[Illustration]
Club life in all large cities is becoming so important a factor of
social life that no book on etiquette would be complete without some
notice of its varied features.
The membership of the smaller social clubs is chosen solely for the
purpose of social enjoyment, and they frequently blackball names that
are brought up for membership simply from the standpoint of some
member to whom the one proposed may not be personally agreeable. If an
applicant is blackballed once, his friends should not persist in
introducing his name again.
In the larger clubs, where the members are never all thrown together
at any one time, no one should blackball a name from a personal
standpoint.
If any one, however, is aware of some blemish in the character of the
candidate for admission, he has good grounds for objection.
Observing the Rules.
A new member of a club should at once acquaint himself with the rules
and regulations that govern the organization and govern himself
accordingly. The courtesy that obtains in the home is to be observed
in the club-rooms.
Opinions of others should be respected, and exciting discussions, or
disturbing topics of conversation, are to be avoided there, as they
should be in the home circle. Remember that every one has the same
right to his preconceived opinions as you have to yours.
Treat all books, papers and other club property with due care. Never
take any article away from the club-house. Never monopolize any one
article to the exclusion of others.
When there are certain rooms appointed for smoking, confine yourself
to them when indulging in the weed. In the reading-room observe the
same respect for the readers that you would wish observed toward
yourself, only another rendering of the Golden Rule which is at the
foundation of all good manners. While there converse very little, and
that in a low tone of voice.
Do not look upon the servants of the club as your private property,
and never send them on personal errands without first obtaining the
consent of the manager. Never expect undue attention from the waiters.
Do not take dogs into club-rooms; they are liable to destroy
furniture, and everyone may not appreciate them as much as you do.
Morning dress is worn at the club. In the evening a dress suit may be
worn if desired, but morning costume is equally appropriate. Hats
should be removed at luncheon or dinner.
Gentlemen will refrain from much mentioning of the names of ladies
while in the club-rooms, or from indulging in scandal. Serious
ill-feeling is often aroused in this manner. Many men refuse to listen
to anything of the kind, and will retire if any such subject is
brought up.
Introduction of Friends.
Some clubs have cards for introducing visitors, as:
_VISITING CARD._
COLUMBIA CLUB, 420 Madison Square.