I think it's a sweet, gentlemanly gesture just like the offer to light a lady's cigarette or hold out a chair. Problem is, there are so many young women nowadays who've never seen such offers extended that such gentle chivalry takes them by surprise and makes them feel like they're being condescended to instead of pampered.

I think it's lovely when either gender extends a courtesy to the other, whether it's fetching a drink, serving a plate, opening a door or lighting something to be lit. I confess that when men hold my chair out for me or hold doors open, I find that very charming and sexy. I'm an old lady, though, so I remember when that was standard operating behavior.