The year is 1962. The time is approximately 5:30 in the afternoon. Mr. Teale, a well adjusted, introverted bachelor, pours himself a glass of lemonade and settles in for a quick afternoon nap in his perfectly manicured back yard.  As he starts to nod off, he is unexpectedly interrupted by the intriguing and persuasive Mrs. Deremont, an encyclopedia saleswoman with an interesting pitch. Out of politeness and curiosity, Mr. Teale surrenders his next hour of his time to Mrs. Deremont, which turns out to be one of the most poignant hours of his life.

The Exquisite Hour is a charming...