Mary Killen Mary Killen

Dear Mary: Is it rude to answer my child’s call when I’m already on the phone?

Plus: Learn to blow your nose without being noticed; and prevent book theft

issue 13 September 2014

Q. My problem is that an older friend, with whom I enjoy lengthy telephone chats, becomes furious when my call waiting service flashes up the number of one of my elusive children and I ask if I may put her on hold very briefly. She says it is rude to her, that I have spoilt my children, and ‘they’ll just have to wait’. My friend is not in touch with the frantic pace of the modern world and does not grasp that the child may not respond if I call back five minutes later, thus causing me anxiety. I value our conversations but we have reached an impasse. What should I do? — M.W., Pewsey, Wilts

A. If you are on your mobile, say ‘Can I call you back from a landline?’ and vice versa if you’re already on a landline. Hang up directly to allow the waiting call to come through.

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