Richard and Jennifer Cook

Outer characterization

The short story "We gotta number there" by Rayda Jacobs is told mostly from the perspectives of Richard and Jennifer Cook, the rich white couple who hire the Mbulus. Their ages are not revealed, but readers can assume that they are middle-aged, as the story suggests they have a grown-up daughter named Sandra (l. 125). 

Their good economic situation is shown through their material possessions: they own a large property in South Africa and a Mercedes car (l. 1). Richard also owns an antiques shop (ll. 60-61). Jennifer Cook works as a “broker in a real estate office” (l. 52). They also have enough money to loan to the Mbulus: “I’ll guarantee the loan” (l. 129). They also can easily spare furniture to help the Mbulus start a new life in their new home (ll. 125-126).

Inner characterization

Richard and Jennifer's inner characterization helps the reader have a better perspective of the events. Initially, Richard is described as having a short temper: “Seeing a tall African man pacing on the stoep balling and unballing his fists gave him a start.” (ll. 2-3). He is angered that some strangers have trespassed on his property, but he is soon made calmer by his wife, who is the voice of reason: “ ‘Don’t lose it, Rick. Just hear what they want.’ ” (l....