Betrothals in Holland

In certain parts of Holland when a young man thinks he loves a girl he asks her for a match to light his cigar at the door of the beloved one’s home. This is done to let the parents know that something is intended, and if the visit is repeated and the same thing occurs no doubt is left in the minds of the girl’s parents, and they immediately proceed to investigate the young man’s character and antecedents. When he calls a third time they are prepared to give him an answer. If his suit is looked upon favorably he is given a match. If refused, he produces his own match, lights his cigar and walks away. If a favorable answer is given he steps forward and joins hands with the girl. While the engagement is by no means a settled fact even at this important stage, it is stated as a truth that if, on the occasion of the young man’s third visit, his inamorata offers him a second cigar and he smokes it in the house the engagement is never canceled.