The Carpet from Bagdad

George P. A. Jones is the unremarkable yet oddly magnetic vice‑president of a bustling metropolitan rug firm. He carries a secret split within himself – a steady, sensible side that keeps the business humming, and a vivid, restless imagination that longs for far‑off deserts and daring exploits. The opening chapters trace his modest life among shop counters and city crowds, revealing a shy, blue‑eyed young man whose confidence falters at the sight of lace and parasols, even as he can swindle a sheik with ease.

When an exotic carpet from Baghdad arrives, it awakens the wilder half of George’s personality, drawing him into a series of amusing encounters with colorful strangers, mysterious letters, and a puzzling theft. The story balances gentle humor with sly commentary on identity, offering listeners a charming portrait of a man who must decide whether to let his inner dreamer take the lead or remain safely within the bounds of everyday respectability.