Sophistication might be described as the ability to cope gracefully with a situation involving the presence of a formidable menace to one's poise and prestige (such as the butler, or the man under the bed -- but never the husband).

Summary

This quote humorously defines sophistication as the skill to elegantly handle a situation where one's composure and reputation are threatened by a formidable threat, like a butler or a man under the bed. However, the quote emphasizes that the threatening entity should never be the husband, implying that a sophisticated person wouldn't be troubled by their spouse's actions or influence. It underscores the idea that true sophistication lies in maintaining grace and dignity in the face of external challenges, rather than internal relationship dynamics.

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