It is very vulgar to talk in a loud tone, and indulge in horse-laughs. Be very careful in speaking of subjects upon which you are not acquainted. Much is to be learned by confessing your ignorance—nothing can be by pretending to knowledge which you do not possess.
Never tell long stories. Avoid all common slang phrases and pet words.
Of all things, don’t attempt to be too fine. Use good honest English—and common words for common things. If you speak of breeches, shirts, or petticoats, call them by their right names. The vulgarity is in avoiding them.
Be not partial to theorizing, or your conversation will assume the style of speech-making, which is intolerable.
[CHEERFULNESS TAUGHT BY REASON.]
By ELIZABETH BARRETT BROWNING.
I think we are too ready with complaint