Miss Manners: Is that something we said? Sister-in-law’s silent outings leave family perplexed

DEAR MISS MANNERS: My sister-in-law has been invited to several family functions. She attends, but always leaves without saying goodbye. We look up and she leaves without saying anything to anyone. I think this is rude behavior. There have been some family disagreements in the past, but nothing too serious. I’m starting to think she doesn’t like us and is going out out of obligation. What is your opinion?

GENTLE READER: Your sister-in-law’s point of view is probably more relevant than Miss Manners’. So she suggests you say, “We were so happy to see you at Cousin Ethan’s retirement party, but you left before we had a chance to say goodbye.” Is this something we said? At that point she will either tell you or not. But at least she will have been warned… that you noticed.

(Please send your questions to Miss Manners on her website, www.missmanners.com; to his email, [email protected]; or by postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)