The Open Window

a terrible, extremely sad event

The fire was such a­ tragedy—many families lost their homes.

found or returned after being lost or missing

Simon was so relieved when his wallet was recovered safely by a friendly stranger.

wild dogs that live near cities and towns

My grandma sometimes leaves food out for the stray pariah dogs that roam the neighborhood.  

something that someone is good at

Making tall, colorful, and highly decorated cakes is the baker’s specialty!

Niece: So you know nothing about my aunt?

Mr. Nuttel: Only the name and address my sister gave me.

Niece: Well . . . her great tragedy happened just three years ago.

You may wonder why we keep that window open on an October afternoon.

Mr. Nuttel: It is quite warm for the time of year. But what does that have to do with her tragedy?

Niece: Three years ago, her husband and two brothers went hunting.

Niece: While walking to their favorite hunting spot . . .

. . . all three sank into the swamp.

Their bodies were never recovered.

Niece: My poor aunt always thinks they will come back someday . . .

. . . followed by that little brown spaniel.

Her husband would be carrying his brown bag. Her youngest brother would be singing, “Bertie, why do you bound . . .”

Aunt Mae: Mr. Nuttel! I am sorry for my lateness.

Aunt Mae: I hope you don’t mind the open window. My husband and brothers will be home any minute. 

They’re out hunting, so they’ll make a fine mess on the carpets.

Mr. Nuttel (thinking): Horrible! I must change the subject . . .

Mr. Nuttel: My doctors say I need complete rest . . . no mental excitement . . .

Aunt Mae: Oh?

Aunt Mae: Here they are at last!

Just in time for tea . . .

Woman: Goodness!

Man: Here now! 

Aunt Mae's husband: We're home, dear. Who bolted out the door just now? 

Aunt Mae: A most extraordinary man!

He could only talk about his illnesses—then dashed off without a word!

One would think he had seen a ghost!

Niece: I expect it was the spaniel.

Niece: He told me he’s terrified of dogs.

He was once hunted into a cemetery by a pack of pariah dogs.

He had to spend the night in a newly dug grave . . .

Niece: . . . while the creatures snarled, grinned, and foamed just above him.

Aunt Mae's husband: That’s enough to turn anyone into a nervous wreck!

Aunt Mae: How awful!

Niece (thinking): He said nothing of the sort, but fortunately . . .

. . . making people sound more interesting is my specialty.