Misunderstanding

    "Rankin residence."

    "Is this Mr. Joe Rankin?" the operator asked.

    "Yes, it is."

    "Will you accept charges on a call from Mrs. Rankin?"

    "I'm sorry, but she's out of town."

    "Sir, do you want to speak to Mrs. Rankin?"

    "I told you she's out of town."  There was an edge to his voice.

    "Ma'am," the operator sighed as she got back to me, "do you still want to try this call?"

    "Yes, I need to let my husband know I'm stuck in a snow storm and still at O'Hare Airport.  I won't be home when expected."

    "Sir," the operator began again."

    "I told you..."

    "Sir, are you Mr. Joe Rankin?"

    "Yes."

    "Would you like to talk to your wife?"

    "Well, yes, but..."

    "Sir, I have her on the other end of the line."

    "Why didn't you say so to begin with?"