I think the espresso is free because it's being given. The reason for saying "free" in relation to the puppy is to emphasize that as far as the giver is concerned, the kid can keep the puppy - the kid is not just being allowed to hold the puppy or anything like that. The default for giving an espresso is "I don't want it back", whereas the default for giving a puppy might be unclear.
no subject
Date: 2005-11-19 02:17 am (UTC)