[neilmarr]

Of course, Zelda, you're right. I feel, though, that 'monsieur' (in a country where
French is the native language) is more like an informal apology that your surname is unknown, but at the same time offers a gentle, unobtrusive sense of respect (you would return the 'monsieur' to whoever addresses you, though if a taillor or shopkeeper addresses you as 'sir' in an English-speaking country, you're unlikely to respond in kind). Followed by the surname -- eg M. Marr -- it's different. Makes me feel old and makes me feel like I'm a mere visitor to the day and the company. I also like how folks where I live refer to a man as 'le monsieur': that gives even a passing stranger a little standing as a man with esteem even though he's just ... well ... just a guy. Also, I don't mind: "Hi man -- how's it goin'?" I'm not one for formality. Neil Marr (Mrs)

ntmarrATbewrite.net