Hi Martin,
Speaking as POM, most of the Americans I have met have been courteous and friendly, even in LA ( no offence ) we met with some real kindness. I don't think email encourages politeness as it is so immediate. It is too easy to send something off without thinking. Something I have been guilty of on a few occaisions. :)
Helping out with my son's internet business I have been amazed at how rude people can be. However sometimes I think it is unintentional and perhaps it's best to give people the benefit of the doubt.
I admit your example is brusque but you could just email him back the answer $xxxxx.
--- In newmellotrongroup@yahoogroups.com, tronbros <tronbros@...> wrote:
>
> Dear All,
>
> I recieved this message:
>
> <<What is the dollar value of the Mellotron mkII #∗∗∗? I may be interested in purchasing it.>>
>
> That's it. Where are the common courtesies of hello, please and thankyou? I am fucking well fed up with the lack of manners in emails, sadly eminating from the USA in almost every instance. People want our help but can't couch it with any grace or politeness. This person can get well and truly stuffed. So, to my esteemed US friends, what do you think?
>
> Best,
>
> Martin
>
> mellotronics.co.uk
>