The Ladies' Book of Etiquette and Manual of Politeness

Politeness founded upon such a rule becomes the expression in graceful manner of social virtues. The spirit of politeness consists in a certain attention to forms and ceremonies which are meant both to please others and ourselves and to make others pleased with us; a still clearer definition may be given by saying that politeness is goodness of heart put into daily practice; there can be no true politeness without kindness purity singleness of heart and sensibility.Many believe that politeness is but a mask worn in the world to conceal bad passions and impulses and to make a show of possessing virtues not really existing in the heart; thus that politeness is merely hypocrisy and dissimulation. Do not believe this; be certain that those who profess such a doctrine are practising themselves the deceit they condemn so much. Such people scout politeness because to be truly a lady one must carry the principles into every circumstance of life into the family circle the most intimate friendship and never forget to extend the gentle courtesies of life to every one.