servant, it is proper to say “Thank you”. For example, you would say “Thank you” in any of the following circumstances: if someone picked up and handed to you something you had dropped; if your neighbor at table or a servant passed some food to you; if someone showed you the way to go; if a member of the family, even if quite young, brought you something you wanted; if the postman handed you a letter; if a clerk in a store handed you the article you had bought, When anything is offered to you, it is not polite to say, “I don’t want it”, as Chinese manners would allow. You should say, “I don’t want it ”, as Chinese manners would allow. You should say, “Yes, thank you”, if you wish it; or “No, thank you,” if you refuse it
According to Western manners it is necessary to beg a person’s pardon in each of the following circumstances: if you accidentally knock or brush against someone; if you touch the arm or foot of someone sitting at table; if you are forced to pass in front of someone; if you find it necessary to interrupt a conversation; if you disturb someone at work, in writing a letter, in reading, in playing a game, etc…If you find you have blocked someone’s view or have come between him and the light, you may say, “Pardon me”, or “I beg your pardon”. Nowadays people often say “Sorry”, or “Excuse me”. If it is a very small matter, the only reply necessary is a smile and a slight inclination of the head. Otherwise you may say, “Certainly”, or some reply suitable to the circumstances. If you find it absolutely necessary to leave your guests, or to leave someone you are conversing with, say, “Excuse me for a moment, please”. “Certainly”, or a smile and a nod is sufficient reply.
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