I found him
in the dining-room, playing on an accordion, while his wife, who
had answered my knock at the door, was busy in the kitchen
He scarcely knew me. To pave the way to the object of my visit I
began by inquiring about designing lessons. As teaching was not
in his line, we soon passed to other topics related to the cloak
trade. I found him a poor talker and a very uninteresting
companion. He answered mostly in monosyllables, or with mute
gestures, often accompanied by his child-like grin or by a
perplexed stare of his bluish eyes
Gradually I gave the conversation a more personal turn. When,
somewhat flushed, I finally hinted at my plan, he shrank with an
air of confusion
At this juncture his wife made her appearance, followed by her
eight-year-old boy. Chaikin looked relieved
"I hear you are talking business," she said, summarily taking
possession of the situation. "What is it all about?"
Completely taken aback by her domineering manner, I sought
escape in embarrassed banter.
"You have scared me so," I said, "I can't speak.
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