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Dear Annie: I have been talking with this gentleman for almost four years; we’ve been in a long-distance relationship online. He claims that he mailed me a large sum of money, and so he has nothing now. But I have not seen this box full of money that he supposedly sent. He keeps saying that it has to clear customs, and they need a large fee in order for it to go through. I don’t think that customs would be demanding large sums of money, and, anyway, it’s been months and months now. I told him if the box did not come within the 48 hours like he said that he and I were through. I am afraid it is fraud. What is your take on this?

—  Losing My Lover

Dear Losing My Lover: I’m afraid you’re right. This is textbook fraud. He’s trying to play you for a fool. Don’t let him.

• • •

Dear Annie: I have been seeing this guy, “Roy,” for a year and a half. When we are together, all he wants to do is hook up. He comes to my house all the time, but he never invites me to his. I actually still have no idea where he lives: I know the vicinity, but no specifics. He says he wants to keep some parts of his life private. And he only calls and talks to me on the phone when he is heading to or from work, but never when he’s at home. He tells me he loves me, but I’m not buying it. What do you think?

—  Help Me

Dear Help Me: I think that there’s a 99 percent chance he’s married and a 100 percent chance he’s not worth your time. End it ASAP. Breaking things off is rarely easy, but I guarantee that you will not regret this in the long term.

• • •

Dear Annie: The holidays are here and gifts are arriving. Once again, we’re getting boxes of chocolates, tins of mixed nuts, gourmet cheeses, fancy cookies and pastries. My husband and I eat a healthy diet, get regular exercise and are allergic to nuts and dairy. We’ve explained to people that these foods make us extremely sick and can even be life-threatening but still the same gifts come year after year. Their attitude seems to be: “Hey, it’s Christmas, for Pete’s sake. Lighten up and just enjoy. A little won’t hurt you.” So, I write a note, thanking them for thinking of us and wishing them a happy holiday, and then donate everything to the local food bank and homeless shelter. If you or your readers have suggestions on other ways to handle this, we would appreciate hearing them.

—  You Really Shouldn’t Have

Dear You Really Shouldn’t Have: Sorry to disappoint, but I have no real advice here. You’re already doing exactly what I’d suggest. As frustrating as these types of gifts might be for you and your husband, remember that there are many people who would be happy to receive any gifts at all.

Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.