Published in 1745, Master George Washington's Rules of Civility were composed or transcribed during his 13th year. These 110 maxims on respect and courtesy for others reflected the education of an English gentleman of that time and place. Many of those rules—which Washington practiced throughout his life—are as valuable today as in the day they were penned. They form the Basis of The Washington Latin School’s Rules of Conduct and Etiquette.

Here are a few selected rules of the Father of Our Country.

1. Every action done in company ought to be with some sign of respect, to those that are present.
2. When in company, put not your hands to any par of the body, not usually discovered.
3. Shew nothing to your friend that may affright him.
4. In the presence of others, sing not to yourself with a humming noise, nor drum with your fingers or feet.
5. If you cough, sneeze, sigh, or yawn, do it not loud but privately; and speak not in your yawning, but put you handkerchief or hand before your face and turn aside.
6. Sleep not when others speak, sit not when others stand, speak not when you should hold your peace, and walk not when others stop.
7. Let your countenance be pleasant but in serious matters somewhat grave.
8. Shew not yourself glad at the misfortune of another though he were your enemy.
9. Superfluous complements and all affectation of ceremony are to be avoided, yet where due they are not to be neglected.
10. Let your discourse with men of business be short and comprehensive.
11. In writing or speaking, give to every person his due title according to his degree and the custom of the place.
12. Strive not with your superiors in argument, but always submit your judgment to others with modesty.
13. Wherein you reprove another be unblamable yourself; for example is more prevalent than precepts.
14. Use no reproachful language against any one; neither curse nor revile.
15. Associate yourself with men of good quality if you esteem your own reputation; for 'tis better to be alone than in bad company.
16. Think before you speak; pronounce not imperfectly nor bring out your words too hastily but orderly and distinctly.
17. Undertake not what you cannot perform, but be careful to keep your promise.
18. Speak not evil of the absent for it is unjust.
19. Let your recreations be manfull, not sinfull.
20. Labour to keep alive in your breast that little spark of celestial fire called conscience.