Team of Rivals

"'First to Mrs. Seward's' columnist Cara Kasson reported, where Anna Seward officiated in the absence of Frances.  A black doorman delivered their card to yet another servant, 'who places it in the silver-card receiver, at the same moment ushering us in (names clearly pronounced),k to the presence of Mrs. Seward.' Greetings were exchanged and refreshments served, before proceeding to the next reception at Mrs. Caleb Smith's.  There they found 'an elegantly set table, salads and all good things.'  After visiting Mrs. Welles, who always entertained 'in her friendly manner,' the ladies would 'take a glass of wine at Mrs. Blair's, admire the queenly dignity of Mrs. Bates, and then drive on to pay our respects to Mrs. McClellan and Mrs. Stanton.'"  (434)