It shows a want of courtesy to consult your watch, either at home or abroad. If at home, it appears as though you were tired of your company, and wished them to be gone. If abroad, it appears as though the hours dragged heavily, and you were calculating how soon you would be released.
Do not touch or handle any of the ornaments in the house where you visit. They are intended to be admired, not handled by visitors.
Do not read in company. A gentleman or lady may, however, look over a book of engravings or a collection of photographs with propriety.
Every species of affectation should be avoided, as it is always detected, and exceedingly disagreeable.
WASHINGTON'S MAXIMS.
Mr. Sparks, in his biography of Washington, has given to the public a collection of Washington's directions as to personal conduct, which he called his "Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company." We give these rules entire, as the reader may be interested in learning the principles which governed the conduct of the "Father of his Country."
Every action in company ought to be with some sign of respect to those present.
In the presence of others sing not to yourself with a humming voice, nor drum with your fingers or feet.
Speak not when others speak, sit not when others stand, and walk not when others stop.
Turn not your back to others, especially in speaking; jog not the table or desk on which another reads or writes; lean not on anyone.