Miss Manners: 'The late Mr. John Doe requests the honor of my presence'?

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I received a wedding invitation from a good friend that began, “Mrs. Sallie Doe and the Late Mr. John Doe request the presence of your company at the marriage of their daughter.”

I was torn between amusement and pity. Assuming I could not attend, how would one direct regrets to the Dear Departed?

Now I’m wondering if the Dear Departed will be on hand to give the bride away -- which might be a compelling reason to attend. A penny for your thoughts?

GENTLE READER: That you should try very hard to suppress the amusement and go with the pity.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: When and where should a lady wear white gloves?

GENTLE READER: Nowadays, probably when she is handling valuable antiques, serving on the staff of a very fancy restaurant, or dressing up as Minnie Mouse.

But Miss