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CASTE IN AMERICAN SOCIETY.
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one person, after all, and that the impressions of an evening or of quick reading are less valuable than the criticisms of lengthier observation and reflection. Our critics are able, and honest and true, as far as in their power lies, but under the necessity of daily production, which must injure original quality and expression; yet they exercise upon the public the formative power of the old salon, and render null any necessity for its existence.

The second reason for the absence of salons lies in the non-existence of any one circle of people who, by virtue of inheritance, actual deed, or promissory note, can definitely establish their own social boundaries. American life is too busy for definition; men are too tired, women too anxious, to feel the delight of constant recreation through conversation at one another's firesides. We are all so willing to be hospitable by the blazing warmth on our own purchased or ancestral andirons, that there are few who go out for

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