Book excerpt: The Polite Society School of Étiquette presents Volume IV, The Art of Timeless Étiquette, Graceful Dining Manners, & Afternoon Tea, featuring Social Graces, Étiquette History, Introduction Methods, Entertaining Guidelines, Correspondence Protocol, History of Tableware, Dining Out Manners, American and Continental Dining, Appropriate Dress Attire, History of Tea, Types of Tea, Tea Pairings and Tastings, Tea Food Dining Instructions, and Formalities for Preparing a "Proper" Afternoon Tea. This latest volume is an updated compilation of Volume I and Volume II with additional étiquette guidelines and instructions. The Art of Timeless Étiquette, Graceful Dining Manners, & Afternoon Tea offers practical knowledge in basic social skills for all occasions and settings and includes useful information and advice to enhance one's lifestyle in the social and business world. It takes the reader through a brief history of étiquette, offers introduction methods and conversation techniques, provides guidelines for entertaining, presents illustrations for formal, informal, and family style table settings, and explains the difference between Continental and American style dining. It also provides instructions on the proper way to consume soups, beverages, tea, coffee, and various difficult foods.With beautiful photographs, exquisite china, gleaming silver, and stunning floral bouquets, The Art of Timeless Étiquette, Graceful Dining Manners, & Afternoon Tea delights the senses with elegant and picturesque table settings, antique teacups, and beautiful linens.In the chapters dedicated to Afternoon Tea, detailed information is provided on the history of tea, styles of tea, types of tea, tea pairings with fruits and savories, and tea tasting characteristics. Instructions are provided on making the perfect pot of tea for this charming custom as it became the forefront of high society. Detailed guidelines are presented on how to set a proper tea table and how to set up a tea style buffet along with instructions on dining with savories, scones, and petits fours. This newest volume illustrates various methods for conducting oneself gracefully in his or her professional life keeping in mind the importance of first impressions. The chapter on virtues contains important information on self-discipline, friendship, courage, and other aspects for living a good life. As an added bonus, The Art of Timeless Étiquette, Graceful Dining Manners, & Afternoon Tea contains chapters on the history, usage, and care of all tableware that includes flatware, dinnerware, stemware, and crystal. Credit is given to Richard Osterberg's book, Sterling Silver Flatware (Published in 1994 by Schiffer Publishing Ltd.) for much of this information. Mr. Osterberg's continuing and passionate interest in antiques and silver began during his Vermont childhood. He was introduced to a goldsmith and silversmith from Scotland and over time developed an interest in English, Scottish, and American silver which resulted in several publications. Credit is given to William Hanson who is the leading étiquette coach and social commentator in the United Kingdom. His life's work is and continues to be the training of royalty, government officials, diplomats, and VIPs who wish to integrate good manners into the global forum. Mr. Hanson's expert advice is absolutely priceless.Whether one is a homemaker, business professional, or student, The Art of Timeless Étiquette, Graceful Dining Manners, & Afternoon Tea will empower every reader with confidence as he or she learns life-changing essential manners and practical skills while exploring the world of étiquette.