2. Women were supposed to be graceful. Something like
dancing looked effortless. She always had to appear elegant.
The man has to ask the lady to dance.
3. The utensils had to be very clean. The way the bread is
cut is also important. Even the salt had to look neat and
be made in a special way. The setting was also important.
You did not have any lights on and things are in the
shape of flowers. Also it was important for the carver of
meat to have sharp knives and a large serving dish.
4. When you are speaking to others do not speak of yourself.
Speak of them. Maybe how they look or their shoes.
Something to make them think they are important even if
they are very poor. Don’t use phrases with double meanings.
That is insulting.
5. If you are a man do not let the lady get anything
dropped if you are in the room. Never lose your
temper. Don’t cross a room anxiously. For a woman,
let the man take care of you in the room. If you are
going to a play let the man find a seat for you.
6. If you have been introduced to a lady and you meet
her in the street you both bow. If you stop to speak
to a friend and he is a stranger apologize to the
stranger. If you meet a lady acquaintance on the
street do not join her in a walk without her ok.
7. A lady should never remove her bonnet
even if asked politely. If your
acquaintance or friend is not at home
leave a card. It is very discourteous to
continue with needlework when visitors
are in the room. Visits should be made
within a week.
8. Try not to rush everywhere. If you find a seat that has a coat
or bag on it don’t remove it even for a lady. Never allow
consideration of personal comfort or convenience to
overcome your regards for other travelers. You may leave
your hat when helping a lady on a carriage in America, as
long as both hands may be needed. It is not polite in the
Continent.
9. When a gentleman bearing a letter and he leaves
his card you should call or send him a note as soon
as possible. A letter should be carefully worded
with as few words as possible about the individual.
