DEAR ABBY: I'm writing because I think you will be pleased that there's a non-native speaker of English who reads your column every day to develop her reading skills.
I've learned many good expressions from the letters and your responses. Your column is also perfect for broadening my understanding of the American people. It's full of ordinary people, unlike the weird types we see on television talk shows.
I subscribe to my paper just for your column, and I read the section it is in before I read anything else.
Abby, I'm grateful that my tutor, Martha, who is also an enthusiastic reader, recommended I read your column to improve my English. -- HIDEKO IN LA CRESCENTA, CALIF.
DEAR HIDEKO: Thank you for your flattering letter. I have heard from other people in various parts of the world who sharpen their English skills by reading my column, but it's always nice to hear from another one.