On Etiquette

Etiquette to society is what apparel is to the individual. Without apparel men would go in shameful nudity which would surely lead to the corruption of morals; and without etiquette society would be in a pitiable state and the necessary intercourse between its members would be interfered with by needless offences and troubles. If society were a train, the etiquette would be the rails along which only the train could rumble forth; if society were a state coach, the etiquette would be the wheels and axis, on which only the coach could roll forward.(1) The lack of proprieties would make the most intimate friends turn to be the most decided enemies and the friendly or allied countries declare war against each other.(2) We can find many examples in the history of mankind. Therefore I advise you to stand on ceremony(3) before anyone else and to take pains (4) not to do anything against etiquette lest you give offences or make enemies.(5)

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