Back in my AGT/TELUS days, one of my best friends was a gruff, grumpy expatriate Brit, Steve White. Steve is an intellegent, interesting guy. An associate engineer, he excelled at his job and he also happened to play guitar like the proverbial "ringin' bell".
Quick witted and always ready with a joke, Steve's humor can be a little raw for some, but he's a charmer nontheless.
One particular recollection captures Steve White perfectly. We were having post-work drinks with a few guys when a pal of ours, Jerry McKenna, announced he was out of money and headed home. Steve offerd to lend Jerry $20 and his offer was readily accepted.
A few days, then a few weeks and finally a couple of months passed and Jerry still hadn't repaid Steve. Jerry's a good man and to this day I'm certain he simply forgot. We'd see Jerry almost every day and Steve would complain and grumble to me every time.
One day Steve and I were on the "up" escalator to work when we spotted Jerry coming down. "There's that cheap son-of-a...", muttered Steve. "Look", I said. "He's obviously forgotten. Just ask him for the money but for God's sake, show a little class. Be subtle."
"Subtle. Got it" mumbled Steve. Seeing us coming, Jerry flashed his usual smile and called out, "Hey guys, how's it goin'?"
"Top of the marnin' to ya, Jer'" responded Steve. "WHERE'S ME FOOKIN' MONEY?"
An ashen-faced Jerry fumbled with his wallet as we passed on the escalator. Steve grinned wickedly, subtle to the end.
