I’m trying to track down a short story that I taught several years ago in an ESOL class. It’s a non-fictional narrative about a woman living in Washington DC, who decides to call every embassy in Washington and ask what their respective countries say that is analogous to the American English “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”
Does this ring any bells?
Not this one, I take it:
During the 4th of July parade in a small western town a group of cowboys was bringing its herd of cows to the cattle lot on the other side of the hamlet. Unfortunately, to get there they had to cross Main Street, where the high school band was just starting its performance. The Parade Marshall ran up to stop them from crossing the street. “You can’t drive those cows through our orchestra!” he cried.
The oldest cowboy leaned back and said, “Whalll… what would it be worth to you to let us go through?”
The Marshall thought for a moment. “It would have to be pretty good, something extra special.”
The cowpoke reached into his saddlebag and handed the Marshall a small packet. “Lissen. In here is a bunch of marijuanna suppositories. Getcha high as a kite an’ no one will know. Is it a deal?” The Marshall nodded, ordered the band to stop and let the cows across the thoroughfare.
Proving that a herd in the band is worth boo in the tush.