Mary Killen Mary Killen

Dear Mary: How do I tell my neighbour to bring flowers or chocolates to dinner instead of wine?

[iStock] 
issue 26 November 2022

Q. I work as a PA for someone who constantly refers to my husband by the wrong name (Gerald instead of Gerard). This has been going on for months. I have corrected her twice with no result. What do you suggest? My husband is beginning to feel chippy about this. 

– Name and address withheld

A. Orchestrate things so that your employer has to send you an email or text in which it’s necessary to refer to your husband. Then say pleasantly: ‘I can tell you used autocorrect when you sent that message because the machine changed my husband’s name from the correct Gerard to Gerald!’   

Q. We frequently invite a lonely neighbour to a meal. He always brings a bottle of good wine. I do not drink alcohol (and neither does he) and would much prefer some chocolates, flowers or a house plant.

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