Twists of Match-Making

A Comedy Unveiled

The first chapter of this story

At Christie’s sister’s house, things got a bit funny when the broker ended up hanging onto the window while he chatted away, seemingly oblivious. It was like a scene from a comedy, unintentionally turning the broker’s serious attempts into a bit of a show for the kids.

To end the awkward situation, Christie handed the broker a ten-rupee note. He reluctantly took it, which marked the start of his awkward move into the veranda, hoping to involve Christie’s aunt in the marriage proposal affair.

Once inside, the broker tried to compose himself, pocketed the little money he got, and then pulled out a photo, showing it to Christie’s aunt. He confidently claimed, “This is the perfect match for your nephew — a family with a lot of land, an educated girl who’s also a teacher.”

Christie’s teenage nephew and niece, his sister’s children, observed the unfolding spectacle with amusement, treating it like a comedy show. Giggles exchanged between them as they found entertainment in the ongoing drama.

Christie’s aunt carefully looked at the photo, allowing the broker to continue talking. She had tried before to find a wife for her nephew, but all her efforts had failed. Still, undeterred, she kept pushing the idea whenever she talked to Christie, praising the virtues of different potential brides. These conversations often happened near Christie’s closed door, which hindered her matrimonial hopes. Christie never opened the door and ignored his aunt’s rantings.

Christie’s aunt saw hope in this new proposal despite past setbacks, thinking it might finally be a breakthrough in her persistent efforts to arrange her nephew’s marriage. After going into the kitchen, she prepared a cup of tea for the broker. The broker took a seat on the veranda. Upon Christie’s aunt’s return with the tea, he retrieved sheets of paper from an envelope — documents outlining the details: education, date of birth, time of birth, parents’ names, and caste, each presented with a touch of exaggeration.

“Teaching at a high school, she’s thirty but appears no more than twenty-five. Her parents are open to conducting the marriage at any time and in any church of your choice. If you wish to meet her, I can visit their home. All the necessary details, including the address and names, are right here on these papers,” he said, gulping down the tea.

The broker settled comfortably, easing himself into the potential customer’s home. Christie’s nephew was seated in the corner of the veranda. Beside him was his mother, Christie’s sister. As small talk ensued, the broker sought to establish rapport with the boy’s mother, recognising her as a potential ally in his matchmaking plans.

He glanced at the boy without flinching and commented, “Why is this lad so thin? Something might be amiss. Look at his shoulder blades. He looks like a bat from behind. Perhaps troubled dreams disturb his nights, keeping him awake. It’s not healthy for young boys to be so slender. I believe I have the remedy for you: Welpenela leaves. I’ll bring them next time I come. You’ll need to boil them and give them to this young fellow.” The boy grimaced at this unexpected remark, aware of what the broker insinuated. A young lad felt awkward matters like wet dreams in front of his mother. The broker was keen on earning favour with his potential customer’s sister.

The broker wasn’t content to stop there. He pressed on, discussing a potential match for the young lad — a girl still in school who, according to the broker, could be a suitable match. The broker seemed well aware that the young lad stood to inherit properties and was studying in a private school.

This revelation startled the boy. His mother promptly intervened, closing the discussion with a firm statement, “This boy is still studying. He can marry when he is ready.” The broker fell silent, realising that his pursuit of commissions clashed with the family’s priorities.

When the marriage broker departed, twirling his umbrella, it brought delight not only to Christie but also to the young man.

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