Saturday, May 27, 2006

Memorial Stone

Joe's will provided $ 30,000 for an elaborate funeral. As the
last guests departed the affair, his wife, Helen, turned to her
oldest friend. "Well, I'm sure Joe would be pleased," she said.
"I'm sure you're right," replied Jody, who lowered her voice
and leaned in close. "How much did this really cost?" "All of
it," said Helen. "Thirty thousand." "No!" Jody exclaimed. "I
mean, it was very nice, but $ 30,000?" Helen answered. "The
funeral was $ 6,500. I donated $ 500 to the church. The wake,
food and drinks were another $ 500. The rest went for the
memorial stone." Jody computed quickly. "$22,500 for a memorial
stone? My God, how big is it?!" "Two and a half carats."