“Society” is an ambiguous term; it may mean much or nothing. Every human being—unless dwelling alone in a cave—is a member of society of one sort or another, and therefore it is well to define what is to be understood by the term “Best Society” and why its authority is recognized. Best Society abroad is always the oldest aristocracy; composed not so much of persons of title, which may be new, as of those families and communities which have for the longest period of time known highest cultivation.

[Chapter 1, 1940 ed.]
One is apt to think of Etiquette as being of no more real service to the average citizen than a top hat -- something that is of importance to none but brides or diplomats or the newly-rich or persons lately elected to political office.