Over the hedge

She received two pastries when she asked the bakery for only one.

Our family of four was at the train station in Frankfurt. Since we didn't have enough change to buy our tickets from the automated machines, I ran into a bakery to purchase a few pastries and get change. I pointed to four different items and said, "One of these, and one of these, etc." They handed me a large bag and my change. I was puzzled when I peeked into the bag because I saw two of everything. My husband laughingly accused me of not being able to resist temptation. Later a German friend explained that when I pointed and used my index finger, I was telling them I wanted two of each. If I wanted only one, I should have held up my thumb!

Elaine Dent

Manitou Springs, Colo.

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