This tradition was introduced in England by Anna,the Duchess of Bedford,in 1840.The Duchess became hungry around four o'clock in the afternoon.So,she asked her servants to bring a tray of tea, bread,butter and cake to her room during the late afternoon.This became a her habit and she began inviting friends to join her.Soon,tea was served in the drawing room between four and five o'clock. It was a chance for women to exchange gossip and be introduced to new acquaintances.
