DEAR MISS MANNERS: I was in a restaurant and the waiter, unasked, brought extra napkins.
I became very self-conscious, thinking I must be making a mess. I checked my mirror and as far as I could tell, everything was fine, but I still felt embarrassed.
Sometimes I do need extra napkins, but I prefer to ask for them myself. On the other hand, I appreciate when a waiter refills my water without waiting to be asked, so I wouldn’t want to discourage their being alert and helpful.
What is your take?
GENTLE READER: That you embarrass much too easily.
(Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, [email protected]; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)