Edwardian Etiquette for Invitations

There must be no delay in answering an invitation to a dinner, breakfast, home wedding luncheon, card party, wedding breakfast or theater.

About Invitations

• A first invitation should be accepted if, possible. 
• A note of invitation to a dinner, luncheon or theater party should have a written note of reply within twenty-four hours so that the hostess may have time to fill the place should a guest be unable to accept. 
• It is polite to give reasons for declining an invitation, such as a previous engagement or absence from town. If a previous engagement is mentioned it is courteous to explain its nature. 
• An invitation should never be accepted provisionally as, for instance, "I should be delighted to accept your charming invitation if I am well enough" or "if I am in town." 
• An invitation once accepted is a binding obligation. If illness or any other cause rises, making it impossible to a dinner or luncheon after having accepted, an immediate note of explanation and regret should be sent to the hostess. 
• There must be no delay in answering an invitation to a dinner, breakfast, home wedding luncheon, card party, wedding breakfast or theater. – From “Good Form,” 1911

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