The doll

Jake took the doll from his pocket, and showed it to Mani.

"Do you like this?" he asked.

Mani took the doll gently from Jake's hand, and looked at it carefully. Then he nodded.

"This is acceptable", he said.

Mani stood, and walked to the other end of the table. He took a bronze lid of a dish, and offered the contents of the plate to Jake. Jake walked over, and saw two silver coins on it. It was a poor exchange for the doll. Jake looked back at Mani, about to protest, but changed his mind when he saw the look in the man's eyes.

"Take them", Mani said.

"Thank you so much!" Jake replied, trying to keep as much sarcasm out of his voice as he could while he picked up the coins.

"Now, leave us!" Mani commanded as he returned to he seat.

Jake left the room. He looked back as he closed the door, and saw Mani stroking the doll thoughtfully.