She jumped as if she had been stuck with an oyster fork.

When she hesitated he added, "Without your guidance I might use my oyster fork to eat my salad; just think of the scandal I could cause."

He could identify the fish knives and the oyster forks and the jelly spoons, and dozens of other tiny special items, of which there were a countless number in a dozen different ornate patterns.

Some high-toned folks use those dinky little oyster forks but the fingers are far speedier and more efficient.

On this day, she made a major score, an intact service of ornate Thai-made silver, complete with oyster forks, marrow knives and a lining of hot-pink velvet - a steal at $115.

At his shop are souvenir spoons starting at $20 and oyster forks, with open-work handles showing a child fishing, at $75 each.

The oyster fork is the only fork that goes on the right side of the plate," he said, "placed in the bowl of the soup spoon.

Mrs. Philips has spent a lifetime accumulating treasures that include oyster forks and Royal Worcester bone china service for 12.

Meanwhile, the guests were making inroads into the buffet supper, and when the story was finished, Professor Hedwin wagged an oyster fork about the group.

Place settings for 40, including oyster forks and marmalade spoons?