Being polite pays

J. Keith Van Straaten’s “Money Matters” article “Earning Degree in Savings” (Feb. 4) was right on about politeness opening doors.

On one occasion, I was chatting with the gate agent when a businessman came up, slapped down his ticket and said, “I want an upgrade to first class.”

She replied, “Sir, we are fully booked in first class.” He stomped off.

As boarding began, she said, “Would you like to ride in first class?”

On another occasion, I arrived at my hotel and was told I did not have a reservation. The hotel was sold out.

I said to the desk agent, “I know you are an experienced professional and right now you don’t have a room for me, but soon you will find one. I will be in the bar.”

She found me a room. “I knew you would,” I said, “and thank you.”

Niceness begets niceness. Ed Lamphier Irvine