he dinner table to talk of business problems. That occasion has its
own etiquette, and one which the business man or woman readily
fashions for himself or herself, and which follows the rules of
business expediency rather than social life.
It is not necessary to recognize in society a strictly business
acquaintance unless you wish to do so.
Neatness demands that the traveler always carry his own toilet
articles, and not depend upon the public supplies, which are,
however, supposedly safe and sanitary for use in emergencies.
The dress for traveling should be plain and simple, suited to the need
rather than elaborate. The effect of crumpled finery is so very
unpleasant that no person of taste will make a display of it in a
public conveyance.
If you wish to leave your seat in a train, a coat or bag placed upon
it is sufficient to reserve it for you. The removal of a coat or bag
so placed is a very great rudeness.
A gentleman will give up his seat to two ladies, or to a gentleman and
lady traveling together, as he can be more readily accommodated in the
single seats than can they.
It is courteous for a gentleman who has a vacant place in the seat
with him to offer it to a lady who is standing, and so prevent her
from feeling that she is intruding in taking it, if there are no other
seats vacant.
When a man opens a door for a woman who is a stranger, or offers her
any other civility, or begs pardon for some blunder, he takes off his
hat to her.
While traveling alone, it is not necessary or wise to be resentful of
polite remarks or attentions. They should be met with equal
politeness. Quiet dignity and tact will terminate without offense any
conversation which has grown too familiar or tedious.
The comfort of all in the car, not of one individual, should be
consulted in the opening of windows and doors, and the consent of
those sitting near should be gained.
It is a grave breach of good manners to monopolize a dressing-room for
quite a period of time. One should be as expeditious as possible, and
should not seriously inconvenience others, even if he deprives himself
of some of the comfort he desires.
It is not well to travel unless you can afford it. If you can and do
travel, deal courteously and generously with those who serve you.
Ask questions only of officials of the road or the ship, or of
policemen in the street.
The exchange of visiting cards with strangers, unless under unusual
circumsta
|