s. We cannot disguise this fact -- it is seen by all who travel through the country, who frequent the city, who sail upon our rivers and our lakes, or whirl rapidly along our railways.The lower officials are often cross and surly -- the higher sometimes extremely discourteous; and the want of good-breeding is everywhere noted.Surely we should ask ourselves the question --"Whence has this condition of affairs arisen?"Our democratic principles should not be allowed to lead us to indulge in discourtesy, and thus throw a shadow of disgrace upon our institutions. And those who consider the rules which regulate society needless and absurd, would, if they were laid aside, soon desire their restoration, as they are a needful barrier against rudeness and vulgarity.There are, doubtless, many eccentricities of fashion, yet they soon pass away; but some prescribed regulations for conduct are essential for the preservation of order and dignity. Etiquette is intended to guard us from some of the inconveniences of a large acquaintance, and by settling certain points, it permits us to maintain a ceremonious acquaintance with a circle much too large for social visiting.Therefore let us: --"Study with care, politeness that must teachThe modest forms of gesture and of speech;In vain formality, with matron mien,And pertness apes with her familiar grin;They against nature for applauses strain,Distort themselves, and give all others pain."...
