2. To Acquaintances.
Dear Sir, Dear Madame, Dear Miss ⸺.
My dear Sir, My dear Madame, My dear Miss ⸺, imply a better acquaintance than Dear Sir, &c.
3. To Friends or Relatives.
Dear Friend, My dear Father, Dear Henry, &c.
4. To Business Firms or Corporate Bodies.
Sirs, Gentlemen, Ladies.
Salutations to Young Ladies.—Owing to the fact that we have no word corresponding to Sir that can be used in addressing young ladies, there is sometimes an uncertainty as to the proper salutation to be used. Although Madame may refer to a married or an unmarried lady, it is not an appropriate word with which to address a young lady. There are three forms that may be used:—
1. To a Stranger.