DEAR MISS MANNERS: I like to entertain using vintage crystal glassware. But if the glasses are clinked together when doing a toast, they can easily break.

So how do I stop the table or crowd from doing what seems like such a natural, warm gesture?

I often find myself holding my breath and joining in, as I hate to kill joy at my own party, even at the expense of expensive crystal! Luckily, almost any piece can be replaced these days, but couldn’t you find a way for me to save these gorgeous glasses and horrified guests?

GENTLE READER: If we use the crystal and, Miss Manners agrees, we cannot stop the toasting, the solution is to separate the two.

The key to doing this is multiple wines served at different stages of the meal that will, of necessity, require a switch of glassware. At what

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