Nicholas A. Mallory

Two words: colonial silver.

A new feature for the shop. There's an interesting hallmark on the set of flatware, a complete set, definitely not American, but at least there's a trail of papers and receipts to follow for authenticity. This is why I love my job.

I think I'll go enjoy a celebratory cigarette now. I deserve it.

( Jane )

Christmas was much better than I had expected it to be.

( Jane )

Does the holiday season make anybody else feel as anxious as it makes me feel?

I hate it when young newlyweds stumble into my shop. It's a waste of time, showing my pieces to couples who don't care about the unique significance of my stock, especially when I know that there's a miniscule chance that they'll walk out with a purchase. Don't call me an ageist, the last thing that should be on any newlywed's mind is fine furniture.

Beware of the man who will not engage in idle conversation; he is planning to steal your walking stick or water your stock.
--William Emerson

That's quite funny to read, isn't it?

( Ms. Dupree )

I detest interior decorators. They come into my shop, looking for vintage pieces, squawking over the prices of my artifacts because the trendy boutique a few blocks away sells 'antiques' at more reasonable prices. Believe me, my prices are incredibly reasonable for the items I feature in my store. Each is carefully researched by myself for authenticity, and when possible, I compile chains of ownership from the item's history. Do they care whether this desk once served the fifth governor of New York? No, because the stain is simply out of style. Style placed above history and authenticity, and I hardly have the time to explain why the goods I offer are superior to any mass-marketed home decor. They simply are.

( Nicolas A. Mallory )