Drinker who fled without paying stuns bar owners by settling tab 15 years later
A man who legged it and didn’t pay his bill while out boozing with pals has astonished bar owners in Italy after paying up 15 years later.
Staff at the Simposio Bar in Trente opened an anonymous letter from the guilt-ridden drinker containing €30 (£26) in cash.
The drinker said he was so ashamed of the act he had been unable to go back to the bar since.
Manager Andrea Bosisio posted the letter on social media as an inspiration to other customers who might be tempted to do a bunk.
The letter said: ‘One Saturday evening 15 years ago I came to your restaurant with some friends and drank a few glasses of wine. Out of fun, we left without paying.
‘We have wronged you and us by becoming thieves.
‘That’s why I haven’t set foot in your house since that day.’
It continued: ‘Today I am here to apologise to you and try to make amends for what is owed.
‘I enclose quadruple the cost of that chalice and add a few more euros for each person in that group of friends, as a balance and a small token to also repair their mistake.
‘Now I will be able to return to your place with my head held high.’
Amazed Andrea said of the gesture: ‘A person who apologises and sends money after 15 years. You are wonderful.
‘It’s not for the money, but obviously it’s the gesture.
‘In 18 years of work, this is one of the best days we’ve ever had. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
‘We await you with open arms for a good glass and to thank you in person.’
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