Guide to Conduct and...

Dictionary

Guide to Conduct and Ceremony

Part 1. General Propriety

Chapter 13. Congratulations and Condolences

Section 4. Replying to Receipt of Congratulations and Condolences

1. When one receives congratulations, one should always be sure not to forget to be thankful and, according to the situation, should express thanks in person, or write a thank‐you note. It is important to keep a record of congratulatory gifts or money with the names of those who gave congratulations so that one can be sure not to forget to congratulate them when they have good fortune.
2. On receiving expressions of condolences, one must be sure always to be thankful and, according to the situation, should express one's thanks in person or send a thank-you note in return. Also keep a record of condolence gifts or money with the names of those who gave condolences so that one can be sure not to forget to send condolence in return when necessary.
3. When a special good relationship has formed between people who have exchanged congratulations and condolences, one should tell that story to one's offspring and be sure they maintain the friendship of families through generations.