Perhaps she has to buy a new stairgate, fireguard, or fit in a lamp. This may be a big dip in her purse, but in this financial comparison it is trivial.

I sent out some feelers but they didn't seem interested.

I stand by the door, playing the role of greeter, accumulating lipstick impressions on my cheeks and, occasionally, a small gift -- a perk of the buy side.

Are you all right, chuck?