Borredo as I'm sure you know the Japanese consider saving face a good business outcome from a bad situation they themselves created. If the come out looking like the accomplished what they wanted then they consider themselves the winner. I believe that is exactly what that sentence does and I don't have a problem with it. I spent 4 different tours in Korea, Japan and Okinawa. I know the sure way to make an enemy is to embarass any oriental. Conversely, compliment them in public and you have a friend for life. Just the way they are wired I guess. Best to you and yours for this blessed season.

Kirk