Over the years I have learned to recognise the nudges, whispers, smiles, nods, hand over the mouth, giggles, etc., that come before the question about the tartan arrives. Even Mrs Jock can now spot the signs and tips me off on what is about to arrive. I don't mind people asking and I do think that it does take a certain amount of courage for a visitor to our country to ask a complete stranger about their attire. Often a quick reply of the Clan suffices and we part company in a blink of an eye. Sometimes, if I have time---------and/or the girl/s are pretty(its usually the girls that ask)------- then a conversation of more than a few minutes can take place and more often than not, a growd will gather and a broader conversation about, tartan, kilts, Scotland, Texas, Japan, Australia, Holland, whisky, haggis will develop! That is fine if there is time, but I find the trick of keeping the conversation short, is to smile and keep moving whilst answering the question.