Good story, Bingley!

Whit., I hear that question here, too, sometimes. It does grate on me, for two reasons: A., it's bad grammar; and B.,
it's such a waste! (Most of the time, that is: when I say,
"May I ask you a question?", I am literally asking for
permission.)
I'll happily take your word for it re: the intent of New Yorkers.[terror emoticon]
interrogationally challenged--I love it!