I must admit, I’m slightly hesitant to sell the appliance in general considering how precious it has been to me over the years. It’s really the only thing my mother has ever given me. Not to mention, it’s something my grandmother touted as a magical instrument when I was little. I used to foolishly think it could grant wishes.

I guess we all have things from our childhood we eventually have to let go of.

Please send me your mailing address after you’ve sent the payment and we’ll go from there.

Again, thank you so much for your thoughtfulness. It means so much to me.

Best regards,

Agnes

EMAIL FROM ZOE CROSS

Date: 05/29/2000

Time: 3:13 p.m.

From: Zoe Cross <crushedmarigolds@[omitted].com>

To: Agnes Petrella <agnes_in_wonderland_76@[omitted].com>

Subject: Re: Antique Apple Peeler with Vibrant History for Sale

Dear Agnes,

I am overjoyed to know you’re willing to sell me the apple peeler, especially with the requested expedited shipping at no additional cost. I was hesitant – perhaps nervous as well – to send you my initial email as I worried I wouldn’t be an adequate candidate for your item, but I’m so delighted to hear you’re receptive to my offer.

I plan to send the money to your bank tomorrow afternoon when the funds appear in my account after I make the necessary transfer.

I hope you’ll excuse my momentary forwardness with you, but I’m curious to know why you’re selling the apple peeler in the first place if it holds such profound emotional value to you. I have to admit – I’m hesitant to make the purchase of the item if you’re on the fence about selling.

I would hate to think I’m robbing you of some dearly cherished, irreplaceable artifact.

Best,

Zoe

EMAIL FROM AGNES PETRELLA

Date: 05/30/2000

Time: 8:32 a.m.

From: Agnes Petrella <agnes_in_wonderland_76@[omitted].com>

To: Zoe Cross <crushedmarigolds@[omitted].com>

Subject: Re: Antique Apple Peeler with Vibrant History for Sale

Zoe,

I sincerely appreciate your thoughtfulness during this difficult time. I don’t consider your email to be too forward at all, considering how vulnerable I made myself during my original online post. I wholeheartedly understand your concern to purchase now, especially after I’ve expressed how precious the appliance was – and still is – to me and my family.

The truth is this apple peeler is one of the few things I have left of my grandmother. She passed away when I was a teenager and had always joked that this apple peeler was to serve as my dowry. When I moved out on my own – into my first apartment – it was one of the few things my mother could afford to give me as a housewarming present. Something I had treasured for so many years – a reminder of the generous and beautiful spirit my grandmother once was.