A writer wrote into Miss Snark how to delicately let agents know you're no dummy without coming across as a jerk:

ahhh...the fine line between stalking and being well prepared.

Herewith, things you say that will make any agent (but particularly solo practicitoners) phone up the nearest RentAThug service and dispatch Shyster Snark for a restraining order:

1. "You looked lovely in your pink frock today"

2. "Killer Yapp is just decorative, right? He wouldn't actually bite anyone who came to your door...would he?"

3. "I googled you and we went to the same day school. Do you remember Sister Sadistic from fifth grade?"

4. "My mother's cousin's boyfriend's car mechanic is Munch Mancini, and I notice you read her books."

5. "We live on the same block...are you that crazy girl with the poodle?"

More here.