Sometimes it is necessary to tell someone bad news gently.

            1.A: I'm afraid I spilled coffee on the tablecloth¹.
            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 ashtray².
            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