Expected Edwardian Etiquette

You didn’t know? To make yourself the hero of your own story, or to speak much of your own performances, denotes deep-seated self-conceit, and may be very distasteful to others, who also have achieved!

1. In a company of people, it is the height of rudeness to call attention to the form or features or dress of any one present.
2. In using a handkerchief, always do so unobtrusively. At the dining table it should be used very sparingly.
3. Better retire than be obnoxious to even the most fastidious.
4. Never look over the shoulder of any one who is reading or writing, whether in the home, or in a car, or at a concert, or anywhere else.
5. Do not touch anyone in order to arrest his attention, but address him.
6. To lend a borrowed article is an appropriation of it which is next to stealing, unless one has permission of the owner to do so.
7. Self-control in excitement of any sort is a most valuable trait. It always makes for comfort of one's self and of others, and often for safety.
8. Do not pass between two persons who are talking together, if avoidable. If it is not, then apologize.
9. Never refuse to receive an apology. Courtesy requires, no matter how unforgivable the offense, that an apology should be accepted. Friendship may not be restored, but friendly courtesy should always thereafter be maintained.
10. Never neglect to perform a commission which a friend intrusted to you. Forgetfulness denotes lack of regard for the friend.
11. Never fail to be punctual at the time appointed, in keeping every engagement.
12. To make yourself the hero of your own story, or to speak much of your own performances, denotes deep-seated self-conceit, and may be very distasteful to others, who also have achieved. – Edith Ordway 

Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia