The hallmark of excellent breeding, according to a French writer, is the salute. It should be courteous, friendly, civil, loving, or familiar, depending on the situation: a head tilt, a hand gesture, or the touching or donning of a hat.
Unless you want to be extremely respectful, like when you salute a bishop, you don't have to bend your dorsal vertebrae at the same time that you take off your hat.
You should return the favor if someone of the lowest position—or no rank at all—takes off his hat for you. La Fontaine defines a bow as a note drawn at sight. You have to pay the entire sum if you accept it. Charles the Second and George the Fourth, England's two most aristocratic men, were always willing to remove their hats from the cruelest of their subjects.
If you have something to say to someone on the street, no matter how personal, don't stop them; instead, turn around and walk beside them. You can take a break at the end of the street.
If you have a disagreement with someone you know, don't avoid looking at them unless the nature of the argument requires it to be permanent. In most cases, it is preferable to bow politely but without saying anything.
The basis of good breeding are convenience and good sense, and it is unquestionably far more logical and desirable to have a fleeting sense of satisfaction when no subsequent evil is to be discovered than to be made uncomfortable by an unfounded pride. Therefore, it is preferable to have a casual and polite chat. An opening could be a snuff box or any other courteous accommodation. Just discuss the play, the roads, the weather, and generalities. Avoid discussing people or politics since you will be involved in a dispute if the other person belongs to the opposing party. If he shares your views, you will be inundated with a barrage of vulgar knowledge that could contaminate your mind. During the duration of the colloquium, maintain a quiet demeanor and allow the acquaintance to end with the event.
