DEAR MISS MANNERS: I need to know if I am justified in feeling miffed.
Let me set the scene: I was the second of three people waiting in line to pay for our purchases at a local shop in our small town. The proprietor was the cashier, known to all of us.
First Person in Line was having a spirited conversation while her purchases were wrapped and bagged. Third Person and I maintained our silence. However, after First Person said her goodbyes, Third Person started right in — loudly conversing with the proprietor about people I knew nothing about and usurping my opportunity to fully enjoy an important part of my local shopping experience. I could barely get in a “yes” when asked if I wanted my gifts wrapped.
Am I right in feeling slighted?
GENTLE READER: Sure. You waited patiently for your turn and were robbed of a good gossip with your local proprietor.
With any luck, it was a singular offense. If it happens again, however, you have Miss Manners’ consent to insert yourself into the conversation: “Who are you talking about? Liza? I’m not sure I know her. I do know Lisa on Mulberry Street, and she’s a doll. Her cherry trees are in full bloom right now. Have you seen them? Oh, you definitely should …”
This should teach Third Person to wait their conversational turn.
***
(Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website,
www.missmanners.com
; to her email,
; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)
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