Part VI

[4] TABLE MANNERS

A LIST OF DO’S AND DON’TS

· Never stretch over the table for something you want, ask your neighbour to pass it.

· Take a slice of bread from the bread-plate by hand, don’t harpoon your bread with a fork.

· Do not bite into the whole slice, break it off by piece.

· Never spoil your neighbour’s appetite by criticizing what he just happens to be eating or by telling stories which are not conducive to good digestion.

· Chicken requires special handling. First cut as much as you can, and when you can’t use knife and fork any longer, use your fingers.

· Never read while eating (at least in company).

· When a dish is placed before you, do not eye it suspiciously as though it were the first time you had seen it, and do not give the impression that you are about to sniff it. No matter how surprised you are take it all in your stride.

· Do not use a knife for fish, cutlets or omelettes.

· When you are being served, don’t pick. One piece is as good as the next.

· The customary way to refuse a dish is by saying, “No, thank you” (or to accept, “Yes, please”). Don’t say “I don’t eat that stuff”, don’t make faces or noises to show that you don’t like it.

· In between courses, don’t make bread-balls to while the time away and do not play with the silver.

· Don’t lick your spoon. If you really feel that way ask for a second helping.

· Sit facing the table, don’t sit sideways. Keep your feet under you, don’t stretch them all the way under the table.

· After stirring your tea remove the spoon, and place it on the saucer.

· Don’t use the spoon for what can be eaten with a fork. The forks are placed at the side of the dish in order which they are to be used (salad fork, fish fork, meat fork, etc.).

· When eating stewed fruit use your spoon to put the stones on your saucer.

· If there is a napkin on the table, unfold it and spread it on your lap. Don’t tie it around your neck. Use your napkin often and skillfully. Several pats on the lips will take the grease off. Don’t use your napkin as though it were blotting paper.

· Don’t eat off the knife.

· Vegetables, potatoes, macaroni are placed on your fork with the help of your knife.

· Cut your meat into small pieces that can be chewed with ease. Cut off one piece at a time.

· If your food is too hot, don’t blow on it as though you were trying to start a campfire on damp night.

· Your spoon, knife and fork are meant to eat with, they are not drumsticks and should not be banged against your plate.

· Try to make as little noise as possible when eating.

· Don’t sip your soup as though you wanted the whole house to hear.

· Don’t shovel food into your mouth. Take small pieces.

· Don’t talk with your mouth full. First chew and then swallow.

· Don’t put your elbows on the table.

· Don’t pick your teeth in company after the meal even if tooth-picks are provided for the purpose.

· And, finally don’t forget to say “Thank you” for every favour or kindness.