Responsa על הושע 2:27

In a new town it is forbidden to introduce the custom of giving presents to Gentile servants on Purim. R. Ephraim applied to this custom the verse: "and I multiplied unto her silver and gold, which they used for Baal (Hos. 2, 10)." However, in places where the custom has already been well rooted, it should not be discontinued lest it disturb peaceful relations with the Gentile neighbors.
SOURCES: L. 184; Hag. Maim. to Megillah 2, 5; Orchot Hayyim II, p. 236, misconstrued by editor.