"Brush!" A tip for social success

Years ago I was reading a Nancy Mitford novel - can't remember which one, but anyway - the story involved young ladies of good social standing, who were forced to endure endless visits from other young ladies/maiden aunts/potential suitors. It was (obviously) set in the 19th century. Think Jane Austen-type scenes - whether or not you want to see someone, people just arrive and expect to be entertained with scintillating chatter, songs at the harpsicord or perhaps a round of whist. So the girls in the book were given this fabulous piece of advice, which I also decided to try, and it has never let me down.

When you are standing outside a room, into which you really don't want to go but have to for whatever reason, say the word "brush" and keep your mouth in that exact position as you enter. You will present your guests with a beaming smile, no matter what you are feeling inside. Try it for yourself - it works! You can use it for any kind of situation. Even CG does it now, although to any non-English speakers reading this, it doesn't work if you translate it (we tried "Buerste").

So next time the doorbell rings and you see the outline of a person you would rather not, reach for this handy piece of advice. Or when you are standing outside your boss's office because he/she is about to haul you in for a roasting. Or whatever. BRUSH!