The Mentor A little book for the guidance of such men and boys as would appear to advantage in the society of persons of the better sort

"The Mentor" by Alfred Ayres is a guide from the 1800's about how men and boys can act in a way that is seen as good in high society. It underlines how important culture, good behavior, and conversation skills are in making someone a gentleman. The writer starts off by explaining why manners matter, saying knowing what is normal and accepted is needed to do well socially; it then goes over how one should look and dress, following the standards of the time. According to Ayres, being a good person and being educated are more important than being rich to being accepted by the upper class, before giving tips on things like how to dress right and eat politely, so the reader is prepared when meeting and talking with others.