06-06-2008, 09:03 AM
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#43 (permalink)
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The sky calls to us ...
Super Moderator
Location: CT
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Quote:
If a gentleman does not see an ashtray, he does not smoke -- and he does not ask if he may do so. If he must light up he steps outside.
A gentleman uses a coaster.
A gentleman feels free to use the hand towel in the powder room. He does not attempt to refold it. Otherwise, other guests will not know it has been used. (p.90)
When to take a gift
When a gentleman is invited to someone's home -- for dinner, a holiday party, or for an overnight visit -- he takes a gift ... If he is invited for a more extended stay -- a single night or longer -- a gentleman takes a more substantial gift, such as cloth cocktail napkins, an extra corkscrew, or a useful kitchen gadget.
A gentleman always presents his gift directly to his host or hostess. Even though he takes a gift a gentleman also sends a thank-you note at his first opportunity. (p. 91)
When to send a thank-you note
A gentleman always sends a think-you note ... The flowers say, "Thank you for inviting me." The note says, "Thank you, I had a good time." (p. 94)
Unless he is asked, a gentleman does not operate another person's sound system. Neither does he touch another person's CDs. (p. 95)
When to send flowers
A gentleman feels free to send flowers to mark almost any occasion, happy or sad ... They are the perfect means of thanking a host or hostess, and they may be sent either before or after the party. (p. 103)
In the morning, A gentleman always offers to get up and make the coffee. (p. 106)
How to be a houseguest
As a guest in a private home a gentleman treats his host's furniture and other belongings with the greatest care, even more carefully than if they were his own.
If there are servants and some special service is done for him, or if he stays any great length of time, he shows his gratitude by leaving a thank-you tip.
In every case, a gentleman attempts to fit into the household routine. He rises and retires according to the household schedule. He eats what is served and does not complain. He makes his bed in the morning, and he disposes of damp towels as he is instructed.
Most important, he sticks to his arrival and departure plans. When his visit is over, he checks his room to make sure he has packed all his belongings. He leaves nothing but pleasant memories behind. (p. 107)
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Bridges, John. How to be a Gentleman -- A contemporary Guide to Common Courtesy. 2. Nashville, TN: Rutledge Hill Press, 1998. |
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