DEAR MISS MANNERS: For my 40th birthday, my sister planned a bowling party. She is very organized, and pre-entered the names of all 12 guests into the lanes (two lanes, six people at each).

Do we have to invite them to join us at a restaurant at some point? If so, may we try to “dilute” them by inviting others?

DEAR MISS MANNERS: A pair of neighbors hosted my wife and me for an impromptu dinner, to which we contributed a nice salad.

In today's Miss Manners column, advice columnist Judith Martin is asked how to get a young couple to send a "thank you" note.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: We have been friends for many years with a married couple and their adult son. They are a very wealthy and ...

We will soon begin seeing the young couple and his parents frequently, as the social season is beginning. When we see them, ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: We have been friends for many years with a married couple and their adult son. They are a very wealthy and ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: We have been friends for many years with a married couple and their adult son. They are a very wealthy and ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: My husband and I, along with a friend, purchased hard-to-get opera tickets. We’ve looked forward to ...

My husband and I, along with a friend, pre-purchased hard-to-get opera tickets. We’ ve looked forward to attending for many months. GENTLE READER: That is not the least hurtful way, but Miss Manners ...

Now that we know the dog is going, we want to bow out of the engagement but would prefer to do it in the least hurtful way.

She plans to bring her annoying poodle to dinner and the opera. Her friends want to bow out. Dear Miss Manners: My husband ...