DEAR MISS MANNERS: While shopping for furniture, I learned that one local store offered a deeper discount off of the manufacturer's price than another: 25% vs. 20%. The difference on what I was considering buying amounted to about $600.
While at the more expensive store, I asked if they would match the price at the other store. The manager said I would have to present her with written proof of the competitor's price before she would match it.
I saw this as extremely rude. First and foremost, I was offended that the proprietor didn't take me at my word. And even if she wanted to verify my claim, she could have done it easily (and out of my earshot) by making a call to the store herself.
Although I had been ready to buy from the more expensive store, I changed my mind. I told my sales associate that I didn't like being told that I might be lying.
My husband says my response was "harsh." Was I too sensitive, and wrong to be offended?
GENTLE READER: Yes, because, Miss Manners assures you, your honor was not at stake. This was a professional transaction and it was legitimate for the store to have asked you for proof.
We have all made the societal agreement that bargaining and advertising are held to a looser standard of truth in business. Otherwise we would all be calling a certain chicken restaurant a liar if we did not always lick our fingers after eating there.