This book gives an insight into expected etiquette regarding topics such as manners, clothing, conversation, managing servants, and traveling for women. Written during the reign of Queen Victoria, this work will transport the readers back to get a glimpse of the customs prevalent during the mid-1800s.

Eliza Leslie's 1854 work is designed as a sequel to her earlier book, Directions for Cookery. This volume contains a large number of southern recipes, many taken from African-American women, as well as recipes coming from French and Indian sources.