Cut sugar is served with coffee, and powdered sugar with fruit or oatmeal.
Coffee may be served at the table or in the drawing-room as is best liked. People are not asked if they will have it; it is served to them. Only sugar is offered with black coffee.
HABITS AT TABLE.
Nothing indicates the good breeding of a man so much as his manners at table. There are a thousand little points to be observed, which, although not absolutely necessary, distinctly stamp the refined and well-bred man. A man may pass muster by dressing well, and may sustain himself tolerably in conversation; but, if he is not nearly perfect in table etiquette, dining will betray him.
Any unpleasant peculiarity, abruptness, or coarseness of manner is especially offensive at table. People are more easily disgusted at that time than at any other.
One should never rest the arms upon the table, but keep the left hand, when not in use, lying quietly in the lap.
A man guest should never precede his hostess into or out of the dining-room, but should wait respectfully by the door for her to pass.
A soup-plate should never be tilted for the last spoonful.
The mouth should be kept closed in eating, and as little noise made as possible.
A goblet should be held by the stem, and not by the bowl.