Sir, - I am making a collection of commonly told lies. The classic is this genre is, of course: "The cheque is in the post", but there are many others including: "This hurts me more than it hurts you"; "We are just good friends"; "This isn't a personal matter"; "I am only trying to be helpful"; "This isn't about money, it's a matter of principle".
Recently two others, which are associated with a particular group, have come, to the fore: We condemn all violence". And more recently: "We are not in the business of condemnation". Other readers may like to contribute their own favourites. - Yours, etc.,
Upper Woodlands,
Tower, Co Cork.