CHAPTER I 



ETIQUETTE 



By this term is meant that unwritten law of 

 custom which, from the primitive tribal savage to 

 the most finished diplomat, governs every action 

 that is taken in common with others, and in 

 which every beginner must be initiated, to avoid 

 mistakes that may heap ridicule upon himself, or 

 possibly bring him into friction with his com- 

 panions. Every trade, every profession, and 

 every sport and game is governed by it, thus 

 enabling a heterogeneous multitude to join in a 

 common pursuit in perfect harmony, if only the 

 unwritten rules are understood by all and care- 

 fully observed. It originates in the first place in 

 that courtesy which is innate in " Nature's 

 gentleman " as far as conduct is concerned, and 

 on this is grafted such customs as may serve to 

 assist the carrying out of a common object, or 

 the designing of and wearing a suitable dress ; 

 while the appropriate language to be employed is 

 usually both well adapted to express what is 

 meant, and at the same time a protection, since 

 the using of wrong terms points out the novice, 

 and grates on the ear of the initiated. As an 



