my l4-year-old son, john, and i spotted the coat at the same time in a second-hand clothing store. it stood out among big and old coats. it had beautiful tailoring and an unbelievable price: $28. i looked at my son and we both said nothing, but john’s eyes shone. dark, woolen topcoats were popular with teenage boys, but they could cost several hundred dollars new. this coat was even better. john tried it on and turned from side to side, eyeing himself in the mirror. the fit was perfect.