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Think times have changed? Check this out.

• Always introduce people to your mother. No matter how important the other person is, begin: “Mother, I’d like you to know…”

• When your parents introduce you to their friends, make them proud. Stand up for an introduction, and acknowledge it with the friend’s name: “How do you do, Mrs. Carter.” Don’t sit down, while either your mother or Mrs. Carter is still standing.

• If your parents’ friends ask questions, even though they seem a little foolish, answer. Never say, “I dunno,” or just giggle. Admittedly, “You’ve grown so, haven’t you?” is silly, but it becomes sensible conversation if you answer, “Yes, I’m nearly two inches taller than I was last year.”

• If your dad tells a story involving you and gets some of the facts wrong, let it go. Setting him straight in front of an audience just sounds quarrelsome and childish.

• Let your mother precede you into a train or bus or down a theater aisle. In these places, walk ahead of your father.

• Treat your mother like a lady and your father like a gentleman, and you can’t help impressing the world with your own charm and poise.