DEAR ABBY: Recently I borrowed a power tool from a neighbor. When I tried to use it, it didn't work. So I called my neighbor and we tried to fix it with no luck. To be polite, I said I was sorry. He replied, "You could pay for it."
It's a fairly expensive tool, and I definitely did not break it. It never worked. Do I owe him anything other than to thank him? If it was something under $50, I'd probably offer to buy a new one to keep relations cordial. But under the circumstances ... -- IT DIDN'T WORK
DEAR DIDN'T WORK: Talk to your neighbor again and repeat what you said. However, THIS time tell him your apology was not an admission of guilt, but condolences and regret that you were the bearer of bad news. Then give him more bad news, that you will not be paying for something you didn't break.