The Lexicographer's Rules

"It had no date, no reference to anything suspicious. There were so many things that stood out indicating a scam."

—New York Times. Frank Flynn, a professor of organizational behavior at the Columbia University business school, sent out 240 fake letters to upscale Manhattan restaurants, complaining of food poisoning. The bogus letters were part of a study to determine how businesses respond to consumer complaints. Two letters of apology have been sent to the restaurants concerned, but that wasn't necessary for some restarateurs to smell something fishy. Jean-Claude Baker, the owner of Chez Josephine, figured it out: "I am an old fox," Mr. Baker explained in a thick French accent.'

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