veiled form of insult. Do not use deceit, especially in conversing
with a lady; also, avoid prevarication, as such is bad policy. Do not
boast, it is an absurd habit to fall into. Too many puns or jokes become
monotonous; jokes should not be told in reference to a person present,
unless the acquiescence of the party be first received.
2. Your grammar should be of the best, and your words selected with
great care. Large words should be used very seldom unless the topic of
conversation calls for them.
3. Laughter should never be forced; if you are not amused, merely
smile. When laughing at a small matter do so in a light, sincere way;
when amused by some good joke or occurrence, laugh heartily but not too
loudly; merely convey the fact that the joke or event is appreciated.
This rule should apply at all times when ladies are present.
4. Never flatter a lady, for it is the poorest substitution for a
sensible topic that was ever thought of in society. It is disliked by
ladies and gentlemen alike, and it shows insincerity in its every use. If
you desire to say something nice to a person, make use of more serious
expressions, commonly known as compliments, for, if you intend to
compliment and speak too sweetly, it is not such, but flattery, you are
making use of. Only compliment when a person deserves it, and do not do
so too often.
5. In society one should always be prepared for impromptu conversation,
or small talk, and should always have plenty of it in stock; that is, not
the whole substance of the expected conversation, but subjects upon which
you can converse at a moment’s notice. At receptions, teas, dinners,
dances, or any other entertainment, the topics should be select, and the
oral abilities prepared to discuss them in a free and familiar way. Such
topics might well be classed under the simple heads of Art of latest
Artists, Receptions, Teas, etc., and especially Latest Novels, then also
Plays and the criticisms, or Noted People of the Day. You will find any
one of these sufficient for short conversation. Literature and grave
subjects would prove too extensive. Try not to criticize people severely,
and do not speak on any subject which, after a few remarks, appears
uninteresting or distasteful to the person conversing with you. When a
subject has been once discussed and abandoned by all, it is bad taste to
return to it during that same conversation or in the same company.
[Illustration]
[Illustration]
CORRESPONDENCE AND INVITATIONS