Afternoon tea is one of the fastest-growing trends in America. Hotels, country inns, and tearooms are reviving this most relaxing repast. The customs and courtesies associated with serving tea are new to many Americans eager to use tea as an alternative to the business lunch or dinner, or as a special event. This book, written by one of America's foremost authorities on etiquette and protocol, is a fanciful, but correct, guide to the pleasures of tea at home and for business purposes. Etiquette is the tapestry woven throughout this delightful book which aims to inform and amuse the novice and the connoisseur. Step-by-step guidelines include the history and legends of tea, hosting an afternoon tea at home, brewing the perfect pot of tea and serving it with aplomb, going out to tea in tearooms, restaurants and hotels, a complete guide to being a great host or guest during this pleasant alternative to the business lunch or dinner.