I realise that you were probably not being intentionaly patronising PE but it is somewhat of an ironic statement - Saying that you feel sorry for people because they are being patronised is, to me, one of the great oxymorons of our language:-) Apologies if my rebuff came over as offensive to you but just substitute the word 'Poles' with 'disabled' and I think you will see what I mean.

Cheers

DeG