DEAR MISS MANNERS: A longtime acquaintance joined us for a casual meal at our home. Eating her sandwich resulted in a scattering of crumbs on the table. I was surprised to see her hand sweep the crumbs from the table to the floor -- twice! -- while she ate. Our home is not a beer-soaked bar.
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Possible choices in the future: 1. Lightly say, “Hey, those crumbs won’t clean themselves up!” 2. Say, “Excuse me while I clean up your space” as I do so, using a whisk broom. 3. Hand her a wet wipe -- “Ants, you know!” or 4. Sadly, do not invite her to our table again. Which would you suggest?
GENTLE READER: 5. “Perhaps I should get you a bigger plate. That one does not seem to be doing this messy sandwich any favors.”