I’ve met and gone on dates with more than 10 people through introductions, but the other day was the first time someone gave me only 5,000 yen as the initial allowance (transportation expenses).

I’m in my 60s and feeling a little lost. I agree with the gentleman who described his intense papa-katsu experiences. After meeting so many people, hasn’t your sense of money already become distorted? Even though he stayed within the rules, I feel it’s a bit much to criticize and put him down. When did it become an accepted assumption—and who decided—that ¥5,000 means a stingy man or a sign that he wants to end things...?

I’m Hikōki, a male member. Did he say anything like “I wanted to meet you” or “I’d like to see you again”? If he liked you, he could have given you a gift or at least covered your taxi fare home. So offering only 5,000 yen suggests either he has no pride or he really wasn’t that interested, don’t you think? The date itself wasn’t anything special either, was it? If you leave feedback, the club may eventually force him to leave. Apparently, even clubs are pretty strict with stingy men.

This is Saito, a column writer♪ I understand how you feel. From the man’s perspective, he probably felt he was simply following the rule of providing 5,000–10,000 yen for transportation. But everyone has different views about money, so unfortunately, the only answer I can give is: “That’s just how he sees it.” That may also mean he felt unable to express his feelings in monetary terms. Even if you continue negotiating with him or the relationship develops, I have a feeling it may not lead to a very positive outcome. After this experience with him, perhaps the more positive way to look at it is to once again realize that the ten-plus people you’ve met so far were wonderful by comparison. I hope you continue to have many wonderful encounters.