Reef and the dangers of extravagance (329 words)

[Raphael Saltwood]

https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/vintage-ritz-hotel-london-bellhop-cap-163936152
Ritz hotel cylindrical hat


Mike Jing wrote a nice compliment & went on to say:

I'm still a bit puzzled though as to the source of possible offense. Which part of this could be viewed as provocation?

—- none of Reef’s response. As he carefully intends.

Dipple has laid this all out as if it’s an actual business plan. The term “bunco-steerer” imho arose in Reef’s mind rather than in conversation (it’s not inside quotation marks)

So for Reef to call it a scam would break the illusion. Why would Dipple not take kindly to this?

A) Since Dipple is Stray’s friend, she may be beholden to him, in which case Reef’s aid is owed.

B) Dipple is trying out his pitch on Reef, and would consider Reef rude if he didn’t go along

C) Reef also doesn’t want Dipple to think he’s a total sucker, (“sign me on for the roundup in Nevada, sell me a horse and gear and shares in the company”* etc) so “ever thus in the world of affairs” is a non-committal way of noting, and accepting, the dodgy nature of the scheme

D) Reef’s moral flexibility in the cause of earning extra bread for luxury also plays a part in his reluctance to give offense

*do they have Amway in China?


Also, in which sense is the word "quizzical" used here?

—- probably a little bit of both.

 2. Given to joking or bantering; playful, witty; (also) characterized by mockery, facetious; sardonic, satirical.

 3. Chiefly of a person's expression: questioning, enquiring; indicating mild or amused puzzlement.





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