Many Slate readers have expressed regret that Prudence has abandoned her advice column in favor of her needlework. Sensitive to the continuing need for guidance among Slate readers, however, Prudence has prevailed upon her niece and namesake, Prudence, to assume the responsibility. In coming weeks, Prudie (as she is known to friends) will begin to respond to some of the unanswered e-mails that have piled up in her aunt's queue as well as to new inquiries that readers may submit. Like her aunt, Prudie will be drawing upon her rich experience of life in responding to questions about manners, personal relations, politics, and other subjects. Unlike her aunt, she does not do macroeconomics--though, in the family tradition, she does do needlepoint.

As before, you should send your questions for publication to Prudence@slate.com. Queries should not exceed 200 words. Please indicate how you wish your letter to be signed, preferably including your location.

Dear Prudie,

Recently Bill Gates received a pie in the face from what I assume were self-proclaimed enemies. How did Gates handle it, and what would have been the best response?

--Wondering From Arizona

Dear Won,

Prudie, of course, does not accompany Mr. Gates on trips, so she is unable to tell you his reaction. All one could see in the news photos was a picture of him mopping up.

There is really no gracious way to receive a pie in the face ... unless it might be to say, "This is not quite as good as my mother used to make."

--Prudie, tastefully

Oh, Prudie,