BRITISH CONSERVATISM AND THE PRIMROSE LEAGUE ... - ideals

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selected from national themes of central concern to the Conservative
party: Home Rule, the British Empire, and other current political
issues.
More characteristic, however, were the evenings when social
entertainment reigned supreme.
Frequently these gatherings were dances
or varietal shows. The latter might include a varied program given by
selected members for the benefit of the entire Habitation. Patriotic
and humorous songs were sung, comic skits performed, passages read, and
musical instruments played. The contributions of members were
frequently supplemented by a semiprofessional band, acting troupe, or
ensemble group hired to perform.
During one of the intervals between performances the Ruling
Councillor or invited speaker addressed the audience on a topic of
political importance. Typically the speeches were confined to fairly
brisk presentations, no Habitation wishing to lose its broad base of
membership through an undue emphasis on political subjects.5 The
evenings generally concluded with a singing of the national anthem.
The highlight of the winter season was generally an elaborate ball
while summer festivities usually featured a fete held upon the estate
of a local notable.
While social
functions assumed undisputed primacy among the
activities sponsored by the Habitations, nevertheless, political
activities held an important place in the functions of the Primrose
5
An outlook shared by the local Conservative Associations.
See John A. Bridges, Reminiscences of A Country Politician (London: T.
Werner Laurie Clifford's Inn, 1906), p. 52.