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.