Articles

Hello cousin. I came to stay!

Category: Entertainment Published on Friday, 19 October 2012 10:46 Written by Gwendolyn Baines

Late one afternoon last summer, a man came to my house asking the whereabouts of a family by the name of Jones. I told him my maiden name was Jones.

He then told me he was a lost relative. He said his family was in the van parked in my driveway. He explained he had just discovered he was to inherit some of my grandparents’ wealth.

Gwendolyn, my grandfather left behind a will that consisted of four houses mortgage-free and more than 100 acres of land. He refused to move his van and I had to resort to calling the police.

He left and we have not heard anything from him.

This is the problem: My younger sister is trying to locate him.

She says I should have given him a chance to verify by showing legal documents that he indeed was our kin.

We are a family of dark skin and black hair coarse in texture. The man had fair skin with blonde hair and blue eyes. Did I do right by sending him away?—Jenny

Dear Jenny:

Of course, you did. We are living in dangerous times.

With the Internet people are able to research your family history and secure your bank accounts and other vital information. With this information they can wipe out your life’s savings, cause deadly harm to you and move on. I commend you for your actions.

Jenny, think about it. When people are on hard times and their luck is down, they will claim kin with anyone who has more.

It is your grandfather’s wealth that is drawing attention. The next person appearing at your door claiming to be lost kin, say, “Nice to meet you.—Now get lost.”

(Got a problem, email Gwen at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or write to her at P.O. Box 10066, Raleigh, N.C. 27605-0066. To receive a reply, send a self-addressed stamped envelope .Visit her website at: www.gwen­baines.com.)