> > BE: 'You have (got) the new Rowling book, haven't you?'
>
> > NA: "You have the new Rowling book, don't you?"
> >
>
> The first one reads better on the page as standard english. To me, anyway. What's weirder is that I got the impression the first one is definitely in an accusing tone. i.e. The questioner is insinuating that if you don't have the book you're inferior. The second one is polite enquiry. i.e. Well, if you don't have it I'll just look elsewhere.
>
> Is that strange? Finding hidden meanings in two perfectly innocent questions. Or is it just a side effect of being a rinkworks addict?
>
> I'll just go and lie down now!
>
> Be 'afraid! Be very afraid! or I'll get n' asty

Heh. When I read over the first sentence it *does* give me the impression that the questioner is somewhat stiff and severe. I attributed my reaction to lack of familiarity with the nuances in spoken British overtones, though. However if *you're* getting the same impression, even with your fine English sensibilities, that does give some pause for thought, no? Well, I think I need to sit down harder for this one. :-)

Wolf's "Pint glass half-empty or half-full of" spirit?