Level – #Elementary
A Laptop Problem
Bill’s laptop stopped working. He looked in the phone book under Computer Repair. He called a repair place near his apartment. Byron answered the phone. Bill said, “My laptop has crashed. Can you retrieve the files? If so, how much will it cost?” Byron said, “I charge $125 an hour. I can probably retrieve the files in an hour. If I can’t, I will call you.” The conversation lasted a few more minutes. Bill was impressed. Byron was very polite. He seemed friendly. He seemed trustworthy. A little later, Bill took his computer to Byron’s office. Byron’s wife was his secretary. She was very friendly. All three talked about Bill’s computer, the weather, the Yankees, and the “good old days.” They’re a really nice couple, Bill thought as he left Byron’s office. I think I have two new friends. The next morning, Bill called Byron. “How’s it going?” Bill asked.
“It’s coming along,” said Byron. “Your files are a real mess. I’ve spent 3.5 hours on your computer, but I haven’t retrieved everything.” “Excuse me?” Bill said. “What do you mean, 3.5 hours!? How much money is that? That’s $375!” Byron said, “Well, actually, it’s $437.50.” “$437.50!?” said Bill. “Is this a joke? I can buy a brand new computer for $437.50! You’re pulling my leg, right? We agreed to one hour. Then you were supposed to call me. Why didn’t you call me?” “It was late at night,” Byron said. “I didn’t want to wake you. Look, it sounds like you’re upset. I’ll take you off the clock right now. I’ll retrieve all your files, but just charge you for the first 3.5 hours. I still have about two hours to go. You’ll be getting those two hours for free. That’ll save you $250! How’s that for a deal?”
