The Friendly Butler

John Breckenridge

You know how it is; the party has finished, youve put your girl on the last bus home after a close and passionate goodnight kiss but your mind and body are buzzing. Surely someones still partying - its only 1:00 am for Gods sake!

On high alert you walk out of George Square, along St. Vincent Street and into Renfield Street, heading back up to your flat. You reach into your pocket for a cigarette. Good - she hasnt smoked them all. Pulling one out of the packet you reach into your pocket for matches. Damn, damn and damn. No matches and youre dying for a smoke. You look around and theres a smartly dressed chap, smoking a cigarette and walking down the other side of the street. You cross over, and waving your unlit cigarette, you stop him and ask for a light. ... (continues)