Telephone Conversation

"The price seemed reasonable,location Indifferent.The landlady swore she lived Off premises. Nothing remained But self confession. “Madam,” I warned, “I hate a wasted journey–I am African.”"

"Silence. Silenced transmission of Pressurised good-breeding. Voice, when it came,HOW DARK ?’… I had not misheard… ‘ARE YOU LIGHT OR VERY DARK ?’ Button B. Button A. Stench"

"Of rancid breath of public hide-and-speak.Pushed dumbfounded to beg simplification."

"Considerate she was, varying the emphasis ARE YOU DARK? OR VERY LIGHT?’ Revelation came.“down in my passport.” Silence for spectroscopic Flight of fancy, till truthfulness changed her accent"

"Hard on the mouthpiece.‘WHAT’S THAT?’ conceding Are a peroxide blonde. Friction, caused"

"Foolishly madam—by sitting down, has turned My bottom raven black—One moment madam!’—sensing Her receiver rearing on the thunderclap About my ears—‘Madam,’ I pleaded, ‘wouldn’t you rather See for yourself ?’"