#18 Washington’s Rules of Civility, 2026 Update with pet, Peeves

GW Rule #18

Read no letters, books, or papers in company but when there is a necessity for the doing of it you must ask leave: come not near the books or writings of another so as to read them unless desired or give your opinion of them unasked also look not nigh when another is writing a letter.

PEEVES

It can be rude to read or do work when someone else is in the room. Find another space. Don’t look over their shoulder. Keep your opinion unless asked for.

MADAMA

Unless you’re in school where people work at different times, just be aware of other people’s presence. Never look over their shoulder to peek at their writing.

SANDRA

People ask for your opinion if they want it. You can ask if they want some “feedback” but they have to say yes before you give it.

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#18 Washington’s Rules of Civility, 2026 Update with pet, Peeves