18 DECEMBER 1953, Page 17

A GIFT FOR PEDANTS

SIR,-At this time of year there arises a deli- cate point of etiquette which troubles this and, I am sure, many others of your readers. Half the world sends its Christmas cards from " John and Mary Doe " and the other half from " Mary and John Doe." Which is correct ? Should the senior partner assert his formal status (whatever the reality may be), or should chivalry prevail ? Will some arbiter morum please give guidance ? —yours anxiously,

114 Banbury Road, Oxford

C. K. ALLEN