DEAR MISS MANNERS: I just moved into a new home, and I wanted to keep that information private at the place where I am temporarily working. I’m not particularly close to anyone there. Several people are nice to me, but not to the point of being friends.

Well, word got out about my house, and now several people have invited themselves over or hinted as much. None of these people have ever socialized with me, so I find it odd and awkward that they would suddenly invite themselves.

I don’t entertain anyway, but I know telling them that will not work. I’m just really bothered that they say, “You’ll have to invite us over.” What would you do? I need a list of excuses!

GENTLE READER: No, you need only one: “I’m not planning anything.” Or fewer than one, if that is possible: a strained smile and silence.

Miss Manners understands that people who have trouble saying no might be sorry to disappoint those who importune them. Or they may be cowed by the authority with which some people state their demands.

But to give a specific excuse is to admit that the matter is open for discussion.

You say you are busy? “Well, when will you be free?” they will ask.

You say that the house is not ready for visitors? “That’s all right; we don’t expect it to be in perfect shape.”

You say you have guests coming? “We’d love to meet them.”

And so on. If you don’t supply material, they can’t argue.

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.