In the late 50’s, I worked the midnight shift in downtown Detroit. It was not uncommon when coming into work at night or getting out in the morning to be approached and asked “Can you spare a dime for a cup of coffee?” One morning a guy staggered up to me and asked “Can you give me a dollar, I need a drink bad?” Believe me, he really looked like he was in need. He got $5 for being truthful.
$5.00 in the late fifties?
A most generous gift.
I was earning $100.00 a week working full time at a fairly decent job.
Do the math.
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