We had decided to skip lunch and go to an early supper at one of the island’s best restaurants. We arrived shortly after 6:00 pm when dinner service began. As we approached the entrance, I straightened the collar of Carter’s shirt; it was Friday night in high season and we had no reservation.

We entered. Russ said good evening, gave a brilliant smile, and politely requested a table for four. A garden table would be nice. With a sad shake of her head, and the slightest of hesitations, the hostess informed us that the restaurant was fully booked. She was terribly sorry.

Without missing a beat, Russ replied: “Ahh, but we are Americans so we eat quickly.”

She nodded and smiled. “In that case,” she said, “you have a table.”

We had a lovely dinner in the garden.