Emily Post's Etiquette [antikvár]

Part THE ART OF CONVERSATION Introductions, greetings, and farewells The words we say when we meet someone, whether or not we ever expect to see him again, can create an impression with far-reaching consequences. This also applies to our manner of leaving a new acquaintance. As a result, the forms used on such occasions are more important than their brevity and simplicity suggest. An automatic and easy familiarity with them leaves us free to turn our minds to the more complicated arts of conversation and listening. the unbreakable rules of introduction Although rules for introductions have become much less rigid in recent years, and there is considerable variation in the phrases used, certain forms must be followed. First, a younger person is presented to an older person. Second, a gentlemen is always presented to a lady, even though she is no older than eighteen. Third, no woman is ever presented to a man, unless he is: the President of the United States; the recognized head of another country; a member of a royal family; a cardinal or other church dignitary.