So much has been written on the subject of etiquette and dress, that it would seem almost impossible to say anything new. In the preparation therefore of this work the author has drawn largely from all the best available authorities on the subject, believing that the combined thoughts and observations of the best thinkers and writers, would be far more valuable than anything emanating from the pen of any one person.
No one however influential, or occupying a position however exalted, could presume to dictate rules for the conduct of others, and at the same time retain their esteem and friendship; for this reason the name of the author of this book is withheld. And yet, no one will question the necessity and utility of a work of this kind. Its object is not only to give the usages, of our best American society, to disregard which (though many of them seem—and are arbitrary) would subject the offender to the epithet of "ill bred," but to impart that information by which anyone maybe enabled to acquire gentlemanly ease, or graceful ladylike deportment, so that their presence will be sought for, and they will not only learn that great art of being thoroughly at home in all societies, but will have that rarer gift of making everyone around them feel easy, contented and happy.