Democratic Sentinel, Volume 6, Number 14, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 5 May 1882 — As to Napkin Etiquette. [ARTICLE]

As to Napkin Etiquette.

The napkin etiquette question has been discussed by several newspapers lately. It has been claimed that tho guest should leave his napkin in negligent crumple beside his plate. At hotels and public places he may do thus, though ’twere better otherwise, or do anything he pleases with the napkin, except put it in his pocket; but in a private house the guest will fold his napkin neatly by the side of his plate, if he wishes to show his appreciation of the hostess’ care and neatness in arranging the table. A writer in the modern Athens says it is vulgar to tuck the corner of a napkin under the chin, and calls men who practice it unweaned babies with bibs. Queen Elizabeth did not use napkins. She tore the meat from the roast with her fingers, and had a hand-tub behind her with an ewer of water in which she rinsed her fingers. Sainte Beure fell into disgrace at the Court of Napoleon 111. because he spread his napkin oyer two knees and cut his egg in the middle, while he should have used the napkin unfolded on one knee, break the end of the egg, the big end, and drained with the tip of the spoon. They cut his acquaintance after that. What would have been the result if be had drawn and spread on his knees his pocket handkerchief, as they do at modern picnios? “To the guillotine with him” would have been dessert for them and just desserts for him. —Providence Journal.