DETERIORATION OF MANNERS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXVI, 15 January 1936, Page 8

DETERIORATION OF MANNERS

(To the Editor) Sir, —The Pi'incipal of the Girls’ College—Miss Stewart —in her able and interesting address, referred to the deterioration of manners to which “Observer” lately drew attention. “Good manners sweeten life,” and not only should educated people remember this, but it should be impressed upon the youth of our country. Behaviour to and respect for women folk is not what it used to be 20 or 30 years ago. Modern smoking manners has something to do with this and the common use of tobacco is obviously becoming harmful to manners and health of young and old, and this is not realised by them. Ladies used to object to men smoking in their company —in fact a gentleman would not do it, nor smoke in a drawing-room. This should not be done. It is not a clean habit. Why are young men and women allowing tlieir manners to deteriorate and themselves to be led away by this habit? What good does it do them? Young ladies’ charms disappear when cigarettes enter their mouths and their senses are degraded and they lower themselves in the esteem of others. Cut out the siliy habit and check male friends from a wasteful and useless habit! It is unfortunate they have the example of some of the clergy and men in high positions who should be an example of manners to young people. The excuse often made is that it is only a mild vice. If only this, why encourage it? But evidently it is harmful and injurious to efficiency and is noticed by Hitler, who wisely discourages the habit amongst officers of the German army, and also prohibits the use of strong drink. Wake up Britishers ! and do not lag behind in thfe means of becoming efficient. When the great war broke out 75 per cent, of the French were rejected on account of smokers’ heart. Should not this be a warning? In conclusion, it may not be generally known that the sale to and the use of tobacco, cigars, or cigarettes to youths under the age of 15 is made an offence under section 27 of the Police Offences Act, 1927, for which penalties are provided. Is it eot time serious steps were taken to discourage the use of tobacco? —I am, etc., • ANOTHER. OBSERVER. Nelson, 14th January.