DEAR MISS MANNERS: Is there a polite way to ask someone their name if you forgot it? I have found myself in this awkward situation numerous times and never know what to say.
GENTLE READER: “I am so sorry -- I know that we have met before, but please tell me your name again. I’m Jacinda Wilsome.”
Miss Manners assures you, however, that you can only get away with this tactic once before you start to test the person’s patience -- and powers of forgiveness.
(Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)