The Butler's Guide to Running the Home and Other Graces

Fascinating look at elegant living, through the expert perspective of an actual English butler (his service began in 1922). The book is roughly equal parts reminiscences about the way the great houses operated, and step-by-step instructions on serving port, polishing shoes, setting the table, and caring for silver. His instructions on folding clothes for travel are thoroughly effective. Sprinkled throughout are more extreme tidbits, such as the proper way to iron a newspaper (so that Gentleman #2 has a "fresh" newspaper, once Gentleman #1 has finished with it). What comes through, loud and clear, is Mr. Ager's craftsmanlike pride in the work that he did. Flicking the dust off a suit jacket takes skill, and hearing him teach that skill is a pleasure.