BOOK! A No-name Generic Product

THE BEGGAR

It was early in the evening and I was taking my usual walk through the park, passing all the usual bums and beggars that gather there, when suddenly someone new caught my eye. Me was certainly like no regular bum. I had to look twice, to make sure that my glasses weren't lying to me.

This beggar had built a big stand, similar to the type you see in movies that the mayors stand on when they are campaigning.

On the top, in large red flashing letters, read the caption:

MATTHEW BOBNOSE: DISABILITY IMPERSONATOR.

Out in front was placed a classy pop-top hat lined with silk. I walked around his stand a couple of times and finally inquired about his unique profession as a disability impersonator.

He assured me that this truly was his trade. "Yes sir, I do them all. Would you care to see a sample?" He asked.

I agreed to view a small bit, mostly out of curiosity To my surprise, the man began wailing and limping all over his stage. "This is my Leprosy act, sir. Pretty authentic, don't you think?"

I now felt obligated to drop some money into his hat as I'm sure was the plan. I left him 35 cents and quickly moved on leaving no further comment.

As I passed by the others, I could still hear him yelling in the distance; "WAIT! You haven't seen my Deaf Mute ... it's a killer. You'll love it!!"