But the tea at the Black-smith House, unlike that served at the Four Seasons and the Ritz, is bagged--so it picks up the smell of its packaging and goes stale quickly.

Also, the Blacksmith House lacks the plush ambience of the Ritz and the Four Seasons. But some might actually prefer its homey New England atmosphere.

Afternoon teas are also served right here at Harvard. Adams House has an elegant tea every Friday in the Masters' house at 4:30 p.m.; Lowell house has a Masters' tea on Thursdays at 5 p.m. and the Signet society hosts Friday teas at 5:30 p.m. (It's a good idea to arrive with a Lowell or Adams resident, or a Signet Society member).

But if you prefer the privacy of your common room, organizing your own afternoon tea is easy and affordable.

The Coffee Connection (36 JFK Street) is a nearby and inexpensive source of loose tea.

To make the tea, put one teaspoonful of tea in the pot for every cup of tea you want to make. Next, pour cold water from the tap (it's fresher than hot water) into a kettle and bring the water to a vigorous boil. Otherwise, the water won't be hot enough to release the full flavor of the tea.

Pour the heated water onto the leaves. The tea should be ready for serving in about five minutes. Use a strainer to keep the leaves in the pot.

Sugar and milk are nice additions to your tea. But avoid cream--its strong flavor overpowers the tea.

Scones and pastries for your tea can be purchased at the Blacksmith House.