Conversation is a minefield until you learn the conventions, Jane dear.’
‘I’ll never learn all the rules,’ muttered Jane.
‘Yes, you will,’ said Phryne. ‘Then you can bend them. The best advice I would give you is, “If under attack, cause a diversion”.’
‘A diversion?’
‘Yes, trip over the dog, spill a glass of wine on your attacker, burst into song, challenge your attacker to a duel. And the angrier you get, the lower your voice should be. Never shout unless you are shouting “Fire!

Autore: Kerry Greenwood