a bottle of India ink ; and another, cards bearing the following six mysterious signs : — 1000 E 10 i 100 o This represents " Mexico." Each visitor must be provided with a pencil and paper, and write the names as fast as he guesses them. Follow this with a <' mission- ary salad," as tried by the First Congregational Chris- tian Endeavor Society at Albany. Prepare the leaves of green tissue-paper crumpled to resemble lettuce, fastening a long stem of common white paper to each leaf. These stems contain printed items clipped from The Golden Rule and other papers, interesting mission- ary information from all parts of the world. During the singing of the first hymn this salad is passed around, and every one is expected to take a leaf, and afterward to read its contents. Cake and chocolate may be served, and the evening closed with music, 96 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. A Boston-Suburb Social of a Longfellow Evenings The social committee of the Deems Memorial Society of Christian Endeavor recently prepared a programme for a " Longfellow evening " with a few novel features. The social was announced as a " Boston-suburb social." This name was given because of the fact that Longfel- low's home was at Cambridge. Cards were prepared on which were pasted quotations from Longfellow's writings, the selections being cut from a " Longfellow Birthday Book." The advantage in using the " Birthday Book " in preference to a book of Longfellow's poems is that the name of the poem from which each quotation is taken is given in each case. After these quotations were pasted on, the cards.were cut from top to bottom and then mixed. These half- cards were then distributed among the guests. The cards had been so prepared that, when they were cut in two, each half of a card contained a printed statement at the top, indicating the nature of the en- tertainment, and a statement to the effect that the holder of the other half of the quotation was in the room, the idea being to have the holders of the different parts of the same quotation find each other, and in this way make the affair one of sociability. On the reverse side of the cards were twenty lines numbered from one to twenty inclusive. After all of the cards had been matched, twenty selections from Longfellow's poems were read, and the guests present were asked to write on their respective cards the names of the poems from which the particular selections read had been taken. EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, 9/ After the twenty selections had been read, the names of the poems from which they were taken were an- nounced, and suitable rewards given to the gentleman and the lady having the greatest num.ber of correct answers. To the lady was given a copy of Longfellow's poems and to the gentleman " Scottish Chiefs," by Jane Porter. A programme had also been arranged consisting of a paper giving a sketch of the life of the poet. Two or three of Longfellow's poems were also recited, and the music consisted of singing, two selections from Longfel- low being rendered, " The Bridge " and " Excelsior." The following will illustrate the manner in which the cards were prepared. It will be noted that the printing at the top reads in two ways, first as a whole, and then each half as a complete statement by itself. AN EVENING WITH LONGFELLOW ON FRIDAY, NIGHT OF JUNE 10, 1898, WITH THE DEEMS MEMORIAL CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOR IMMANUEL CHURCH, SOCIETY OF PROHIBITION PARK, WESTERLEIGH, S. I. To complete the quotation You will be able in this room to discover the holder of the other half. Match your card and read the lines. Time has laid his hand Upon my heart, gently, not smiting it, But as a harper lays his open palm Upon his harp, to deaden its vibrations. — The Golden Legend, Please Keep This. Please Keep This. 98 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, A Belated Picnic* (Held by the Y. W. C. T. U.) " Our little Watertown Y had long been discussing the best method of interesting the young people in our circle of endeavor. Miss Caswell would be glad to present to them the what, the how, and the why, if they could only be brought together. < A belated picnic ' was selected as a unique and attractive entertainment, and such it proved to be. " Some two weeks previous to the evening of the social, brown-paper invitations were distributed as widely as possible. The first page bore the address ; the second, ' Summer Attire,' and on the girls', < Luncheon for Two ' ,• while on the third page was written the invitation. "Just outside the door of the Baptist vestry was a large sign reading, 'Picnic Grounds — 8 to lo.' The lunch-baskets were numbered, and so were the young men; hence, when a girl came to claim her basket at luncheon-time, she also found a young man. " Little placards and signs were posted about the room, directing one to the * Bowling Alley,' a diminutive set of ninepins ; to the * Shooting Gallery,' where a rubber-tipped arrow did duty ; to the ' Croquet Grounds ' consisting of a parlor set of croquet ; and to the '■ Picture Gallery.' A tent had been erected in one corner, where a sibyl told the fortunes of the many who longed for a glance into the future. Evergreen boughs and trees, and a well of lemonade, made of a wash-tub, and ever- green trimmings, gave quite a picnic-like appearance to the place. A large white Y hung just back of Miss EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. 99 Caswell as in a few earnest words she presented the work of the Y. " One by one the lights went out, and, as night drew on, the picniclcers departed for home, declaring the Y social a great success. And such we considered it as we read the list of names to be taken into our Union at its next meeting." A Watertown Y, A Spinning Social* Open the evening with music, preferably a " spinning- song " piano selection. A poem, such as Miss Wray's " Three Fates," may be read, also one of Miss Alcott's " Spinning-Wheel Stories." The parlor or library should contain a spinning-wheel, with all the accessories. Try to enlist an obliging grandma to show exactly how it was used in her childhood. If this is out of the ques- tion, have the best possible imitation by some bright young lady or small girl in costume. All present may try their skill on the busy wheel, the most successful receiving a reward, which may be a miniature spinning- wheel, a copy of Miss Alcott's book above mentioned, or some pretty article of silk or china, decorated with a hand-painted spinning-wheel. An essay or talk on '' Spiders as Architects " may be given. A succession of " yarns " may be spun, in which the one relating the most improbable story is honored with the title of " fibmaster-general." Skeins of yarn may be used to arrange partners for refreshments, one end being tied to a lady's sleeve, the other being given, by a circuitous route, to a gentleman, who must wind his way to the goal. 100 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, Close the evening with simple refreshments and music. Each guest might carry home as a memento a piece of the yarn, wound on a small, appropriately decorated card, or on a spool with the date on one end and a spinning- wheel on the other. l. m. h, A Hidden Mttsicale* Each guest is furnished with a copy, typewritten if convenient, of a list of sentences, each containing the con- cealed name of some musical composer. The Voice pub- lishes the following list, which we give as suggestive : — ♦ I . My thum^ acM^ where I crushed it. 2. O sweet music ^ver divint ! t 3. The sting of the bee, tho -z/^/^omous, is never fatal. , 4. At parting he extended a hand ^/egantly gloved. u 5. They weigh with such weights as drach/^, oz., — ^r/icles used by druggists. ^ 6. The fright has made his head wag ;^^rvously. 7. It seems to me that ea^^ opinion is worthy con- sideration. 8. The cowboy tried to \2iS>so us around the neck. 9. He is fickle. He adopts ai* chum a ;/ew person every week. 10. I could not sell the hal/" lot, owvag to the mort- gage on it. 11. Do what you will, I can no longer. » 12. This is no rose. Go, tmodoroMs weed! 13. An old negro who cutj her wood, carries coal, and does gardening. 14. The sons of Jonadab, the son of Rech^^, /00k no wine. 15. I faint ! I gdiSp I Oh, raise me up ! EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. lOI A reward may be given to the one discovering the greatest -number of these hidden musicians, and a booby prize to the one^finding the fewest. In the game of ''dumb musicians," it is the sound of the music that is " hidden." It is played as follows : — " The company seat themselves in a semicircle. Each one goes through the movements of playing the instru- ment to which he is assigned by the conductor. The fiddler bows with vigor over an imaginary violin, the clarinet-player lengthens his face and frisks his fingers on an imaginary instrument, the cornet-player must sacri- fice vanity, and puff out his cheeks to the utmost extent, and the others imitate as best they may the remainder of the instruments chosen. The conductor seats himself on a chair facing his dumb orchestra. When all is ready, the conductor gives a signal and the musicians begin their gesticulations. The conductor himself pretends to play the instrument which he has chosen for himself. Suddenly, without any warning, the conductor abandons his own instrument and begins playing that of some one of the other players. The player whose instrument is thus taken from him must forthwith begin to play upon that one which the conductor abandoned. If he fails to observe the change, and continues to play his original instrument, he must pay a forfeit." Have ready cards on which are written the names of well-known pieces of music, one on each card. Cut each in three pieces, and have the holders of the related frag- ments get together. Serve light refreshments, and close with a short programme of vocal and instrumental music, proceeding from the concealed side of a large screen. L. M. H. I02 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, A Qbautauqua Evening* (German-Roman Year.) This was taken from a description in The Chautati- quan of a social and literary evening given by Primrose Circle, Dundas, Ontario. The house was ablaze with light, different colors softly diffused by the different colored lamp-shades. About 8.15 the president took the chair, and by the time an instrumental duet was played the audience had settled themselves down for the intellectual treat expected. They were not disappointed. The answers to roll-call were given from any German or Roman author, and were exceptionally fine, some of the authors so quoted being Luther, Goethe, Schiller, Ovid, and Horace. The president's address followed, after which two papers were rendered, dealing entirely with German topics ; one on " German Women," the other on " Frederick the Great," giving snap-shots of that celebrated personage at different periods of his life, with historic scenes form- ing the background. A recitation, " Robert of Sicily," an address by the vice-president, two songs, and a piano solo, completed the programme. A " circulating library '' of thirteen books, including the grave, the gay, the sub- lime, and the ridiculous, was depicted by as many mem- bers in appropriate costume, the company guessing their titles, and writing their guesses on cards, a reward being given to the most successful. Slips of paper were distributed marked with counties and county towns of Ontario. This meant that the county was to look after the interests of its county town during the light repast served. EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. I03 A Flower SociaL Begin with a piano solo, something like " The Wak- ing of the Spring Flowers," and a vocal solo or duet also with a floral title. A bright, appropriate magazine story may be read in addition. Then furnish each one present with a card containing a number and a letter. Persons whose cards bear the same number get together, and by combining the various letters in the right order find that they spell the name of a flower. Each group is then required to compose, by their joint efforts, a poem upon their flower. A reward, such as a fine bou- quet, may be awarded to the group producing the best poem; and a souvenir of a bunch of violets or other flowers tied with the society's colors may be presented to each one present. This social is given nearly as devised by the Lutheran Christian Endeavor Society of Martinsburg, W. Va. A "Willafd Evening* Decorations: White cheese-cloth, festooned with ferns or smilax, white ribbon, or white crinkled tissue- paper in strips to represent ribbon ; potted plants, with pots covered with white tissue-paper ; and a large picture of Miss Frances E. Willard on an easel decorated with flowers and smilax. Roll-call of members. Each responding with quotation from Miss Willard's writings. Singing. *' How firm a foundation ! " Sketch of Miss Willard. As a Friend. As an Educator. As a Reformer. Singing, ** The Old Oaken Bucket." I04 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. Address. The World's and National Woman's Christian Temperance Union. — Her memorial more lasting than wood and stone. A memorial of temperance, purity, and equality. Singing. "It's Coming Some Glad Day." (In "White Ribbon Hymnal.") All clasp hands. Refreshments : Cocoa and wafers tied with narrow white ribbon. E. A. B. "Wheel SociaL Wheel-shaped cards of invitation may bear the monogram of the society for the hub. Fasten a large paper wheel to the wall at one side of the room, the spokes each containing a written question with a num- ber. Cards of the same shape are passed, with spokes left blank, but numbered to correspond with the question numbers on the large wheel. A contest in answering the questions without consultation follows, each one adding his name to his card of answers. When the time is up, collect or exchange the cards, and compare the answers given with the correct ones. A miniature bicycle may be given to the winner, while a booby prize of a small oil-can will serve to oil the rusty wheels of the unfortunate memory. As the guests have been requested to come on their bicycles if convenient, a fifteen or twenty minutes' " bicycle conversation " may be held, changing part- ners two or three times, with the help of sliced sen- tences beginning with the letters contained in the word " bicycle." This gives an opportunity to discuss and compare handle-bars, bells, bearings, pedals, gears, etc., as well as various bicycle adventures. To this might EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. IO5 be added a musical selection or two, — a chime of bicy- cle bells would be desirable, — and a paper or talk on the latest bicycle improvements, with perhaps one appro- priate story or poem. If the social is held during April, the following poem might be recited : — APRIL'S MISHAP. Bonnie April, cease your pouting, I entreat. Cease this wavering and doubting, And be sweet. Why indulge in frowns and tears As in foolish, bygone years ? Till your sunny presence cheers, April, you are incomplete ; Very incomplete. Drooping April, look above you, I insist. For of course you know we love you, Sunshine-kissed. But — ah ! now the tears have fled ; Lifted is the winsome head. First we scold, then praise instead. April, you'd be sadly missed, Very sadly missed. What is this, O saucy maiden ? I declare 1 Winter's treasury, snow-laden. Scarce can spare All these feathery flakes you borrow. What new mischief on the morrow Have you for our joy or sorrow ? April, tell us if you dare ! Yes^ 't is plain you dare. I06 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. APRIL'S REPLY. Now, against this dire complaining I protest. True, the sunshine's mixed with raining, Tears with jest ; But IVe cause for agitation. Listen to my explanation. I could not resist temptation, As you surely must have guessed, Had I not confessed. Others on their wheels were spinning ; Why not I .? So I mounted and, beginning. Thought I'd try. March and May on either side. Laden well, when — woe betide I Chanced we roughly to collide ; And I could but laugh and cry. Nor repress a sigh. Punctured tires and wheels half shattered, — And bet^\ixt, There our weather-parcels, scattered, Lay transfixed 1 Think you 't is a cause for wonder If the sunshine, snow, and thunder. By this most unusual blunder, Should get just a trifle mixed ? Very slightly mixed ? At the close of the programme, or preceding it, serve refreshments of cakes cut in wheel shape, and lemonade. L. M, u. EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. lO/ An Evening with Schillen In an evening given by the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circk of Troy, Ala., and described in The Chautauquan^ "the guests on entering the hall were reminded of the land of the poet's nativity by the German colors, red, white, yellow, and black, artisti- cally entwined in the grill-work overhead. This color- scheme was carried out in the decorations of the parlors and dining-room, in bunting, ribbons, flowers, and china decorations." Quotations from Schiller were given by the circle, and appropriate poems and papers were read. The programmes are described as being " veritable works of art, the covers being hand-painted with the design, corn- flower, — Germany's national flower. These will be kept, cherished souvenirs of the occasion." The game of " characteristics " followed. Then the supper, where the dainties served and the floral decorations were alike pleasing ; and after the supper coffee was served by a beautiful " Gretchen." A Trio Socials Have a reception committee of three, and it would be well for each to wear a costume of one distinctive hue, taking care that the three colors chosen are har- monious. Place chairs in groups of three, and have a trio of three -minute conversations. This may be ar- ranged by passing triangular cards, along each edge of which is written a topic of current or general interest, and in each corner a number. The holder of the card I08 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS^ is to notice the number at the left of the written topic announced by the leader to be the subject of the first conversation. Two other persons have the same num- ber, and the three get together and converse on the topic. At the end of the three minutes the next topic is taken in the same way, then the third, changing groups by the card numbers, so as to bring a different trio together each time. A brief programme may be rendered consisting of three readings or recitations, alternating with three musical selections, vocal or instrumental, one of which may be itself a trio. The latter part of the evening may be chiefly occupied with games. These should be three in number, and may include one written game, such as " telegrams " or " book-reviewing " ; one guessing or memory contest; and one test of skill in throwing or aiming at a mark. Near the close of the evening a march may be played, and the company, arranged in threes by means of sliced words or dissected pictures, may march, three abreast, thrice around the parlors and into the room where refreshments are served. These, another trio, may consist of fruit, cake, and lemonade. The cake should be in three layers, and the fruit might be of three kinds mixed. Sliced bananas, oranges cut in small pieces, and strawberries combine well, served with sugar, in small dishes. The refreshments may be passed by three waitresses dressed in Japanese costume, to repre- sent the *' three little maids from school " of Mikado fame. A good selection for one of the recitations of the evening would be Will Carleton's " Worried About Katherine." The Young Woman's Christian Temper- EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. IO9 ance Union especially will appreciate its bright debate on higher education for girls ; and it may be given by three girls dressed appropriately, or the whole may be recited by a good elocutionist. The selection is to be found in " Platform Pearls." If desired, a tableau might be added, of three ragged, mischievous-looking urchins, announced as " The Three Disgraces." l. m. h. A Poppy Social ; of, An Evening with Jack o^ Dreams. Light should proceed entirely from candles, and the decorations should be subdued in color, except for a vase or two of brilliant poppies. Music is in order while the guests are assembling. "Jack o' Dream.s," dressed in fanciful costume, including a bright-colored cap, acts as master of ceremonies, making a brief speech alluding to the connection between poppies and dreams, and announcing the various exercises. The reading of a dream story or poem comes first, followed by a piano selection which might be a " Cradle Song." Recitation, '^ The Poor Poet's Lullaby," from The Gol- den Rule, is next. If the " Little Wavelets " motion song, suggested for the marine social, has not been given in your community, introduce it here ; or, if it has been, it will bear repetition and will be heartily welcomed. The game of " rigmarole," applied to dreams, can be played as follows : Let the first player begin by telling one of his dreams or a portion of one. Stopping short, as dreams usually do, it is taken up by his neighbor, who proceeds to relate more dreamland adventures, in 1 1 EIGHTY PLEASANT E VENINGS. turn passing it to the next, etc. The dreams should have at least a thread of connection. Or the well-known guessing game, " What is my thought like ? " can be used in slightly altered form., substituting " dream " for ^' thought." A paper on <' My Dream of the Future " can foretell the wonderful future achievements of the society. Re- freshments of thin slices of bread and butter, chocolate or lemonade, and cold sliced meat, garnished with let- tuce leaves, may be served by several young ladies dressed respectively in pink, blue, cream, violet, etc., each costume being a "dream " of color effect, the one hue from head to foot. Close with a " slum.ber song " sung in duet or trio. l. m. h. An Evening of Short Cuts^ Invitations may be in the shortened spelling used by the American Philological Society, and the exercises may include a debate on the advantages and disadvan- tages of spelling reform. A stereopticon talk may take the guests, by a " short cut," to California, Europe, the Philippines, Cuba, the last national Convention, or wher- ever determined; a dozen views being sufficient, with brief explanations. The musical selections may include a medley; and a portion of them should be '' cut short," stopping sud- denly when about three-quarters through. Conversation is started in small groups by some simple device, but is cut short by the introduction of the game " follow my leader." Everything the leader says or does must be imitated exactly by the entire company, the fun consist- ing of the rapid changes and sudden stops which the EIGHTY PLEASANT E VENINGS. 1 1 1 leader introduces, and which some of the company will be slow to follow. It is curious to note how much easier it is to begin many things than to stop, even at a given signal. The laggards should be required, as a penalty, to invent and explain an entirely new " short cut to fame and fortune." Let them consult together and announce the result of their deliberations. The game of "rigmarole" may follow. Some one begins to tell a most thrilling adventure, and stops short at the most exciting point, leaving his neighbor to take up the thread of the narrative. This may be cut short by the appearance of refresh- ments, which consist appropriately of the tiniest cups of coffee, and sandwiches cut an inch and a quarter square. The cups and plates may be replenished, however. The paper napkins may have one corner cut off, and near the edge thus made a motto or quotation may be printed, or simply the date, the name of the society, and the words, " Evening of Short Cuts." Those who desire may retain these as souvenirs. l. m. h. An Arctic Exploring Toun One room is arranged to resemble the deck or cabin of a ship. Another room adjoining, or across the hall, may be decorated with cotton snow-banks, paper icicles, one or more of the miniature " snowstorm " paper- weights to be found in any department store ; and in the centre of the room have the north pole, suitably labelled, covered with silver paper, for ice, and decked with snow. Guests should first be ushered into the steamer or 112 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. ship, where they listen to a programme such as this : A magazine article on the subject of Lieutenant Peary's travels ; a reading, descriptive of glaciers, from Profes- sor Winchell's " Walks and Talks in the Geological Field " ; and the " iceberg " portion of George Mac- donald's " At the Back of the North Wind." A description of the Montreal ice palace might be added. Have a conversational game, conducted as in the Washington's Birthday social, on such topics as " Skating," " Tobogganing," " Is the north pole made of wood, aluminum, or green cheese ? " " Which wouM you rather be, an Eskimo or an Aztec, and why ? " ** Civilization as affected by the question, « Who should build the fire in the morning ? ' " etc. Pass to each guest a snowball made of cotton, contain- ing a slip of paper on which is written a line of winter poetry. The one who holds a line rhyming with it must be found, thus arranging partners for refreshments, which are served in the arctic region around the north pole. It may add to the interest, if to each snowball is attached a string, the other end of which is fastened to the north pole. In the " exploring tour " necessary to find partners the strings will become somewhat interlaced, but this adds to the delightful intricacies of the situa- tion. Close the evening with music, and let the guests retain their conversation cards as souvenirs. L. M. H. Longfellow^s Dream* Although this entertainment may be called literary and artistic rather than social, yet it suggests conversa- tion ; and where it was given, it was so marked a sue- EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. II3 cess that it was not only repeated by request, but was borrowed for a third occasion by another society in the same town. Select thirty or forty of Longfellow's characters most easily represented in costume and most graphically described in his poems. Arrange a platform and curtains for tableaux vivants, and enlist a good reader, also some one who understands artistic grouping. When the curtain is first drawn aside, it displays a young man representing Longfellow in his youth, seated in an armchair, in a reflective attitude, one hand sup- porting his head, and apparently lost in day-dreams. The reader then proceeds with the selected passages, while the characters described pass slowly across the platform between Longfellow and the audience. A slight pause between the readings may be introduced ; but they should be nearly continuous, merely allowing each character to make the required journey before beginning to describe the next. When all have passed, the curtain is drawn, and music fills the interval while the characters are being grouped for the final tableau. This, when well arranged, is very striking and beautiful. It represents Longfellow as an old man, seated in the same armchair, with the creations of his fancy grouped about him and the Spirit of Poetry in the act of crowning him with a wreath of laurels. The children are nearest the poet, playing almost at his feet, while the others are standing, grouped as their various heights and costumes require for the best effect. The platform must of course be a large one. Gauze stretched across the front, and a red light burned during the tableau, add to its beauty and effect ; 114 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS, also the singing, in chorus or as a solo, from behind the scenes, of a verse lauding the poet and speeding the Spirit of Poetry in her mission. Softly played instru- mental music may be substituted. A few of the many characters for representation are Priscilla, John Alden, Miles Standish, Basil the black- smith, Evangeline, Brother Anthony and Brother Timo- thy, Mistress Stavers in her " furbelows," the Preceptor, Almira, the " Princess of the Fairy Isles," the parson who "lopped the wayside lilies with his cane," the Spanish Jew, the Student, Hiawatha, and Minnehaha. An Evening with the Trees^ As the guests arrive, each one is furnished with a pressed leaf, which is pinned on as a buttonhole bouquet. If the season does not permit fresh leaves, drawings of the various kinds of forest leaves might be substituted. No one is to tell what kind of leaf he possesses, but each is to write down a list of the different varieties he observes decorating his neighbors. When these lists are completed and collected, pin a slip of paper contain- ing the name of some tree to the back of each person present. In his effort to discover what tre^* he repre- sents each may ask his friends any question concerning it answerable by " Yes " or " No." Following this may be a contest of verse-writing. Allow a set time, fifteen minutes, perhaps, for each person to write an original poem, taking for his subject the tree which he represents. Judges are then appointed to select the best poem. While they are inspecting and deciding, the company may play the game of ** trans- EIGHTY PLEASANT E VENINGS, 1 1 5 planting trees," by arranging letters given in miscella- neous order, into their correct sequence to form names of trees ; for instance, written upon the blackboard are the letters y-o-k-r-i-c-h, which are readily recognized when arranged as " hickory." Rewards may be provided for the best poem, for the lists most nearly completed, also for the one who first discovers the name of the tree pinned upon his back. Appropriate rewards would be some book or poem on nature, a choice specimen of fruit, or some pretty or odd trifle made of a particular kind of wood. Refreshments may consist wholly of fruit and nuts. For the description of this social, we are indebted to Miss Nellie E. Wanzer. An Evening with The Christian Endeavor WorlcL This is based. on the description, furnished by Eva A. Denton, of " An Evening with The Golden Ruhy The rooms are arranged to represent the different departments of The Christian Endeavor World. One corner, the advertising page, is draped in muslin and covered with bright, selected advertisements cut from the files of that paper. In the " Workers' Exchange " department or room, a committee conference is held, each officer receiving clippings on the work of his committee, and retiring with the clippings and the committee to a different room, where he discusses plans and decides which ones to try. Then a meeting of all the committees is held, where the approved plans are presented and noted down by the secretary. Il6 EIGHTY PLEASANT EVENINGS. For the "Wide World of Endeavor" take the best news items from the same file, and paste them on a specially prepared map of the world, over the country reported. This map, in the instance described, was as large as the side of the room, and had little candles to represent Christian Endeavor societies. For the Junior and prayer-meeting pages, hold brief prayer-meetings on the topic for the week, following as minutely as time will permit the '* Suggestions for Leaders." Two or three short readings or recitations may be given from " The Treasure Chamber," or " Endeavorers in Council." The " Telephone Exchange " is a bright feature of the proceedings. The keyhole of the door is used as the speaking-tube, to which one applies one's mouth and asks a question relative to Christian Endeavor work, and receives an answer from the president, who may consult his book as occasion requires. For " Strictly Business " the secretary sits at a desk with a careworn expression upon his face, a pen stuck over each ear, and his ink-stained fingers holding another pen, with which he is writing. Add a brimming waste- basket, a pile of letters, answered and unanswered, and decorate the walls, desk, and chair with his past medita- tions ; and the representation is complete. At the " post-office " each guest applies for and re- ceives in an envelope addressed to himself one of Dr. Clark's " Familiar Letters," some of the most pointed ones being selected. During the evening subscriptions may be taken for The Christian Endeavor World, and at the close each EIGHTY PLEASANT E VENINGS. 1 1 / person is presented with a copy of the paper, a Christian Endeavor calendar for one month, and a " Golden Rule Proverb." The invitations might be sent on cards of a circular shape, on which a globe is drawn, bearing the C. E. monogram. Qassics of the Quiet Hour^ Selections for every day in the month. EDITED BY Francis £• Clark, D» D. Handsomely printed and daintily bound. Price, 23 cents each, postpaid. THE PRESENCE OF GOD. Selections from the Devotional Works of Bishop Jeremy Taylor. LIVING AND LOVING. Selections from the Devotional Works of Professor A. Tholuck. THE GOLDEN ALPHABET. Selections from the works of Master John Tauler. THE KINGDOM WITHIN. Selections from " The Imitation of Christ," by Thomas a Kempis. United Society of Christian Endeavor^ Boston and Chicago. The Deeper Life Series* Handsomely printed and daintily bound. Illustrated. PricCf 2J cents eack, postpaid. WELL-BUILT. Rev. Theodore L. Cuyler, D. D. ANSWERED1 Rev. J. Wilbur Chapman, D. D., Rev. R. A. Torrey, D.D., Rev. C. H. Yatman, Rev. Edgar E. David- son, and Thomas E. Murphy. THE INDWELLING GOD. Rev. Charles A. Dickinson, D. D. LITTLE SERMONS FOR ONE. Amos R. Wells. A FENCE OF TRUST. {Poems,) Mrs. Mary F. Butts. United Society of Christian Endeavor. Boston and Chicago. BOOKS BY REV. FRANQS E. CLARK, D.D. PRICB The Presence of God $0»25 Living and Loving 25 The Kingdom Within 25 The Golden Alphabet 25 The Great Secret 30 Young PeopIe^s Prayer Meetings 75 Looking Out on Life .75 A Book for Young Women. Danger Signals .75 A Book for Young Men. Mossback Correspondence J ♦00 Some Christian Endeavor Saints .... UOO Ways and Means 125 Sent on receipt of price by UNITED SOCIETY OF CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOR 646 Washington Street Boston^ Mass* J55 La SaUe Street Chicago, Ills* Our Workcks Ldj^ary. Helpful Books for Christian Workers. Bound in Cloth* Only 35 Cts* Each^ postpaid* SOCIAI. FVENINGS. By Amos R. Wells. This is the most widely used collection of games and social entertainments ever made. No social committee is at all well equipped without a copy. Invaluable also for individual use. SOCIAIi TO SAVE. By Amos R. Wklls. A companion volume to "Social Evenings." Everything new and fresh. A mine of enjoyment for the society and home circle. WEAPONS FOR TEMPERANCE WARFARE. By Belle M. Brain. Full of ammunition for temperance meetings. Hundreds of facts, illustrations, suggestions, bright programmes, quotations, statistics. Everything practical and to the point. No more dry temperance meetings. FtJEI. FOR MISSIONARY FIRES. By Belle M. Brain. 115 pages. A beautiful book, packed full of practical plans for missionary committees. Everything tried and proved. It will make your missionary meetings the brightest you ever held. It will rouse your society to a burning interest in this greatest of all great endeavors,— the world for Christ. PRAYER-MEETING METHODS. By Amos R.Wells. This book contains by far the most comprehensive collection of prayer- meeting plans ever made. OUR UNIONS. By Amos R. Wells. The only book ever pub- lished wholly devoted to Christian Endeavor unions of all kinds, their oflficers, work, and conventions. The convention sug- gestions alone are worth the price of the book. NEXT STEPS. By Rev. W. F. McCauley. Here is a book for every Christian Endeavor worker. It is a storehouse of sugges- tions. It deals not with theories, but with practical, workable methods. As a statement of Christian Endeavor principles and methods, it is unexcelled. If you want to help some earnest work- ers, make them a present of this book. CITIZENS IN TRAINING. By Amos R. Wells. A complete manual of Christian Citizenship, written especially for Christian Endeavorers that desire to make their country better. Tells just what to do and how to do it. Twelve chapters. Eighty-five sep- arate articles and plans ONLY 35 CENTS EACH, POSTPAID. Send orders with remittance to United Society of Christian Endeavor, 646 Washington Street, I 155 La Salle Street, Boston, Mass. | Chicago, 111. ^^Pia 18S8 LIBRARY OF CONGRESS ■llilllllllii •! 020 237 505 4