@Mr. Keoki, @eagle, I agree, a great line, esp. for plump Higgins.
Foiled Again is an amazing story, amazing. I admire how well it was conceived. Many many things can be unpacked about it. Here’s just a few:
1) the relationship between TM and Higgins has greatly evolved yet remains tenuous.
2) Both characters represent the best from their cultures.
3) Higgins must not have had much romantic experience for apparently how he holds a torch for an old flame—who btw still uses him.
4) Higgins is probably a failure in the eyes of those within his social circle in England.
Maybe interesting of all, I dare say, is a special attribute of American culture: the “just because” favor. TM retrieves Higgins’ fencing foil genuinely for no other reason but generosity; whereas Higgins—from a more formal society—thinks favors require something in return. This was not a small favor by TM because I am guessing that particular foil has high assessed value. (Yes, in the end TM's gesture seems strategic, but we see his asking for a favor is for pure humor, a joke to play on Higgins.)
TM displays immense character—how he puts up with abuse from Higgins yet recognizes it can’t be helped. He has deep concern for Higgins throughout despite it’s Higgins’ private affair. Oppositely Higgins displays great character as well for his adhering to what he considers as honor.
I was really glad that the son didn't do it because it became more interesting that way.
