Readers answer the problems that Joe Joseph dealt with this week:
Sloth and advancing age preclude me from closing the waistband of my remaining suit. A new one for my godson’s wedding will cost me £180. Should I donate this amount to the newlyweds and wear a non-matching outfit?
The centre back seam of men’s tailored trousers usually passes through the waistband and has a seam allowance. Unpicking this can allow an enlargement of almost 2in — cheaper than buying a new suit.
N. Campbell, via e-mail
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I often have large quantities of high-quality goods for a charity shop. Should I take them to the one whose charity is dearest to me, or where I know the goods will fetch a higher price?
If the reader is concerned with her cast-offs raising high sums, she should take them to the more expensive shop, then donate an equivalent sum to her favourite charity.
Gwen Williamson, via e-mail
Though 16, I look younger. When I buy a rail ticket, I am often charged child rate. Should I reveal that I should pay the full fare, or see it as a clerical mistake?
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Karma dictates that if you carry on, when you want to look older, your currently useful youthful visage will not be so treasured and will prevent your doing certain things. Be mature: cough up.
Sally Bradshaw, via e-mail
I lost my mobile phone at a sporting event and a woman found it. She refused my offer to reimburse her the cost of the postage, suggesting that, instead, I buy a homeless person a drink. Should I, rather than wallowing in my good fortune?
You aren’t morally obliged by a suggestion. But knowing that you are helping someone else will make you feel that good fortune is all around.
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Brian Drysdale, via e-mail
FACING A DILEMMA
Have you a dilemma of your own? Write to Modern Morals, Times Features, 1 Pennington Street, London, E98 1TT. Email: modernmorals@thetimes.co.uk