Quote by Lord Chesterfield
Politeness is as much concerned in answering letters within a reasonable time, as it is in returning a bow, immediately.
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Summary
This quote emphasizes the importance of responding to letters promptly, similar to how one would quickly acknowledge a bow. Politeness is not only reflected in face-to-face interactions but also in written communication. Just as it would be considered impolite to ignore someone's greeting, failing to respond to a letter within a reasonable time can be seen as a lack of courtesy. The quote highlights the notion that promptness in correspondence is crucial for maintaining politeness and respect in social interactions.