DEAR AMY: A recent letter from “Concerned Wife” sure sounded familiar. Her husband’s long-lost brother had suddenly reappeared after several decades after their mother’s death. She described him as “slippery,” in that he would never say where he was staying. That couple had better keep good track of all of their accounts. When my slippery long-lost brother blew into town, he managed to steal one of our checkbooks; by the time he left, he had stolen his late mother’s Social Security number and set up accounts in her name. You can imagine what a heartache this was — as well as being a nightmare that took us several years to resolve. I think when someone has stayed away and out of touch for decades and then suddenly returns with no logical explanation, it should cause everyone to be extremely cautious. I wish we had been. — Wary
DEAR WARY: Yes, your situation sounds like a nightmare. I’m glad you finally woke up.
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The Principle of Least Interest: He who cares least about a relationship, controls it.
Yes, it has been my experience that anytime a long lost relative or a friend from the distant past suddenly shows up with a big smile, etc. it is time to hide the silverware. Be careful if you have anyone show up like this..
