Quotes about Etiquette

Never speak to an invalid from behind, nor from the door, nor from any distance from him, nor when he is doing anything. The official politeness of servants in these things is so grateful to invalids, that many prefer, without knowing why, having none but servants about them.

Being politically correct means saying what's polite rather than what's accurate. I like to be accurate.

I cannot call to mind a single instance where I have ever been irreverent, except toward the things which were sacred to other people.

There is one other reason for dressing well, namely that dogs respect it, and will not attack you in good clothes.

If you really want a true confrontation, you treat your opponent with respect.

I didn't vote for [President Bush]. But I've never said anything bad about the guy because I have respect for the office.

One of the things I was taught as a child, and which I taught my children also, is never to go to anyone's house without bringing something — never visit anyone without bringing them a gift.

I don't eat with beautiful women alone.

Manners require time, and nothing is more vulgar than haste.

And by the way, my dear,' he said, 'you might just mention to Mrs. Sutton that if she must read the morning paper before I come down, I should be obliged if she would fold it neatly afterwards.' 'What an old fuss-box you are, darling,' said his wife. Mr. Mummery sighed. He could not explain that it was somehow important that the morning paper should come to him fresh and prim, like a virgin. Women did not feel these things. (Suspicion)

How do you do?" "How do you do?" echoed Mr. Ingleby. They gazed at one another with the faint resentment of two cats at their first meeting. Mr. Hankin smiled kindly at them both.

If I walked into the kitchen without washing my hands as a kid, I'd hear a loud 'A-hem!' from my mother or grandmother. Now I count on other people to do the same.