The Editor, Sir:

I was born to parents that were born and bred in the "old school" and as such many of the virtues that I have come to adapt as my own transcend the generation to which I belong.

Just today as I entered my office I realised that a well-dressed gentleman (at least 10 years my senior; I am 24) and a lady got off the elevator with me. Hence, when I got to the door first I opened the door and stepped back to allow the lady to enter. I was utterly dumbfounded when the man stepped past both of us and had the nerve to say thanks while leaving the lady behind.

The moral decay that is now plaguing most societies across the world has been blamed on so many factors, and one such is the loss of simple rules of etiquette and good manners. I am very bothered by the fact that one of my elders could have behaved in what I consider to be such an uncouth manner and implore others in society to pull up their socks and do better. .

I am, etc.,

RANDELL BAILEY

rtmbailey@yahoo.com