SECRETS “If you would wish another to keep your secret, first keep it yourself.” — Seneca, circa A.D. 60 In general . . . one of the surest signs of social maturity is the ability to keep confidential matters to one’s self, remembering Jean Paul Richter’s warning, “Whoever lets go the smallest part of a …

The whole matter of apologies is confused by . . . popular but essentially senseless maxims. . . . the sweeping “Never apologize and never explain,” is an absurd policy for anyone to follow — unless it be the person with the unfortunate habit of apologizing constantly for everything . . . In essence, he …

BORROWING A borrower is obligated to return an article promptly in as good condition as he found it, or to replace it if it is lost or damaged. Unless fully prepared to take this responsibility, it is better not to borrow. Under very few circumstances should a borrowed article be passed along on loan to …

Rules in General Suit the length of a story to the occasion. Don’t launch into a long one if a series of interruptions is inevitable . . . Don’t make a group a captive audience by repeating a story from the beginning for the benefit of one newcomer or by telling a long tale that …