MISS MANNERS by Judith Martin, Nicholas Ivor Martin and Jacobina MartinDEAR MISS MANNERS: A co-worker invited a few people and their spouses over to watch a popular sporting event. Never having met his wife or having been to his home, I brought a seasonal hand soap as a small thank-you for hosting us. To avoid such a situation in the future, should I no longer bring a hostess gift to gatherings? GENTLE READER: Hostess gifts are not the requirement they were once commonly considered, and Miss Manners would definitely dispense with them if the hosts are only going to ridicule you for your efforts. Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, gentlereader@missmanners.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.