Chocolates

Once some people were visiting Chekhov. While they made remarks about his genius the Master fidgeted. Finally he said, 'Do you like chocolates?' They were astonished, and silent. He repeated the question, whereupon one lady plucked up her courage and murmured shyly, 'Yes.' 'Tell me,' he said, leaning forward, light glinting from his spectacles, 'what kind? The light, sweet chocolate or the dark, bitter kind?' The conversation became general They spoke of cherry centers, of almonds and Brazil nuts. Losing their inhibitions they interrupted one another. For people may not know what they think about politics in the Balkans, or the vexed question of men and women, but everyone has a definite opinion about the flavor of shredded coconut. Finally someone spoke of chocolates filled with liqueur, and everyone, even the author of Uncle Vanya, was at a loss for words. As they were leaving he stood by the door and took their hands. In the coach returning to Petersburg they agreed that it had been a most unusual conversation.