DEAR MISS MANNERS: My supervisor at work occasionally buys coffee for everyone in our small department. It is a nice gesture, and she pays out of her own pocket.

One of my co-workers, however, makes a habit of not only requesting the most expensive options, but also several food items. She encourages all of our co-workers to order additional items, as well.

I believe my supervisor has begun to feel that she is being taken advantage of. Is there a tactful way for me to approach my co-worker, or should I leave the situation alone?

GENTLE READER: Leaving it alone is less likely to get you in trouble, but Miss Manners suspects what you really want to know is how to intervene.

“Did you realize that she’s buying this out of her own pocket? The company doesn’t reimburse her,” you might say. “That’s so nice of her.”

If that’s too subtle, you could add, “The cookies are delicious, but I don’t want to discourage her from treating us all again.” If that is still too subtle, leave the situation alone.

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.