Good manners are the settled medium of social, as specie is of commercial, life; returns are equally expected for both.

Two people cannot be alone together for upwards of half an hour without one emerging as the superior.

The world can doubtless never be well known by theory: practice is absolutely necessary; but surely it is of great use to a young man, before he sets out for that country, full of mazes, windings, and turnings, to have at least a general map of it, made by some experienced traveler.

Elegance of manner is the outgrowth of refined and exalted sense.

Either a good or a bad reputation outruns and gets before people wherever they go.

Prepare yourself for the world, as athletes used to do for their exercises; oil your mind and your manners, to give them the necessary suppleness and flexibility; strength alone will not do.

Gratitude is a burden upon our imperfect nature.