In a hotel on the shores of Lake Erie, in a hotel too far from shore to see the lake, “The Rights of the Innkeeper” were posted on the inside of each door. We were traveling west, and most of our belongings were traveling with us, in our car. We’d brought into the hotel that night only the things we’d need, and those we feared would freeze. A dark, huge hotel room — empty closets, massive dresser — with two toothbrushes, a trombone, and a violin.
“The Rights of the Innkeeper” describe a relationship — between the “Innkeeper” and the “Person” — through baggage in three sizes: “trunk,” “valise,” and “bundle.” In case of fire, loss, or flood, the Innkeeper is financially liable for these bags and their contents, for a maximum of $150 per trunk, $50 per valise, and $10 per bundle. Conversely, if the Person is unable to foot their bill, the Innkeeper may seize their baggage and sell it at public auction. The auction must be advertised in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the inn is located. Public Sale! Rock-Bottom Prices! The belt, socks, and dental floss of a traveler!
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