Paul T. Gilbert, the Key to Culture

"In calling on a new acquaintance, the lady making the call will give the servant two cards—that of her husband as well as her own. In the event the lady upon whom the call is made answers the bell and ushers the one calling into her home, the two cards are left unobtrusively on a table or some other piece of furniture where they are likely to be easily found..."

The Key to Culture, a book on popular culture and etiquette published in 1921, was developed from Paul T. Gilbert's regular newspaper columns. In addition to the usual (or often unusual) information about introductions, calling cards, dinner invitations, table manners, weddings and receptions, balls and dances, dress, conversation and beauty secrets—the book includes superstitions and omens, lucky and unlucky days, dreams and their meaning, spells and charms, telling fortunes, and even how to read character by the shape of the head. Also there are suggestions on courtship and how to write love letters, with samples given, most of which would scare off anyone today.

From the foreward: "Webster's definition of culture is 'refinement.' As we of this generation view it, however, it covers or implies more than simply a knowledge of etiquette. It means the avoidance of all embarrassments due to lack of knowledge of the niceties of society, or as it is sometimes termed—social usage—it means the possession of poise, charm, or as is sometimes the expression used—a pleasing personality."

to read more, follow these links:

advice, gifts, driving
dreams and their meaning
beauty secrets
every day omens