2
ave been garnered from the experiences of succeeding generations under common conditions.
To know them, to catch their spirit, and to follow them in an intelligent way, without slavish punctiliousness but with careful observance, make one skillful in the art of social intercourse, and at home in any society.
Etiquette will not take the place of character, nor of an accurate knowledge of human nature and the arts of practical life. Given these, however, it will unlock to any man or woman doors of success and profit and real happiness which, without it, would have remained forever closed.
E. B. O.
"We feel 'at home' wherever we know how to conduct ourselves."
T. L. NICHOLS
CHAPTER PAGE
I. The Rewards of Etiquette 1
II. Personality 6
III. Family Etiquette 20 Obligations of the Married 20 General Rules of Conduct 26 Table Etiquette 33 Anniversaries 40 The Giving of Presents 41 Intimate Friends 42 Illness in the Home 44 Courtesy to Servants 45
IV. Conversation and Correspondence 48 The Art of Conversation 48 Correspondence 52 Paper 55 Ink 58 Handwriting 58 Sealing, Stamping, and Directing of Envelopes 59 Salutation, Conclusion, and Signature of Letters 66 Letters of Introduction 70 Letters of Recommendation 73 Third-person Letters 74 Informal Invitations and Announcements 74 Letters of Condolence 75 Answering Letters 76
V. Casual Meetings and Calls 78 Greetings and Recognitions 78 Introductions 84 Calls 90 Social Calls of Men 92 First Calls 94
VI. The Personal Card and the Engraved Invitation 96 Form of Card 96 Inscription 97 Titles 100 Use 102 The Engraved Invitation 105 Dining and Party Invitations 108 Wedding Invitations and Announcements 114 Various Announcement Cards 119
VII. Behavior in Public 122
VIII. The Art of Being a Guest 137
IX. Duties of Host and Hostess 145 Breakfasts and Luncheons 148 The Formal Dinner 149 Visits 1