Sometimes it is necessary to tell someone bad news gently.

1.A: I’m afraid I spilled coffee on the tablecloth.

B: Oh, don’t worry about it.

A: I want to apologize. Is there anything I can do?

B: Just forget about it. I never did like it anyway.

2.A: I’m really sorry, but I seem to have misplaced your scarf.

B: Oh, that’s all right.

A: I’m very sorry. Can I get you another one?

B: No. Forget about it. It’s not important.

3.A: I’m sorry, but I can’t find the book you lent me.

B: That’s OK.

A: I really feel bad about it. Let me buy you a new one.

B: No. Don’t be silly. I wouldn’t dream of letting you do that.

4.A: I feel terrible, but I’ve just broken your ashtray.

B: It’s nothing to get upset about.

A: I don’t know what to say. I’d like to replace it.

B: No. It’s out of the question.