It is this patient forbearance with the eccentricities of all, which stamps the true lady or gentleman. It is a duty which each one owes to himself, to acquire certain rules for guidance, which shall make him a welcome guest in any circle. Etiquette is not a servile yielding up of one's individuality, or cold formality. It is rather the beautiful frame which is placed around a valuable picture to prevent its being marred or defaced. Etiquette throws a protection around the well-bred, keeping the coarse and disagreeable at a distance, and punishing those who violate her dictates, with banishment from the social circle.
Manners are obligatory upon a man, and even more than that upon a woman.
A man who is gentle, defers to others, listens respectfully to the aged, or to those who are inferior to him in position or intelligence, is liked by every one. His presence is a protection to women, his conversation is a wealth of pleasure, and all feel bettered by sharing his society. He acts kindly from the impulse of a kind heart. He is brave because with a conscience void of offense, he has nothing to fear. He is never embarrassed, for he respects himself and is profoundly conscious of right intentions.