It shows the similarity of our tastes, and encourages me to expect that some of my recommendations will be accepted.
Will some one inform me why so many varieties of wines are always served on American tables, and why the sparkling champagne is never avoidable?
Wealthy families will spare neither pains nor expense to spread most sumptuous dinners, and it has been reported that the cost of an entertainment given by one rich lady amounted to twenty thousand pounds sterling, although, as I have said, eating is the last thing for which the guests assemble.
I do not suppose that many will agree with me, but in my opinion it would be much more agreeable, and improve the general conversation, if all drinks of an intoxicating nature were abolished from the dining table.

It is gratifying to know that there are some families (may the number increase every day!) where intoxicating liquors are never seen on their tables.

The first instance of this sort that came under my notice was in the home of that excellent woman, Mrs.M.F.Henderson, who is an ardent advocate of diet reform and teetotalism.

Mr.William Jennings Bryan, the Secretary of State, has set a noble example, as from newspaper reports it appears that he gave a farewell dinner to Ambassador Bryce, without champagne or other alcoholic drinks.

He has a loyal supporter in Shanghai, in the person of the American Consul-General, Dr.A.P.Wilder, who, to the great regret of everybody who knows him in this port, is retiring from the service on account of ill-health.