101 Quotes by Emily Post

One thing is certain, no novice should ever begin her social career by attempting a formal dinner, any more than a pupil swimmer, upon being able to take three strokes alone, should attempt to swim three miles out to sea.

The eleventh commandment, “Thou shalt not be found out” is despicable, but nevertheless, it is the one thing you can never get away from.

Who does not dislike a “boneless” hand extended as though it were a spray of sea-weed, or a miniature boiled pudding?

Manner is personality – the outward manifestation of one’s innate character and attitude toward life.

Thus Best Society is not a fellowship of the wealthy, nor does it seek to exclude those who are not of exalted birth; but it is an association of gentle-folk, of which good form in speech, charm of manner, knowledge of the social amenities, and instinctive consideration for the feelings of others, are the credentials by which society the world over recognizes its chosen members.

To the old saying that man built the house but woman made of it a ‘home’ might be added the modern supplement that woman accepted cooking as a chore but man has made of it a recreation.

Courtesy demands that you, when you are a guest, shall show neither annoyance nor disappointment – no matter what happens.

Alas! it is true: “Be polite to bores and so shall you have bores always round about you.”

Never take more than your share – whether of the road in driving your car, of chairs on a boat or seats on a train, or food at the table.