DEAR ABBY: I am a widow in my late 60s, attractive and youthful looking (I'm told). For the past three years, I have been going out with a nice man my age, "Dell." I have him over for home-cooked meals, and I occasionally pay for our dinners and movies out. Dell is also my guest for dinners at my club, and of course I pay the club dues.
Sometimes I pick him up in my car for our dates and day trips. He can well afford to take me out and pick up the check, but he always says, "Let's keep it even."
I am becoming more and more uncomfortable when we're having dinner out, because I resent being expected to split the cost of everything. Dell is an educated, interesting man. I find myself wondering if I'm out of step with the times -- or if he's cheap.
Abby, I feel used. I'm beginning to lose respect for Dell. I'm from the old school: If a man asks a lady out, he pays. What's your opinion? Should I tell him I'm tired of nit-picking expenses and stop paying for half of everything? -- FRUSTRATED IN THE LONE STAR STATE
DEAR FRUSTRATED: Sitting quietly while resentment builds will eventually destroy your relationship if you allow it to continue. Remind him that you are from the old school and what that means to you. But remember that it also means you will pick up the check when you call and ask him out. It will be interesting to see whether you wind up playing solitaire once you lay your cards on the table.