the sword
July 27, 2008There it was, just set down on top of the big desk by someone in front of me who was less interested. The garage sale was small, the seller motivated.
Me: How much?
Seller: $5.
Me: Sold.
Seller (hesitates): But I can only sell it to an adult.
Me: You are doubting that I’m an adult?
Laughter from nearby browsers.
Seller (embarrassed): Well, I meant, it can’t go to a household with small kids (indicates sharp point of sword).
Me: It’s okay. No small kids.
Seller: Then it’s yours.
Me: A little history?
Seller: It’s from either Thailand or Vietnam, belonged to a relative.
It’s heavy with a curving blade, and will be a great photo prop.
