In preparing a book of etiquette for ladies, I would lay down as the first rule, "Do unto others as you would others should do to you." You can never be rude if you bear the rule always in mind, for what lady likes to be treated rudely? True Christian politeness will always be the result of an unselfish regard for the feelings of others, and though you may err in the ceremonious points of etiquette, you will never be impolite. 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.

“[A] compendium of socially acceptable responses to every conceivable opportunity for personal embarrassment or inadvertent insult.” —Publishers Weekly Read by millions since the first edition was published in 1922, Emily Post—the most trusted name in etiquette—has always been there to help people navigate every conceivable social situation. The tradition continues with this 100 percent revised and updated edition, in which Peggy Post covers the formal, the traditional, the contemporary, and the casual. Based on thousands of reader questions and surveys, the book shows how to handle the new, difficult, unusual, and everyday situations we encounter. The definition of etiquette—a code of behavior based on thoughtfulness—has not changed since Emily’s day. The etiquette guidelines we use to smooth the way change all the time. This new edition resolves hundreds of our key etiquette concerns: dealing with rudeness, netiquette, noxious neighbors, road rage, family harmony, online dating, cell phone courtesy, raising respectful children and teens, and travel etiquette in the post-9/11 world . . . to name just a few. Emily Post's Etiquette, 17th Edition also remains the definitive source for timeless advice on entertaining, social protocol, table manners, guidelines for religious ceremonies, expressing condolences, introductions, how to be a good houseguest and host, invitations, correspondence, planning a wedding, giving a toast, and sportsmanship. Peggy Post's advice gives us the confidence of knowing we're doing the right thing so we can relax and enjoy the moment—and move more easily through our world.