In the 1700’s walking sticks were all the rage in England. Everyone wanted one it seemed. The government, of course became quite worried. So there was a law passed that in order to stroll with the aid of a cane one had to purchase a license and abide by a strict set of rules.

It seemed that one of the rules prohibited the person with the stick from gesturing with or waving the stick in the air. He also could not hang the cane from his waistcoat, nor tuck it under his arm.

Gentlemen, being the gentle men that they were, seldom disregarded any of these rules. Thus there was never a cane mutiny.

Couldn’t you just picture young George Washington writing down these rules while he was learning proper writing techniques? As you know by now, at least if you have been reviewing this Facebook posting for any amount of time, George Washington was taught penmanship by his tutor, who read from his list of 110 Rules of Civility and Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation. George had to write each one to perfection.

In reviewing these Rules, I couldn’t find one that required one “not to hang your cane on your coat nor tuck it under your arm.” Or “Do not gesture or wave your walking stick as if it were a weapon.” Or anything like that.

The closest they came were: “Every Action done in Company, ought to be with Some Sign of Respect, to those that are present.” Or perhaps: “The Gestures of the Body must be Suited to the discourse you are upon.”

Anyway the 110 Rules of Civility and Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation
are interesting for reading and perusal by those who appreciate manners and decorum among the citizens.

By the way a book containing all the rules, with some commentary, can be obtained from The Mount Vernon Ladies Association, Mount Vernon, Virginia, if you are interested.