DEAR MISS MANNERS: More than a month before the performance, I invited my best friend to the concert. He said he had to get back to me because his sister’s birthday fell on the weekend. Two weeks have passed and I still haven’t heard from my friend.

By the way, my 11-year-old son asked if he could join with me. His father will also be there. I’d rather bring my son. What’s the best way to handle this?

kind reader: “I assumed you wouldn’t be able to attend the concert because I hadn’t heard from you. Marcus has expressed interest, so he’ll come with me. I hope to see you at another event soon.”

Miss Manners notes that this has the advantage of alerting your friend that he needs to act faster if he’s thinking of attending the next event.