DEAR MISS MANNERS: When the guest cancels a long-planned Sunday dinner at the host’s residence just a few hours beforehand (due to illness), who should follow up to reschedule? The host or the guest?

GENTLE READER: Genuine illness gets a pass, even if the host silently harbors resentment that the long-planned dinner was ruined at the last minute.

As it would be presumptuous of the guest to reschedule the event, and it is not known when the guest will be well again, Miss Manners suggests that the host says, “I hope you are feeling better. We would love to reschedule for next week if you are up to it; otherwise, please let us know when you are fully recovered and we’ll figure out a time.”

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at missmanners.com, by email to [email protected], or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.