THAT OLD TEN-DOLLAR ROUTINE

Overheard this gem at a kebab joint on 14th today as I was in line waiting for food. An old black woman had walked in and went straight to the woman running the register. I thought at first she was picking up a “to go” order but found out all is not what it seems as she proceeded to wander over to the guy making my food, who may have been slightly aware of whatever she wanted when she first came in.

Old Woman: Do you know when he’ll be back?

Guy Making My Food: No I don’t. What are you waiting for?

OW: Will he be back later?

GMMF: No.

OW: Can I wait here?

GMMF: Sure, you can wait here.

OW: So you don’t know when he’ll be back?

GMMF (obviously perturbed): No.

OW: Do you remember? You remember. I was in here yesterday and the owner gave me tea and I said I didn’t order any tea and he said come back tomorrow and I’ll give you ten dollars. Do you remember? You were there.

GMMF (not answering and by now not paying attention)

OW: Do you remember? (pause) Well I must be in the wrong place.

GMMF: Yes. I think you have the wrong place.

She leaves and I ask the waiter who’s been moving around in the background the whole time what that was all about. He tells me he has no idea but for the last week someone else has been coming in every day and asking for $3,000.