Short story of man (pastor?) who comes for dinner but is trapped by politeness

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Short story of man (pastor?) who comes for dinner but is trapped by politeness

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1jonny1992
Mar 4, 2016, 11:53 pm

I recall a short story from my school days of a fellow, possibly a pastor, who is invited for dinner. The story revolves around the polite phrase "won't you just...", which the hosts feel compelled to offer, and the guest is compelled not to refuse. He winds up dying in the house, I think... Its been a long time. I think it was made into a short film at one time also. Any help finding this would be much appreciated!

Thanks, J

2bluepiano
Mar 6, 2016, 4:12 pm

Sorry, I've not a clue but you've aroused my curiosity; I hope you'll come back here with the title & author if you do find what it is.

3weener
Edited: Mar 6, 2016, 7:57 pm

This premise reminded me of this Kids in the Hall sketch, but upon rewatching it, it kind of has the opposite plot.

4Nina514
Mar 7, 2016, 2:41 am

Almost sounds like The Thornbirds....

5thorold
Mar 7, 2016, 5:44 am

I was thinking about The man who came to dinner, but that's a guest who's trapped by a broken leg, not politeness.

6jonny1992
Mar 7, 2016, 9:09 pm

Thanks for the replies. I was thinking it might be a Stephen Leacock story, or even a Mark Twain, but I searched their catalogues and couldn't find it. It's left me baffled. But it was sort of Leacock-esque in it's feel, as I recall. Funny, but poignant.

7jonny1992
Mar 12, 2016, 10:02 am

Found! It was Leacock. "The Awful Fate of Melpomenus Jones." I was looking for this to help explain our condo's policy on the use of visitor parking spaces.

8Petroglyph
Mar 12, 2016, 12:08 pm

Thanks for coming back to let us know! Enjoy reconnecting with that story!