Strange Solace

Why are you laughing? I asked.

Because we have made the most wonderful batch of hats! They replied.

They do look lovely, I said.

It’s not about looks, the said. It’s what they do!

Keep the sun off your head? I was trying to be jovial.

Well yes, said the younger one.

But other things too, said the one with the beard.

What sort of thing? I asked.

Well, this one, the older man said, will give you the ability to speak and understand any language! 

When you’re wearing it, of course, said the younger one.  And this one will give you the power to move things with your mind.

Telekinesis. I said. The older man just looked at me. 

This one will allow you to shape shift into any form!

You did look rather dashing as a bear in a hat.

How much are they? I asked. I always fancied myself as a bear in a hat.

Oh, you don’t pay with money, the older one laughed.

We’ve got a hat for that, the younger one said, tears of laughter spooling down his cheeks.

No, the price must be something more interesting, said the older one.

Like what? I asked

Make us an offer, the younger one said.

Copyright: image by Hulton Picture Co. Used here for creative, non-commercial purposes. Commercial postcard of Hat Workers in Luton. Copyright IRIS Publishing Ltd.