Pantry Stories
Memories shared by our guests
The Stolen Mug, 1971
In 2013, an anonymous sender confessed to a crime committed at the Pantry 42 years earlier.
The confession arrived with $20. The stolen property did not.
By an Unknown Author
The writer had enjoyed many meals at the Pantry between 1968 and 1971. After their final dinner, they removed a coffee cup. The confession was more direct: they “stole it actually.” The mug subsequently traveled with them through several states and two foreign countries, becoming a treasured possession they continued to use every day. More than four decades later, their conscience finally caught up with them.
The letter arrived with a $20 bill as belated payment, along with thanks for the many enjoyable hours spent at the Pantry. The short ribs, they added, were their favorite. The debt was settled. The mug remained at large.
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May 11, 2013
Hello, Original Pantry:
Had many enjoyable meals at the Pantry ca. 1968-1971. After my final dinner in '71 I removed a coffee cup -- stole it actually. It has been with me ever since in several states and two foreign countries. I use it every day and it has become a favorite possession.
However, having a conscience, my action has troubled me ever since I removed it. Please accept the attached $20 as a belated payment... And also please accept my thanks for the enjoyable hours I spent there. (The short ribs were my favorite!!)
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