All the Same if You Think So.
It is an awkward thing to be absent-minded. The story is told of a Philadelphia gentleman who discovered this to his cost. It so happened the other day that the dining room of the club which he frequents was quite full, when a man who chanced to know his particular failing came in very hungry. The waiter told the new comer there was no room at present. Spy-absent-minded fellow comfortably seated and reading the newspaper, a brilliant idea struck the hungry man. ' Has Mr A. dined yet?' he questioned. 'No, sir,' replied the waiter. ' Well, never mind, take him his bill and tell him he has had his dinner. The waiter hesitated a moment, and then appreoiating the situation went over to Mr A. and handed him his bill. 'What is this for?' quoth the poor fellow. 'For your dinner, sir.' 'My dinner — ah ! Have I really had it ? ' ' Yes, Sir,' rejoined the waiter, in all innocence. 'Dear me, I had an idea I was waiting for it. What a curious mistake.' And with a contemplative smile Mr A. sauntered out of the room, leaving his table for the genius who had profited by his absentmiudedness.
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https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/OW18820325.2.69.5
Bibliographic details
Otago Witness, Issue 1583, 25 March 1882, Page 29
Word Count
203All the Same if You Think So. Otago Witness, Issue 1583, 25 March 1882, Page 29
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