Little Problems Of Etiquette

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22777, 10 July 1937, Page 6 (Supplement)

Little Problems Of Etiquette

Making Introductions "PEOPLE are often in doubt as to the correct procedure when making introductions, but the rule is quite simple. A man is always introduced to a woman, never the reverse, the method being thus: "Mr. Brown —Miss Green." In the case where the sexes are the same, the younger is introduced to the older, thus: "Miss Sixteen —Mrs. Thirty-five." When making a call or arriving at a party or function, always pay your respects to your host and hostess before greeting other friends and acquaintances who may be present. ]f you are holding a formal dinner, there arc a few points to remember. The host should lead the way, offering his right arm to the most important lady guest., and the hostess comes into the dining room last with the principal man. The host and hostess must indicate how the others will partner and sit, according to what they consider most suitable. The most important woman and man sit on the right hand of the host and hostess respectively.

Table manners appeal- to be complicated, but usually there is something underlying them to make eating, never a beautiful procedure, a little easier and more pleasing to the eye. Do not pin your serviette to your dress or coat, for this suggests that you are unable to eat without dropping fragments of food. It is not a breach of etiquette to begin eating before all others have been served. Modern manners encourage it, though it does not seem as courteous as waiting. Your knives, forks and spoons will be used in order, beginning from the outside and working in. For the sweets, a fork alone may be used, but never a spoon alone. The stones from fruit should be conveyed back to the plate .with the spoon.