Culture at the table has therefore created little helpers that are always at hand with a good sprinkling and patiently wait at the side of the plate for the diners' attention to turn to them – tirelessly, pleasantly, unless someone forgot to refill them. They are the last representatives of a previously dutiful breed of butlers and cooks, chambermaids and boys that never disappointed the trust placed in them and made life more pleasant – in the golden age when upright work without the imposition of collective bargaining and time-and-a-half was still affordable. Mr. Salt and Mrs. Pepper perhaps put us in mind of their eager colleagues, they are quite allowed to show character and make us smile with their endearing idiosyncrasies – the main thing is that we like to take them in our hand – and that frequently. Because that is their only payment, a tip would not impress them. Always at your service. |