I’m not sure if I’ve ever posted this story here, but it’s an interesting one anyway:
A bochur [now a Mashgiach in a prominent Yeshiva; I can’t imagine he wants his name publicized] in Gateshead was invited to eat at the Rosh Yeshiva’s house for Friday night. He walked with the Rosh Yeshiva to his house, and sees the table is set for four. They start singing “Sholoim Aleichem”, etc. Then in walks the Rebitzen – and a Gateshead seminary girl. Both of them managed to hide their surprise; but hey – who questions the Rosh Yeshiva?
The meal started – albeit awkwardly – and began to move along. After the soup, the Rosh Yeshiva made eye contact with the Rebitzen and gave a little nod; they both stood up and walked out of the room, shutting the door behind them.
Leaving the two of them alone.
In the Rosh Yeshiva’s house.
For an hour.
Apparently, the Rosh Yeshiva and the Rebitzen had decided this was a perfect shidduch, and decided that the best way to throw it on the two was by forcing them to meet each other.
That has got to be the most awkward date in the world. I can just imagine – the first five minutes, neither of them realizing they are supposed to be talking to each other. So she’s looking at the paintings on the walls, at the silver cabinet – anywhere but in his direction. He’s humming to himself, tapping nervously on the table – thinking; should I take out a sefer and stare at that? Will that look bad?
How does the conversation eventually start, when the Rosh Yeshiva may walk in any second?
To cut not-such-a-long-story short, they didn’t get married.
(Heard and verified from the son of the protagonist)