The Book of Good Manners; a Guide to Polite Usage for All Social Functions

A compact, alphabetically arranged handbook offers a clear, no‑frills reference for anyone who wishes to navigate the nuances of American social life with confidence. Designed like a dictionary, each entry delivers concise advice that can be consulted in a moment, whether you’re drafting a letter, responding to an invitation, or simply wondering how to address a title correctly. The tone is straightforward, aiming to remove guesswork and make polite interaction feel natural rather than intimidating.

The guide covers everything from the proper way to stamp an address and sign a correspondence to the specifics of afternoon dress, tea gatherings, and even the etiquette of making a courteous afternoon call. It explains the distinctions between titles for men and women, the appropriate salutations for strangers versus close acquaintances, and the dress codes for various daytime events. Readers will find practical, step‑by‑step instructions that turn complex social customs into easy, everyday habits.