We cross into Portsmouth NH and there is a sign that says “Old Books”. The car automatically stops and turns into a parking lot for an old building that looks like it has seen better times. There is a car, two pickups and an old bus on the parking lot. They all are filled (I mean that literally, to the gills) with books. An “Open” sign is on the door, but it looks like no one is there. I try the door and it opens. We walk into space that is about 90% books and 10% air. An old man, short, bald and heavy appears and asks us what we are looking for. It takes me aback and I say “biography” for want of something better. He is not in the mood for small talk and says simply “Aisle 14”.

I go to Aisle 14 and it is pitch black. I see no light switch. I call back and ask him if he can turn on the lights. He does. This is what I see

The books on the shelf are perfectly alphabetical and there are many 19th century books, some of which must be quite rare, along with more contemporary ones. But the space between the shelves and the enormous stacks of books in back of you is maybe 16 inches. Standing and taking a book out requires dexterity, and the fear that the ten foot stacks of books behind you might fall if you make one false move is overwhelming. Each book, by the way, is priced individually and too high.

Because of the difficulty in navigating the space, we decide to leave. I thank him as we get to the door. His response? “I thought you came to buy books…..I even turned the light on for you….Why do you come if you aren’t buying anything?….You are just wasting my time…Get out! You are tresspassing.”

We left, of course, amazed. How does he sell any books at all? What will happen to the books if he drops dead? The books are virtually impossible to get now, but there are many that should be protected and not trashed.

Here is our goodbye image. Google Antiquarian Books Portsmouth NH and look at the various customer reviews if you want entertainment. But so sad.

Meanwhile, food. First, our lunches. Then, my dinner.

These come from Loretta’s in Newburyport MA.

This comes from Riccardis in New Bedford MA.

Today? The Whaling Museum. Did you know, because of whaling in the early 19th century,  New Bedford was the wealthiest city in the country?