DEAR MISS MANNERS: I’m a single woman who is frequently asked about my plans for marriage. The individuals making these inquiries have no business asking this question, let alone hearing the answer.

I typically smile and change the subject without answering their question. A few times, when particularly startled, I have responded with, “I beg your pardon.”

Is there a more polite way to handle this highly impertinent question?

GENTLE READER: “If this is a proposal, I am sorry to have to disappoint you.”

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