Get what you're saying Ruthanne, but he didn't present himself as an ass until halfway through the conversation.
I'm normally a fairly outgoing, upbeat engaging person, so, gave him the benefit of the doubt, until he did himself in. That was that.
I'm a strong, smart girl, I didn't feel threatened physically (even though he said stupid things) in the setting I was in - and if I had felt that way I know what to do. Nobody is messing with me, (unless I want them too) if they know what's good for them.
As I stated in the above post, I have been followed, the one time (above) in a mall, and twice in stores, and those instances, there was no benefit of the doubt, I sought help. My instincts let me know the difference.