In a Strange Country

When my wife and I moved to Princeton in 1970 we met Einstein’s devoted former secretary, Helen Dukas. She recounted a story of the Einsteins moving to Princeton. They were told that there is this strange American holiday called “Halloween” when children come around demanding “Trick or Treat.” Einstein was enchanted and bought apples and candies to give out. He stood waiting by the door on the special night — but no one came. Apparently parents had said: “Oh, that is Prof. Einstein’s house. You mustn’t disturb him!” I do hope the story is true.