"[Shortening, I think,]" Autor says, and inquires of his mother, who nods. She retrieves another tin canister for Oswin to use. Autor turns to her. "[Do you need a recipe?]"

The tea kettle whistles, and Erna fills three mugs with the near-boiling water. After draping the tea balls and their chains in the mugs, she sets the kettle aside.

She disappears into the pantry and reappears with five eggplants, a collection of mushrooms, and a can of breadcrumbs carried in her apron. "::Tell her not to worry,::" Erna says, smiling.

"[She says not to worry,]" Autor says, resisting the urge to offer his friend a hug.