UniBrow

Rule No. 44:

When a man does all he can though it succeeds not well blame not him that did it.

Rule No. 43:

Do not express joy before one sick or in pain, for that contrary passion will aggravate his misery.

Rule No. 42:

Let thy ceremonies in courtesy be proper to the dignity of his place with who thou converse, for it is absurd to act the same with a clown and a prince.

Rule No. 41:

Undertake not to teach your equal in the art he himself professes, it savours of arrogance.

Rule No. 40:

Strive not with your superiors in argument, but always submit your judgment to others with modesty.

Rule No. 39:

In writing or speaking, give every person his due title according to his degree & the custom of the place.

Rule No. 38:

In visiting the sick, do not presently play the physician if you be not knowing therein.

Rule No. 37:

In speaking to men of quality, do not lean nor look them full in the face, nor approach too near them, at least keep a full pace from them.

Rule No. 36:

Artificers & persons of low degree ought not to use many ceremonies to Lords or others of high degree, but respect and highly honor them; and those of high degree ought to treat them with affability & courtesy, without arrogance.

Program note: I have let a couple of important strands lie untouched for some time now, namely the Federalist Papers commentary, which will resume very soon, and Washington’s rules of civility, which reappear right now with Rule No. 35:

Let your discourse with men of business be short and comprehensive.