Miss Manners: It's OK to drink with those opting not to

Dear Miss Manners: When offering a drink to a guest, what is the response to the reply "I don't drink" or "My religion forbids alcohol"?

Of course I would offer a soft drink as an alternative, but would it be impolite to drink alcohol myself? Should I ask if it would make them uncomfortable, or just avoid the issue and settle for water?

Miss Manners says: Avoid the issue. Drink your drink, and offer him something else.

To decline a drink, whether because it is alcoholic, sugar-laden or merely repulsive, and whether the reason is religious, medical or preference, a guest need only say, "No, thank you."

If your guest volunteers more information in a misguided but well-meant desire to explain his behavior, no additional action is necessary.

If his intent is to criticize your behavior, then no good can come of further probing. A guest who expects you to put him at ease by scooping up already-served drinks from other guests is asking too much.

Dear Miss Manners: Twice I've been present at events when a guest came to the table and switched the place cards.

The other time I was a guest, and the man who was to be my dinner partner exchanged his card with one across the table. I was nonplussed, but said nothing. What could I have possibly said or done?

Miss Manners says: You could have told your wouldn't-be partner, "Oh, I'm so sorry; I had looked forward to sitting next to you." And considered yourself lucky to be rid of him.

As hostess, you are not so lucky in having a guest who assumes your prerogative. In that case, you should say firmly, "I planned this for everyone's enjoyment," and held out your hand for his place card. Miss Manners believes in letting the guilty party feel nonplussed, not the victim.

Dear Miss Manners: A good friend of mine lost her job several months ago. She greatly enjoys live theater, but has not been going because she is conserving her finances. My husband and I are doing well financially, and I would love to buy her a ticket and take her as my guest as a nice diversion from her long days of job-hunting.

However, she is very proud and would likely insist on paying for the ticket, or for a meal, and I do not want her to spend money she does not have.

Miss Manners says: You had Miss Manners up until you got to the excuse, which, though well-intentioned, puts you on murky ethical grounds for no reason — not to mention opening you up to getting caught if Howard is at the window when your friend picks you up.

"Howard and I purchased tickets for 'Wicked' and he cannot go with me. I would love it if you would go," is more than enough. Howard cannot go because you told him he can't, but you needn't mention that.