Nine times out of 10, the most charming thing to say in any given situation will be the exact opposite of what one really feels.

It's one of these things that I've been struck by for so long about America. You know, this amazing politeness of American life that's not at all class specific. It's not like people get more polite as ascend the hierarchy of society. Just incredible good manners. It's always been something that I've noticed.

Politeness is half good manners and half good lying.

Of all that gives politeness birth,Of all that claims to please,In motion, manners, or in mirth,The surest source is ease.

I remember manners, that's when people are scared to make other persons mad.

It is a wise thing to be polite; consequently, it is a stupid thing to be rude. To make enemies by unnecessary and willful incivility, is just as insane a proceeding as to set your house on fire. For politeness is like a counter--an avowedly false coin, with which it is foolish to be stingy.