Several years ago, I picked up an etiquette book from the 1920s at a garage sale. I’ve rifled through it every now and then, but haven’t really read it–at least, not until just recently.
What I’ve found has been most entertaining.
Some things stay the same, other things change.
In a chapter on dinner parties, the author suggests the following as an acceptable way of taking leave:
“Good-night, Mrs. Carr. I must thank you for a perfectly delightful evening.”
To which the hostess may reply:
“We were glad to have you, I’m sure, Mrs. Roberts.”
Perfectly polite in the ’20s. Ridiculously snarky in the next millennium.
Just read the sarcasm: “I must thank your for a perfectly delightful evening.” “We were glad to have you, I’m sure.”
Ah, the differences between then and now.
I must thank you for making me smile. :)