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Yesterday I was at a department store to buy some shoes for summer. Specifically, I have been planning to buy some decent sandals to wear with skirts or shorts.

The ad in the Sunday paper had what I wanted — quality sandals for good prices — $19.99 or $29.99 or $49.99, depending on brand and style.

I tried on six pairs and picked two, each $29.99, I thought. And I had a $10 coupon.

I wandered to another part of the store because I needed one other item, and went to the cash register.

"One pair is coming up at $29.99 and the other at $45.99," the clerk said.

Hmm, I said. I thought they were both $29.99. She offered to call the shoe department. I thanked her, and said if I mistakenly thought they were $29.99, that was my fault, but I wasn't getting that pair. I had the money — I just didn't think they were worth $45.99 — and she agreed!

The clerk got off the phone and said the person in the shoe department told her to sell the shoes for $29.99 a pair. She said he said the signage was unclear.

Moral of the story — you just never know. Speak up about prices!

— Christine Peterson