He understood the difference between a problem that could wait and one that would leave a customer stranded on the highway.

He took pride in charging people for work they actually needed.

When I entered, he was struggling with a rusted bolt on an old green lawnmower.

His faded red shop rag hung from one pocket.

“You’re late,” he said.

“I didn’t make an appointment.”

“Then you’re very late.”

I laughed.