Direct Wire

"Direct Wire" by Clee Garson is a comedic and satirical short story, likely written during World War II, that examines the absurdities of patriotism, gambling, and communication amid unusual circumstances. The narrative centers around Mort Robbins and Mike Harrigan, two bookmakers operating out of a cigar store, who unexpectedly find themselves caught up in a series of bizarre phone calls from someone claiming to be the Angel Gabriel demanding to speak with Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini. As they navigate this strange situation while trying to maintain their gambling business, Mort and Mike, who aren't particularly patriotic, are hilariously lead to enlisting in the army due to the ridiculous phone calls, and the story culminates in a twist that reveals that the phone had been disconnected all along, highlighting the complete ridiculousness of their experience and Garson's comedic talent.