4th Figure.—­Top lady and vis-a-vis gentleman advance four steps; second lady and her vis-a-vis then do the same; each couple turns partner back to places.  Ladies in all four couples move four steps to the right, each taking her neighbour’s place; gentlemen then move four steps to the left, each into next neighbour’s place.  Ladies again to the right; gentlemen again to the left.  Promenade round, turn partners to places.  Second and side couples repeat in succession.

5th Figure.—­First couple promenade round inside the quadrille.  Four ladies advance, courtesy to each other, and retire; four gentlemen advance, bow, and retire. Balancez and turn partners.  Grand chain half way round.  All promenade to places, and turn partners.  All chassez croisez, ladies right, gentlemen left (behind their partners), and back again to places.  Second and side couples repeat as before.  Promenade all round for finale.

* * * * *

VI.—­THE LANCERS.

The Lancers Quadrille is perhaps the most graceful and animated of any.  Within the last few years it has become a great favourite in fashionable circles, probably owing to its revival at the state balls of Her Majesty.  It admits of much skill and elegance in executing its quick and varied figures, a correct acquaintance with which is absolutely requisite to all who take part in it.  Unlike the common quadrille, the Lancers must be danced by four couples only in each set; though of course there can be many sets dancing at the same time.  The number being so limited, one awkward or ignorant person confuses the whole set; therefore, it is indispensable that every one who dances in this quadrille should have a thorough mastery of its graceful intricacies.  We have observed that of late it has become the fashion to substitute new tunes for the old well-known music of the Lancers Quadrille.  We cannot consider this an improvement.  The old simple melodies are peculiarly fitted to the sprightly, joyous character of the dance; which is more than can be said for any of the modern substitutes.  When these are used, the Lancers, in our opinion, loses its individuality and spirit, becoming almost like a common quadrille.  We should be heartily glad to see the old tunes restored once for all to their rightful supremacy.

The sets of four couples, top, opposite and sides, having been arranged, the dance begins as follows:—­1st Figure.—­First lady and opposite gentleman advance and retreat; advance again, joining their hands; pass round each other and back to places. (1st eight bars.) Top couple join hands, and cross, opposite couple crossing at the same time, separately, outside them; the same reversed, back to places. (2nd eight bars.) All the couples balancez to corners; each gentleman turns his neighbour’s partner back to places. (3rd eight bars.) Second couple repeat figure from beginning; after them side couples, those who stand to the right of top couple having always the priority, as in the common quadrille.