Afternoon tea conjures up feelings of elegance and gentility. It is, after all, synonymous with civility and blessed with the endearing quality of being just a touch highbrow. The customs and courtesies associated with this most civilized ceremony, however, are disquieting to the uninitiated. Fear of committing tea faux pas is on the upturn, as tea is now serving not only a social function, but a professional one as wellan alternative to the business lunch or dinner. This has created an unprecedented demand for learning the essentials of tea etiquette as executives meet in hotel lounges to discuss business over a cup of tea.