Coffeespoon

Among the valuable gifts received are a set of gold coffeespoons from Mr. and Mrs. Chauncey Depew, cousins of the bride, silver pepper cruets and bonnet-pins of diamond and moonstones from Mrs. Hegeman of New York aunt of the bride, and from Senator Leland Stanford a silver breakfast set.

In the number of the parties five were finally decided upon, while for the prizes which were to be first and second for gentlemen, first and second for ladies, it was judged best to have books—it seemed rather more dignified to play for “The Prince of India” and “Through Colonial Doorways” than for a coffeespoon or pair of candlesticks.

The reason more teaspoons are needed is because if one were having an afternoon tea it is necessary to have plenty of teaspoons, and even with the use of coffeespoons you would have but three dozen spoons, an insufficient supply for a number of guests.

The small talk is characterized by short contributions from all the participants, sometimes simultaneously, that can be seen as improvisations on themes that are immediately available and generated by the circumstances of the situation. Interviewers ask the applicants about their journeys, their ease in finding the place, there is talk about the number of coffeespoons to go round or about the weather.

“[…] You got any coffee?” / “No,” Funnybear says, “But I’ve got plenty of coffeespoons.” / “So?” / “So, I’ve been collecting plasticware for my solo show. I’ve got a garbage bag full of them now. I can measure out my life and yours with them.”