FOREWORD
It is undeniable that much of the pleasure in modern life is derived from social intercourse.
From time immemorial the gregarious instinct has contributed greatly to the charm of all populated regions. It is worthy of remark that, during the past decade, both in America and in England, sudden and violent changes have somewhat ruffled the placid waters of polite society. These new conditions of life have naturally necessitated new methods of social procedure. The telephone, coeducation, wireless telegraphy, motor cars, millionaires, bridge whist, women’s rights, Sherry’s, cocktails, four-day liners, pianolas, steam heat,directoiregowns, dirigible balloons,and talking machines have all contributed to an astonishing social metamorphosis.
Curiously enough no book of etiquette has taken count of these violent changes. There is literally no Baedeker for this newly discovered country. Many fruitful and enchanted islands have been sighted, but have, alas, remained uncharted.
It is, therefore, with motives of generosity, charity, and kindness that this little guide has been prepared by the benevolent author.
It will be found to contain concise rules of deportment for all the more important social ceremonies—from atête-à-têteto a betrothal, a picnic to a funeral, apartie-carréeto a divorce, an ushers’ dinner to a Turkish bath, and a piano recital to a rout. It also contains excellent advice on the choice of a motor car, a summer residence, a wife, or a brand of cigar.
The author feels that it should prove of great value to those people who have beenborn and brought up in refined and well-bred families, and are, at the same time, desirous of entering fashionable society.
To our newer millionaires and plutocrats it should be a very present help in time of trouble, for it is undeniable that many of these captains of industry—however strong and virile their natures—become utterly helpless and panic-stricken at the mere sight of a gold finger bowl, an alabaster bath, a pronged oyster fork, or the business end of an asparagus.