Our Aromatic Uncle

Fragrant crates from faraway ports—teak and sandalwood, teas and spices—bathe a Boston home in an unforgettable perfume and a family’s adoration for the generous “Uncle David” they’ve never met. When the elusive traveler cables that he’s coming to stay, expectations soar and relatives rally—until a tender, startling confession reframes decades of devotion. In this elegant, gently comic, and deeply humane classic, Henry Cuyler Bunner spins a twist that reveals the true shape of love, loyalty, and quiet heroism. Andrew Ryan’s warm, nuanced narration savors every sensory detail—from the hush of curtained parlors to the bustle of distant Chinese ports—bringing to life the formidable Aunt Lucretia, the devoted couple, and the humble visitor whose secret makes him the real hero of the tale. Perfect for fans of classic short fiction with heart, wit, and a satisfying sting in the tail, this performance captures Bunner’s graceful prose and the lingering sweetness of a story that proves generosity can perfume a lifetime.