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 Prudence,
One of my favorite aunts proposed to visit the White House along with two young nieces when they vacation in Washington this spring. Ordinarily, I wouldn't give this matter further thought, but since I've read so much about scandalous behavior in the Oval Office, I think maybe they should skip the White House and spend more time in the Capitol instead. Mostly I am concerned that my nieces' reputations will suffer when they return home to the inevitable questions from curious friends. Please help me: White House or no White House?
--Uncle Cautious
Dear Unc,
Oh, by all means, White House. Prudie feels certain that young tourists are safe from the alleged scandalous behavior. You do not say how old your nieces are, so just a small caveat: If they are in the intern age bracket, simply advise them that the room off the Oval Office is not on the tour.
--Prudie, prophylactically
Dear Prudence,
I couldn't wait to get e-mail at my office, because I hate returning phone calls. Now I find I hate returning e-mails. What do I do? And what's the proper etiquette for an e-mail kiss-off? How long can I keep saying, "Oh, I didn't get it. Can you resend?"
