DEAR MISS MANNERS: My friend and I had an exquisite meal at a very expensive restaurant. I paid because they didn’t have their wallet on them, even though they ordered most of the food for themselves.

Long story short, how do I politely decline paying for dinner tonight?

GENTLE READER: Actually, the follow-up dinner makes it easy. You don’t have to do any bill collecting; when the check comes, just say, “Your turn. I got it last time.”

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