#60

Ball of 2nd Corps--Washington's birthday, Morgan collection of Civil War drawings (Library of Congress)

Dancing was a large part of the recreation of the Civil War. Various dancing manuals existed, some small enough to fit in vest pockets. H.G.O. Washburn gave some hints on ettiquite in his book about Spanish dances:

"Ladies should avoid affectation, frowning, quizzing, or the slightest indication of ill-temper. Command the unlimited attention of your partners, but impose the task upon them in such a manner as to make it delightful rather than onerous."

"A gentleman should never allow himself to lose his temper in a ball-room, nor show that he has taken offence at any supposed slight; it places him in a very disadvantageous position, betraying an absence of self-respect--or, at least of self-possession."