DEAR MISS MANNERS: A woman of my acquaintance whom I see socially from time to time (not a close friend) is hosting a belated wedding celebration for her daughter. She has asked me if three out-of-town guests might stay in my house, pointing out that I could charge them for their stay.

I am not in need of money and have no interest in sharing my home with complete strangers, even for a few days. What is the least awkward way to tell this woman that I’m declining to host her guests?

GENTLE READER: The most polite answer is, “I’m so sorry, but I can’t.”

Miss Manners is unable to say what will be least awkward with someone whose idea of social grace is to billet her friends on a stranger — and then suggest bilking those friends.

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