DEAR ABBY: In response to "Well-Fed in Sacramento," who was ashamed when those treating her to dinner left inadequate tips: Why doesn't SHE offer to leave the tip? This is a polite response when one party insists on paying, and it would relieve her of the embarrassment of the host leaving an insufficient tip. -- LIKES TO EAT OUT IN BOONTON, N.J.
DEAR LIKES TO EAT OUT: Now why didn't I think of that? It would work nicely if the hosts would allow it. If not, the guest could take my suggestion of leaving additional money quietly as he or she leaves the table.