METROGNOME

A metrognome is an elf-like or troll-like person of Swiss descent who collects tickets in the Paris Metro. The metrognome is a small, ugly Swiss immigrant in Paris, France, currently employed as a toilet attendant. Being unable to afford a taxi when he first arrived, he started riding Le Metropolitain wherever he went. Eventually he came to love his frequent rides so much he got a part-time job filling in as a ticket taker on weekends. (Individual Métro ticket is 8FF; packet of 10 tickets (a Carnet) is slightly more reasonable. Cost of RER tickets depends on distance traveled. Within central Paris cost is the same as Métro tickets, and the same ticket is also valid on both systems.) Example: Watch out when you step away from the pissoir at Le Crazy Horse Saloon. Their metrognome just about pounces on you--little twerp must be desperate for tips to support his habit.