CLICHÉS BRITÂNICOS

Chesterfield & L. Bacall

“…There is a sort of veteran women of condition, who hav­ing lived always in the grand monde, and having possibly had some gallantries, together with the experience of five-and-twenty, or thirty years, form a young fellow better than all the rules that can be given him. These women, being past their bloom, are extremely flattered by the least attention from a young fellow; and they will point out to him those manners and attentions that pleased and en­gaged them, when they were in the pride of their youth and beauty. Wherever you go, make some of those women your friends; which a very little matter will do. Ask their advice, tell them your doubts or difficulties as to your behaviour; but take great care not to drop one word of their experience; for experience implies age; and the suspicion of age, no woman, let her be ever so old, ever forgives..."

Lord Chesterfiel Letters to his Son (11.1.1750)