No polite person will indulge in loud or boisterous conduct on the street. Loud talk or laughter is very ill-mannered. Only a quiet demeanor is allowable, and one who indulges in any other is guilty of rudeness. A complaint often made against pupils is that they are inclined to be rude and selfish in not giving those whom they meet their due share of the walk in passing. Oftentimes boys in their play are so heedless as to jostle against those passing on the sidewalk. This is selfish and rude. If it happens accidentally, suitable apologies should be made.
Questions.—In what tone of voice should one speak in the street? What does loud laughter in the street indicate? What demeanor is allowable? What fault is found with the manners of pupils on the street? What are your own observations in the matter? What are your criticisms?
Suggestions for Further Instruction.
In going to a place of amusement or entertainment it is not polite to performers or audience to arrive late. Arrive in season, take your seat quietly, and remain quiet and attentive throughout the whole entertainment. If there is any delay before the entertainment begins, the time should not be spent in loud laughing or talking. Nothing should be done to attract attention. Eating candy, nuts, or anything else at a place of entertainment is not in good form.
Too much cannot be said against talking or whispering or moving about when an entertainment is in progress. It shows either a lack of knowledge as to what is proper, or a disregard of propriety. It is also a rudeness to the performers, and a great source of annoyance to those who wish to listen. If the entertainment does not prove interesting, it is still the part of a lady or gentleman to remain through it all and to give respectful attention. It is very impolite to leave the place before the entertainment is concluded, in order to avoid passing out with the crowd.
Loud and long continued applause is impolite. It is proper to show pleasure if the entertainment pleases, but it must be done without boisterousness.
Rapping on the floor with canes, stamping of feet, whistling, etc., are insults, and if continued should receive the attention of a policeman.
It is a sign of good breeding to be in church before the service begins. If unavoidably late, enter very quietly, between parts of the service. Never whisper or laugh in church. It is irreverent and ill-bred. Never look around when people enter. Never be guilty of rudeness or boisterousness in a church, whether on Sunday or other days. Always show a proper respect for the place.
In your own church be polite to strangers. If it seems to be your place to do so, show them to a seat. Let no peculiarity of dress or manner on the part of strangers keep you from showing them any civility in church. In attending a church not your own be respectful in your conduct. Do not show curiosity nor ridicule observances that may seem peculiar.