DEAR MISS MANNERS: When a woman asks a man over to dinner, is it good manners for the man to say, “I am too busy to come eat, but I will take your leftovers”?
I think it is really poor manners, but another lady I know says it depends on how good of friends you are. I say it is just wrong.
GENTLE READER: Unless this woman works at a drive-through or a charity, this counter-suggestion is insulting and unacceptable, no matter how good the friend. Miss Manners suggests that the hostess answer, “I was asking in order to enjoy your company, not for the chance to cook, but thank you. Perhaps we can reschedule when you have more time.” The second sentence is optional.