A gentleman frequently purchases gift certificates for his sister, who hasn’t redeemed them despite a specific item being restocked. The shop owner is unsure whether to inform him about her lack of engagement with the shop. Instead of directly stating the situation, a polite approach is advised: express concern for her wellbeing to prompt the brother to inquire about the status of his sister's use of the gift certificates. This way, both parties can avoid any embarrassment regarding the situation.
"I hope that your sister is well. I haven't seen her in the shop in a while, and I was concerned. I would love her to enjoy the things that you are kind enough to facilitate her buying."
"This is a gentle way to alert him to the certificate situation, while legitimately veiling it under the more polite guise that your concern is really about her health."
"Miss Manners will add that it also saves both of you the embarrassment if it gets back to her of ratting her out if her taste in shops has changed."
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