It is not good form to talk of the cost of articles or mention money affairs in company.
The social aspirant should cultivate the art of saying polite nothings acceptably. Small talk is the small change of social life.
One should be prompt at dinner, a card-party or a musicale.
At a dancing-party the hostess does not dance, as a rule, during the first part of the evening. She receives her guests and sees that the women are provided with partners.
A man who dances should pay his hostess the courtesy of inviting her to dance. He should certainly dance with her daughter.
Engaged couples should be careful to avoid demonstrations of affection or preoccupation in each other while in company.
Remember—
That the salt-shaker is out of favor; the open salt cellar and the salt-spoon are much preferred.
Never cut bread; break it with the fingers. Never butter a large piece, or spread it in the palm of your hand.
The finger-bowl will be brought on a plate with a doily under it.