DEAR MISS MANNERS: Both of my sisters-in-law’s grandchildren graduated from high school last weekend. We gladly traveled the two hours to their respective parties and gave each one a cash gift.

Both sisters-in-law have texted, thanking us for coming and for the nice gifts. I suspect (in one instance, anyway) that we’re not to expect a reply from the recipient, as the text went into detail how appreciative the graduate is, how the money will be put to use and what his future plans are.

How do I respond? It feels misplaced to say “You’re welcome” to the grandparents, when we attended and gifted in honor of the graduates.

GENTLE READER: The problem, as both you and the sisters-in-law know or suspect, is that the unmannerly recipients are not going to express thanks themselves.

So the question within your question is whether you let the sisters-in-law — who do not want you to think ill of their grandchildren — off the hook.

Miss Manners would have you text back that you are “Glad they are enjoying the gift.” This will reassure the sisters-in-law that you have no quarrel with them — while its brevity relieves you of directly addressing the larger question.

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.