Enrico Maso, translated into English by Ruth Stephens
Chapter 8 – A Big Problem
“And then the raspberry beer – what a terrific idea!” exclaims the director, putting down the newspaper.
Sitting at a table in Gianni’s courtyard, the two drink a toast. It’s September now, the temperature is more comfortable and the two men are enjoying the afternoon sun.
The latest column has been a great success; the readers have written enthusiastic comments asking for more.
“It really was a great idea of mine for you to do this report, don’t you think?”
“It certainly was,” agrees Gianni, smiling to himself.
“I had some doubts about the first few columns. All those negative reviews; I thought you were prejudiced against slowfood….”
“On the contrary, I’m all in favour of slowfood, but only when it’s authentic, not when it’s a pretence just to follow the trend.”
“I know, I know….well, I was right to give you another chance. Sales of the paper are up, thanks to your famous raspberries. But how did you find that festa?”
“I…” Gianni begins
“Don’t be modest, come on, tell me. Do you have an informer, someone who tipped you off? Or are you a detective as well as a gastronome?”
“It’s like this, Director. I shouldn’t tell you but in fact… Yes, it was real detective work, really following a trail… Nebo, come here!”
The old dog comes up to them, wagging his tail.
“The credit is all Nebo’s, which actually gives me a big problem….”
“What?” asks the director.
“Now I can’t call him ‘useless dog’ any more!” laughs Gianni, stroking his pet.