DEAR MISS MANNERS: I own a store where I sell fine paper goods. After countless coffee stains and food stains appeared on the merchandise, I put up a “NO FOOD OR DRINK” sign near the front door. People still come in with greasy pizza slices, dripping ice cream cones and overflowing cups of coffee.

When I repeat my rule and point to a tray where they can put their food or drink while they shop, they glare at me and storm out like I’m the bad guy. Is there a way to enforce my rule without them getting mad?

DEAR READER: Signs do indeed have authority—and people can conveniently blame them when enforcing the rules proves difficult. Pointing sheepishly at one and holding out a parking tray for the offending food and drink is pretty much all you can do.

Miss Manners hopes that when rude and inconsiderate customers leave the store, you can take comfort in the fact that the loss of a potential sale is less costly than a pile of greasy, unusable stationery. Her better behaved customers will appreciate it.

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(Please send your questions to Miss Manners on her website, www.missmanners.com; to your email, [email protected]; or by mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)