DEAR ABBY: I have worn a hairpiece for about 15 years and have been at my present job for the past five. My toupee was expensive and it's not obvious. I have never told anyone at work that my full head of hair isn't natural.
Last weekend at a work-related social function, my wife astonished me by mentioning to a group of my co-workers over cocktails that I wear a hairpiece. After we left the party, I became angry with her for making this revelation, but she refused to accept why I was so upset.
Then my wife had the nerve to say, "Don't you think they already know you wear a toupee?" I told her I didn't think they had any idea, but that was beside the point. The important thing was that I felt she betrayed a confidence.
Now she wants to ask someone impartial whether or not she goofed -- so I'm asking you, Abby. Do you think she should have told my work associates about my toupee, and do you think I was wrong for getting upset with her? -- BLOWING MY TOP IN OHIO
DEAR BLOWING MY TOP: Your reaction was understandable. Some "secrets" are supposed to remain in the family. Your wife's indiscretion was cruel and uncalled for. It's as out of line as it would be for you to tell her friends she wears dentures and falsies -- she'd hit the roof.