Hi Michael, Yes, I know that sentence needed a comma to
clarify; however, what rule, if any, exists for cases where no
potential misreading exists, as in
 
We took poles, bait and hats on our fishing trip.
 
I have read that putting a comma after "bait" is more "formal,"
and thus more "correct."  I'm trying to find out if others
agree with this rule of thumb.
 
Carole
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