DEAR MISS MANNERS: My co-worker recently purchased some computer equipment for his new career. He generously offered me the expensive computer mouse he had previously been using.

I couldn’t accept such a pricey item for free, so I looked at what I had in my wallet and said, “I have to at least give you $20.” He responded, “How’s $50?”

I smiled and insisted he give it to someone else or save it for himself, even after he said he’d take the $20 (albeit embarrassed).

Should I have just taken it, seeing as he’ll be gone soon as it is? Was I rude for offering money for a gift?

GENTLE READER: After a send-off this awkward, did everyone have to come to work wearing paper bags over their heads for a week afterwards, Miss Manners wonders?

Yes, it was rude to offer money for a gift. You certainly could have either accepted or declined it as you chose.

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.