DEAR MISS MANNERS: We have dinner guests about two times a month. What should I say when one or more of my guests gets up and begins to clear the dishes while I am not even half finished with my dinner?
Surely that person is trying to help, and I do not want to embarrass or admonish my guest. "Please be seated until everyone is finished with their dinner" just does not sound right. Does Miss Manners have a solution?
GENTLE READER: She does -- in fact, she has several. First, ask your guest please not to trouble herself; you will take care of that. The words suggest that you are being gracious, but the tone must be serious enough to ensure you are taken seriously.
When your would-be helper pauses to consider, turn to another guest who is still eating and apologize: "I'm so sorry. I didn't notice you were still eating." This should settle any dispute. But if it does not, offer seconds.