I was ready to sink into the earth with shame

Got to a party, get shite faced, be a fool and now it’s the next day. You might send a whatsapp, before, things were more formal.

In the 9th Century, the ‘Dunhuang Bureau of Etiquette’ scrolls from the Tang Dynasty insisted that local officials use the following letter template (dated 856) when sending apologies to offended dinner hosts.

The Alex aka “drunk person” at the party would copy the template text, enter the dinner host’s name, sign the letter, and then deliver with head bowed.

The letter was discovered, alongside thousands of other documents, in a sealed cave library in western China in the Mogao caves.

I love they needed a template.

Translation

Apology

Yesterday, having drunk too much, I was intoxicated as to pass all bounds; but none of the rude and coarse language I used was uttered in a conscious state. The next morning, after hearing others speak on the subject, I realised what had happened, whereupon I was overwhelmed with confusion and ready to sink into the earth with shame. It was due to a vessel of my small capacity being filled for the nonce too full. I humbly trust that you in your wise benevolence will not condemn me for my transgression. Soon I will come to apologise in person, but meanwhile I beg to send this written communication for your kind inspection. Leaving much unsaid, I am yours respectfully.

Reply

Yesterday, Sir, while in your cups, you so far overstepped the observances of polite society as to forfeit the name of gentleman, and made me wish to have nothing more to do with you. But since you now express your shame and regret for what has occurred, I would suggest that we meet again for a friendly talk.