From time to time I am approached by a woman who I assume - and happy to be corrected - is probably a gypsy. Sometimes the woman might wish to show me something in a purse and other times has something in her hand and sometimes they can be rather forthright ie walking towards you in such a away that you can't help but notice them. Trying to avoid a confrontation or conversation I simply say no thank you, but every time they mutter something unintelligible before wandering off to find another victim.

The mutterings are usually curses for not buying their goods. Some of these curses are intimidating and people prone to suspicious beliefs give in to avoid being cursed.

A gypsy once cursed my mother, telling her she would never be a grandmother. - I have two children, or do I? The ex-Mrs Rebbonk may have some explaining to do!