Love Is the Mainspring of Life: Wind It Fully Each Day

By George Evans

The Gold Pocket Watch: A grandfathers watch plays an important role in his granddaughters life.
Free Manure: Two bumbling, harmless ex-convicts are outsmarted by a woman who runs an orphanage. Earl and Four Socks: Against all odds, a horse trainer and a race horse regain their rightful places. Jeffs Dream: A young man goes West during the gold rush and befriends a raven that changes his life. A New Beginning: A mans taste of heaven becomes a life-changing experience.
The Shopping Cart: A retired couple guides a homeless woman to a path of success.
Daisy: A dog affects the lives of many. Water, Roots, and Diamonds: Good fortune, determination, and courage transform a dream into a reality. Giannis and Plato: Life of a giant sea turtle and a boy on a Greek island. Snow Angels: People from different backgrounds bond during their desperate hours. Love Knows no Boundaries: A hurricane separates an infant and his au pair from the family.
Hannos Song: A boys love and an elephants courage overcome all obstacles.
The Road to Friendship: Friendship between a white and a black man is tested under harsh conditions. Qanuk: A polar bear struggles with the consequences of global warming and mans greed. The Land Remains: A farmers discovery of an ancient treasure creates new challenges.
The Oak: A minister learns the true meaning of faith.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Feb 11, 2015
• ISBN: 9781496969460

George Evans

The author resides in Santa Rosa, Ca. Hes a retired educator who grew up in Gary, Indiana and he served in the Air Force during the Korean war. George received his degree from the University of Vermont and masters from the University of Colorado. Besides writing, he enjoys woodworking, painting and cooking. He has three sons, a daughter, six grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

On a crisp, autumn, Saturday afternoon in a typical upper middle class Chicago suburb, where maple trees lined both sides of the street, Michael was busy raking the colorful leaves into piles and then stuffing them into large bags. Just as he was about to finish with this annual chore, his wife, Tracy, approached him and reminded him that they had to pick up their ten year old daughter, Ann, at the ballet school. She had taken ballet lessons since she was seven and her teacher believed that she had great potential. Michael quickly changed his clothes and informed their fourteen year old son, Robert, to get ready.

Robert was late, as usual, and kept his parents waiting. He finally came running down the steps. While driving, the father suggested that they go for pizza after they picked up Ann. Robert especially liked that idea. The afternoon sun in a clear sky was at a low angle, making it extremely difficult to see when driving into its blinding glare. Michael turned the corner with the sun behind him. Suddenly, without warning and in a tragic instant, the driver of an old pickup truck, driving at a high speed and blinded by the sun, drove through a red light and slammed into the family Ford. The crushing impact left the parents dead inside a mangled sedan. Robert was seriously injured and unconscious. He was rushed to the hospital; but he failed to respond to an emergency procedure. He was pronounced dead before morning.

Thomas, semi-conscious, unaware of the blood all over his clothes from a deep gash on his forehead staggered out of his truck and collapsed in the middle of the street. Policemen were quick to arrive at the scene of the accident. They kept the curious onlookers at bay while the truck driver was placed in an ambulance and rushed to the emergency room. After three weeks he was released from the hospital and directly into the arms of the police. He was fortunate that he escaped from the horrific accident with only a two inch gash high on his forehead.

He was a tall handsome boy with an engaging personality and he was raised solely by a divorced mother. She had cleaned homes and office buildings for years. Thomas worked part time at the stock yards during his senior year to buy a pickup truck.

John, Ann’s maternal grandfather and a retired railroad conductor, had temporary custody of Ann until the court decided her permanent home. John had recently lost his wife to cancer and her medical expenses forced the sale of his home. He rented a small apartment and depended solely on his retirement income.

Months after the accident, Thomas appeared in court, escorted by a guard. During the court hearing, Thomas was charged with speeding, running a red light and vehicular manslaughter. The judge asked Thomas if he had anything to say before stating his sentence. Thomas turned and looked at John and Ann. In a remorseful voice, I’m very sorry. I hope that you’ll forgive me someday. John and Ann sadly looked at Thomas and they couldn’t help but notice the scar on his forehead. He then faced the judge. The judge spoke. Young man, even though you have had no prior convictions, I have no choice but to sentence you to eight years in prison.

Thomas’ fifty year old mother, Alice, wearing a plain house dress and a gray, worn overcoat, broke 2. down crying. She went up to embrace her son before he was taken away; but the guard wouldn’t allow it. Wiping away her tears with her hankie, she slowly walked out of the courtroom. The court-appointed attorney met her in the hallway and expressed his sincere regrets. She thanked him and took a cab to her place of work.

As Ann and her grandfather were walking down the courthouse steps, hand in hand, Ann asked, Grandpa, why did the policeman stop the mother from talking to her son?

I really don’t know. I guess it’s for safety reasons. It was a tragic accident and the young man seemed to be very nice.He was sincere when he asked us to forgive him. Forgiving him would be very difficult; but in the long run it would be the right thing to do

Ann understood what grandpa meant; but she knew she wasn’t ready or able to forgive.

While driving, John asked, Are you hungry?

Yes.

Good. So am I.

John stopped at a drive in for a hamburger, french fries and a milk shake on their way home. They rolled down the windows and enjoyed the fresh, clean air while they ate.

After a few months had passed, John decided that Ann was ready to meet her new family as ordered by the judge. Prior to the accident, Ann’s parents had arranged for the bank to act as the executor of their estate and to be held in trust until Ann became twenty one. Also, the bank was to pay a reasonable amount to John’s younger brother, Arthur, each month as long as she lived with them.

Ann, wearing a white hat and a pink dress under a white, wool coat, gazed out the cab window while John talked to the cab driver, who deftly maneuvered through the heavy traffic to the train terminal. John paid the driver, retrieved their suitcases and gave Ann hers. He held his granddaughter’s hand as they walked up to the large doors that opened into Chicago’s cavernous train terminal. Ann was in awe at the high ceiling and the mass of anxious people scurrying about in all directions while the loudspeakers blared arrivals and departures.

While John and Ann were sitting on a long, oak bench, John took out his gold pocket watch, attached to a gold chain, flipped open the cover and checked the time with the large master clock in the lobby. Soon after, the loudspeakers announced that their train would arrive in ten minutes.

Grandpa looked at his watch again and smiled. It’s on time.

Ann asked, Grandpa, why is it so important for the train to be on time?

Grandpa put the watch in his vest pocket and answered, Well, people depend on train schedules. Also, different trains use the same tracks and they have to take turns using them to avoid accidents. When I worked as a conductor for the railroads, I depended on this watch to see if the train was running on time. Sometimes the weather or an accident caused delays; but this old Hamilton just kept on ticking.

How old is it?

"I was twenty two years old when I started working for the railroad in 1913 and a retired railroad conductor gave it to me. It’s probably more than a hundred years old. He said something that I’ve never forgotten. As I get older, I’m beginning to understand what he meant.

Ann asked, What did he say?

This watch is not an ordinary watch. It’s a keeper of time and life. Be sure to wind it once a day.

Ann paused and then asked, How old are you?

I’m seventy years old and don’t worry. The doctor said I was in good shape for my age.

Wow! You don’t look that old.

Grandpa laughed. Keeping up with you keeps me young.

Over the loudspeakers, it was announced that it was time to board their train on track twenty five.

Honey, grab your suitcase. We have to hurry or we’ll miss the train.

John, portly and bald, grabbed his newspaper and suitcase. Ann carried her small red suitcase. He held Ann’s hand as they briskly walked through the lobby and up to the ramp where their train was waiting.

Ann’s eyes opened wide when she saw the large, bright yellow, sleek-looking diesel engine and the long line of passenger cars attached to it.

The conductor helped Ann up the portable steps. John paused and casually mentioned to the conductor,

You’re right on time.

The tall, thin, thirty-five year old conductor looked quite impressive in his pressed dark blue uniform, blue cap embossed with the company emblem, starched white shirt, black tie and his name, James, pinned to his breast pocket, smiled proudly, Yes. We usually are.

Ann and John walked down the carpeted aisle, looking for two empty seats side-by-side. Ann sat next to the window.

The conductor looked at his Hamilton and signaled the engineer that all passengers were on board. The train slowly moved out of the station and then it gradually picked up speed as soon as it left the terminal. James collected tickets as he walked down the aisle. He remembered John and Ann. I see that you’re going to Denver. Plenty of snow there; but it usually melts fast.

John responded, My younger brother invited us to spend Christmas with them.

James couldn’t help but wonder where Ann’s parents were but he kept his thoughts to himself. It’s always good to be with family during the holidays. You probably know that the weather forecast is to expect record low temperatures.

I know. Chicago winters can be darn cold.

Curious, James commented, I’m sure that traveling by train is different today.

Yes, it is. In my day, riding the rails was a very special experience. The club cars were more ornate and it was ride of luxury. People dressed to the nines, the food and service were upscale and strangers often became friends after a long train ride.

You’re right. It’s a fast-changing world filled with new gadgets and conveniences. Everybody is in a hurry. I’d better be on my way. Have a good trip.

Ann and John smiled with a thank you. Ann asked, Grandpa, my teacher said that Indians, train robbers and buffalo herds caused problems for trains. Is that true?

Yes, unfortunately, those things happened during the railroad’s early days.

Why did the Indians attack trains?

I guess it was because trains ran through their hunting grounds and land without their permission.

Oh, that’s not right.

John took out his pocket watch and wound it.

It’s a beautiful watch, admired Ann.

And it’s kept good time all of these years. I wear it close to my heart. I think it keeps my heart ticking. Someday it’ll be yours. I sometimes forget to wind it. You be sure to remind me.

I will, grandpa. She leaned over and kissed him on his soft, wrinkled cheek.

Ann smiled and yet she was saddened at the thought of someday losing her grandfather, who she loved dearly. She was entranced by the passing of vast fields of freshly fallen snow that sparkled in the sun’s bright light. Endless rows of tops of dry corn stalks and fence posts quickly passed by. Ann felt warm and secure as she viewed the slow-moving traffic on the icy freeway that ran parallel to the railroad tracks. John read the newspaper and shook his head in disgust when he read that President Johnson was sending more troops to Vietnam. Tired, John dozed off. Soon afterward, Ann fell asleep while she was resting her head on grandfather’s padded shoulder.

CHAPTER TWO

The train was moving at its normal speed in spite of the below freezing and windy conditions. The passenger cars were quiet except for the sound of the monotonous clickety-clack of the large steel wheels rolling over the sections of cold, brittle steel rails, fastened to heavy wooden beams that gave in slightly as tons of weight passed over them, providing a steady rhythm and a rocking motion that lulled passengers to sleep.

It was four in the morning when John gently moved Ann’s head to the side and he quietly got up to go to the bathroom. He had to try the next two cars before he found a vacant bathroom. The cold weather front moved in as predicted. The driving snow made it especially difficult for the engineer to see ahead.

ahead. Sweating with anxiety, the engineer tried several times to slow down the massive force before the engine hit the dangerous curve; but the controls didn’t respond. He made an emergency call to the command center and they weren’t able to remedy the problem. The best that they could offer was to be on standby alert in the event of an emergency.

The engine finally hit the dreaded icy curve. The engineer’s attempts to brake the engine were futile. It flew off the tracks, taking several of the cars with it. Fortunately, the ground was level. The engine and the cars finally slowed down as it came to a stop after it slammed into the deep banks of snow. A few of the cars had teetered but managed to stay upright. Others broke loose and the deep snow prevented them from going too far. Passengers were knocked about and a few suffered bruises and cuts. The conductor and all of the railroad employees did what they could do to help the injured and to keep them as warm as possible. The rescue teams in Denver were promptly notified.

The severe jolts threw Ann to the floor. It was fortunate for Ann and others to fall between the seats, protecting them from the shards of glass and other things flying in all directions. When the train finally came to a standstill Ann stood up, brushed off some of the dirt, put on her beret and looked for her grandfather. She went from car to car and called out his name several times; but there was no response. Tears ran down her cheeks as she searched each car to no avail.

James, the conductor, came up to her and asked what was wrong.

I can’t find my grandfather.

I’ll help you look.

They went through all of the cars; but there was no sign of him. They were returning back to the front when they heard what sounded like someone banging on a door.

The conductor said, Follow me. The banging noise became louder as they approached the door to the bathroom. The conductor yelled, Stand back. After a few hard kicks, the door popped open.

John, somewhat disheveled, but smiling, looked at Ann. Thank God you’re okay. That’s the first time I’ve been trapped in a bathroom during an accident and I’ve seen my share of them. He turned to the conductor, Thank you.

Ann reminded her grandfather to wind his watch. James thought that was an unusual thing to say during an emergency.

Curious, James asked, John, why is it so important to wind your watch?

Ann interceded and said, My grandfather’s watch has special powers. It keeps his heart ticking.

James readily accepted a child’s reasoning without saying a word. He had already informed the command center that the engineer was in a serious condition and he was advised that a helicopter was on its way. It’s a good thing that we’re close to the freeway. Busses will take us all to Denver."

John commented. That’s great. Thank you for your help.

While waiting, the passengers huddled in the cars to keep warm and were given blankets. The helicopter arrived shortly afterward and took the engineer to the hospital. It wasn’t long before a large truck pulled over to the side of the freeway and unloaded a snow plow. The driver wasted no time in pushing the deep snow aside, clearing a path to the wreckage. As soon as the walkway was finished, passengers bundled up as well as they could and filed out of the train. James helped each passenger down the steps. When it was John’s and Ann’s turn, John made a point to tell James what a good job he was doing. James thanked them and after the last passenger left the train, he made one last check to be sure that all passengers had vacated the train. As he was about to leave the last car he heard a whimper. He turned around and thoroughly searched the dark car with his flashlight. To his surprise, he saw a young girl sitting on the floor, crouched behind a seat, very much afraid, clutching a puppy. James eventually convinced her that it was safe to come out.

James smiled, What’s your name?

After a slight pause, Mary.

What’s your puppy’s name?

Corky.

He’s a cute little guy. How old is he?

He’s almost two months old. He likes you.

How can you tell?

He’s wagging his tail and licking your hand.

And how old are you?

I’m eight

I saw you when I was collecting tickets and I thought you were with the woman next to you.

She’s nice. But I came alone.

She put Corky in a blue canvas tote bag. James held Mary’s cold hand, carried the tote bag and her suitcase with his other hand. Before they left the train, James made sure that Mary’s coat was buttoned and she had on her mittens.

The slightly injured leaned on others as they slowly walked toward the bus. Everyone kept their heads down, butting against the freezing winds and the driving snow. Tired and cold, passengers’ red faces expressed relief as they boarded the warm busses. The injured were helped into ambulances.

While James and Mary were sitting together, James asked Mary, Where are you going?

I’m going to live with my aunt, Joan. My mother is in the hospital. She’s been sick a long time.

James didn’t want pry anymore and inquired, Do you know where your aunt lives?

Mary pulled out a piece of paper and gave it to James. It had her aunt’s address and phone number.

He reassured Mary that she would soon be with her aunt.

After a few hours their bus pulled into the terminal. Scores of friends and relatives were anxiously waiting for them. Hugs, kisses and gratitude were prevalent in the terminal.

CHAPTER THREE

While James and Mary were searching for her aunt, they came across John and Ann, sitting on a bench. They joined them. John inquired, Who’s the cute young girl?

This is Mary and her dog Corky. She’s going to live with her aunt while her mother’s in the hospital.

Ann petted Corky and talked to Mary while John and James shared their experiences as conductors.

While John and James were exchanging phone numbers and addresses, John’s brother, Arthur, entered the terminal and approached John.

Arthur smiled and embraced his older brother. We were all so worried when we heard about the train wreck. Thank God, you’re all okay.

We were very lucky. It’s unusual that only the engineer was seriously injured

John called Ann over to meet her uncle Arthur. Mary and Corky also came along. John introduced Ann and James. Then, James introduced Mary and Corky. After a few minutes of friendly exchanges, Arthur drove John and Ann to his home.

James and Mary sat and waited for Mary’s aunt Joan; but there was no sign of her. James decided to call her.

Joan answered the phone and she was relieved to know that Mary was okay. She apologized for not being at the terminal since she had to work overtime. She gave James directions to her apartment. Since she lived only a few blocks from the terminal, they walked. The address was on a tarnished brass plaque attached to the right of the entrance of an old red brick, five story apartment building with several carports in need of repair and paint.

They entered a lobby that was littered with old newspaper ads. One of the walls had rows of tarnished brass-plated mail boxes. They took the elevator to the fifth floor and looked for her apartment number in a dimly lit hallway. James knocked on the door. A short, thirty year old, attractive brunette, wearing slacks and a loose wool sweater opened the door. Joan smiled as James introduced himself. She thanked him for bringing Ann. Joan then turned her attention to Mary, smiling and embracing her.

I’m so pleased that you’re here and safe. I’m sorry that your mother is ill. Joan noticed Corky and said, What a cute puppy! What’s his name?

Corky, My mother got Corky at the animal rescue center. Is it okay if he stays?"

Yes, of course. We’re allowed to have only one pet. James, would you like to stay for dinner?

I’d be happy to.

You both must be tired. Please have a seat.

The apartment was furnished with mismatched, old furniture. James sank deep into a sofa that had lost its spring action. The apartment faced a busy street and the windows only had pull-down worn shades and old lace curtains.

While Mary was in the bathroom, Joan told James about Mary’s mother’s illness.

Holding back her tears, My older sister has terminal cancer and Mary’s father was killed in the war. I love my niece very much; but I can’t afford to properly care for her working as a waitress. She’ll often be alone in the apartment when I work the night shift and my car is always in the repair shop. I don’t know what to do.

James was taken back by this sad revelation and he could only say that he was sorry. After a short visit, James thanked Joan for dinner and said goodbye to Mary and Corky.

While Joan was clearing the table she was pleasantly surprised to find a 20 dollar bill under the place mat. What a nice man, she thought to herself. While Joan was helping Mary unpack, she found an envelope addressed to her. It contained a court order naming Joan as the legal guardian and a check for $5,000 attached to a letter.

Dear Sis,

I want to thank you for agreeing to take care of Mary. You’re the only family I have left and I know that you’ll give her the love and care she deserves. Mary is a good girl and a joy to have around. She’s a lot like you when you were her age. My funeral expenses have been paid and you’ll soon receive a package with family pictures, jewelry and personal items that you can use. I often think of the good times we had together. Corky means a great deal to her and I hope that you understand. Give my sweet Mary a kiss. I wish that I could have been around to see her grow up to be a happy, wonderful person.

Love,

Cathy

Tears rolled down Joan’s cheeks as she pressed her sister’s last words against her chest Wiping her tears, Joan turned to Mary, Honey, the storm has passed. Let’s take Corky for a walk before it gets dark.

CHAPTER FOUR

Arthur drove onto the circular driveway of a well kept home, with a three-car garage and a manicured lawn bordered by shrubs and trees in an upper middle class neighborhood. His wife, Gloria, smiling, came out to greet John and his granddaughter.So you’re Ann. You look just like your picture. We’re very pleased to have you live with us.

Confused, Ann didn’t know what to say. Arthur interrupted Ann’s thoughts by showing John and Ann to their rooms. Jean, their fourteen year old daughter, was looking out her opened bedroom window and frowned at what she saw and heard. Ann set her suitcase on the bed and sat on the edge of bed, wondering about what Gloria said. She went to her grandfather’s room and knocked on his door.

Come in. Well, Ann. Finished unpacking?

No, I haven’t. Grandpa, I would like to ask you a question.

What is it?

Grampa, will I be living here all of the time?

"My dear Ann. I wanted to tell you about it on the train; but the accident changed all that. I’m very sorry that you found out this way. In spite of my desire to keep you, the judge thought it would be in your best interest to live here. My brother is an architect and his wife is a stay-at-home mom. They’re very nice people.

But I want to live with you,

John looked at her, paused and said, I would like nothing better. But I’m too old. I wish that I were younger. Give it a chance and in time you’ll feel at home.

Okay, I’ll try.

Before you go, there’s another thing that I want you to tell you.

What’s that?

We meet all types of people in life and there are some people you like and others that you just can’t get along with no matter how hard you try. Just don’t allow those people to make you feel less about yourself. Don’t let them ruin your nice smile or change your happy disposition. Try to see the humor in life whenever possible. Pursue happiness the best you know how and remember it’s okay to ask for help. Continue taking ballet lessons since you love it and you’re good at it. Above all, attending church with your parents instilled faith in you and it’s always present as long as you believe in it. Another thing to keep in mind is that our family is watching over us.

Smiling, Thanks Grampa. That’s helpful.

Ann, I have one more thought I need to tell you. Sometimes, close friends you trust will say or do things that hurt; but keep in mind that it’s not usually on purpose.

She gave her grandfather a hug then went to her room. Ann finished unpacking. In tears, she placed a portrait of her family on the dresser.

While having dinner with the family, Gloria sat at the opposite end of Arthur. Jean finally made an appearance and she sat opposite of Ann, who was sitting next to her grandfather.

Ann smiled. Hi

Jean responded with a forced smile, Hi.

That was the extent of their conversation.

John and Ann shared their unusual experiences on the train. Throughout dinner, it became apparent by Jean’s facial expressions and silence that she resented the attention her parents were giving to poor little Ann. Other subjects, the weather and other mundane issues were also discussed. Jean remained quiet throughout dinner even though her parents tried to involve her by asking her about gymnastics and school. She excused herself early even though her mother made her favorite dessert, apple pie. John had sensed that Jean didn’t readily accept Ann into the family and he was naturally concerned.

When Ann went upstairs to her room, John brought up Jean’s attitude.

Arthur responded, John, I’ll talk to her about it.

Gloria agreed. We have to do more to help Jean and Ann adjust to the changes.

John appreciated their comments. Let’s hope they become friends. Thank you for the delicious dinner. By the way. Ann was taking ballet lessons and she should continue them.

Gloria responded, We’ll see to it that she continues her lessons.

John thanked them for dinner and excused himself. He was preoccupied with Ann’s future and it took him longer than usual to fall asleep.

The following Saturday morning Arthur knocked on Jean’s bedroom door and he then opened it. Good morning, Honey. Glad that you’re awake. I think you know why I’m here. You seemed quite upset at dinner.

Why does she have to live here?

You know that she lost her parents and brother in an auto accident. Your mother and I offered to take her in. She’s a good kid and Ann wants to be your friend. We thought that you would like to have a little sister.

I’m busy with my friends, gymnastics and school. I don’t have time for her.

I understand that; but it wouldn’t hurt to be nice to her. We all have to make adjustments.

Jean looked at the floor and reluctantly said, I’ll try.

Arthur hugged her. That’s my girl. Come down for breakfast. Satisfied and hopeful, Arthur left her room and went to the kitchen.

John and Ann were talking with Gloria when Arthur entered the kitchen. Within a few minutes, Jean entered the kitchen and asked.

What’s for breakfast?

Pancakes and bacon, your favorite, Gloria answered as she flipped over the first batch.

The kitchen table was already set. Arthur served milk to Ann and Jean. Gloria had already made a pot of coffee.

Dear, your pancakes are especially good today, different recipe?

Thanks. I added a secret ingredient and I can’t tell you.

John smiled. It was pointless to pursue the question. I bet the girls like your pancakes too.

Both Ann and Jean smiled with approval.

After breakfast, Ann offered to help with the dishes. Not to be outdone, Jean also offered to help without being coaxed. Mother was somewhat surprised and pleased.

Later that Sunday afternoon, Jean rode her bike to a nearby girlfriend’s house. John took Ann to the movies. Arthur and Gloria enjoyed their rare alone time.

CHAPTER FIVE

James finally decided to call Joan a week later on a Saturday afternoon.

Hello, is this Mary? This is James, the conductor. How are you and how’s your puppy?

Hi. I’m fine and so is Corky. My aunt will be home from work at five.

Thank you. I’ll call back.

Mary answered the phone a little past five. Hi, this is James again.

I know. My aunt just called and she’s having car trouble again.

James asked for Joan’s phone number at work and called. But she wasn’t there. The manager said that Joan’s car had to be towed and she called a cab.

Moments after Joan arrived home, there was a knock on the door. To her surprise, it was James carrying a bag filled with cartons of Chinese food.

Hello. Sorry to hear about your car. I thought that since you’ve had a long day, I brought over dinner. I hope you like Chinese food.

Surprised and impressed, It’s our favorite. James, that was very thoughtful of you. Let’s go into the kitchen.

Mary helped set the table and the three talked non-stop while they ate. Corky, wagging his tail, sat by Mary, hoping for a treat.

After dinner, they cleaned the kitchen and went to the living room. During their conversation, Joan asked how Ann was doing in her new home.

I called Ann’s grandfather, a couple of days ago and he said things could be better. He hoped that Ann and his brother’s daughter would get along better soon.

Mary often asks about Ann and she would like to see her.

That’s a good idea. I’ll call John tomorrow morning.

James left shortly after dinner since he had to work the following day.

James called John’s home phone shortly after breakfast. John was pleased to hear from him and asked how he was doing.

Well, John. Do you recall meeting Mary and her puppy?

Yes, I do. A lovely child.

Well, I’m interested in her aunt and so far we seem to get along rather well.

Why that’s wonderful, James.

Thanks. How are you doing?

Well, my watch is still ticking and I hope that Ann and my brother’s daughter are getting along.

John, what do you think of my calling them and arrange for Ann and Mary to see each other?

Why, that’s a great idea. I’m sure that Ann will be very happy to see Mary and her puppy again. I’ll call my brother and let them know what you have in mind.

"Thanks, John.

CHAPTER SIX

Jean was quite involved with her school, friends and gymnastics. She had little time for anything else. Ann was lonely and missed her grandfather. Jean’s parents tried to make Ann feel part of the family; but Jean’s attitude towards Ann created a tense household at times, igniting minor family arguments after Ann went to her room. She often cried herself to sleep.

On a late Friday afternoon, Jean answered the phone.

Hello, this is James, a friend of Ann’s grandfather and I would like to talk to your father or mother.

Dad, it’s for you.

Who is it?

It’s James, a friend of Ann’s grandfather.

Jean gave the phone to her father. Hello James. How are you?

I’m fine, thank you. Did your brother John mention anything about dropping by to pick up Ann?

Yes, he did. I remember you were with a little girl and a puppy at the terminal. John called about what you had in mind.

Then is it okay to take Ann to the park with us?

That would be fine. In fact, Ann was quite excited when I told her about Mary and her puppy stopping by.

Would it be okay to come by tomorrow at about ten?

She’ll be ready.

Ann was so excited about seeing Mary and Corky again. She was up earlier than usual.

After breakfast, Ann went to her room and sat on the edge of the bed, anxiously looking out her bedroom window, waiting. A little after ten, a shiny, brown Chevy sedan entered the driveway. Ann quickly put on her coat, grabbed her cap and ran down the stairs. She opened the front door, greeted Joan, James, Mary and Corky. Arthur and Gloria both came to the door to meet them.

After they left, Arthur said to Gloria, Nice people. Ann will be fine.

I think so too. I need to call the ballet school to enroll Ann.

James drove to a drive-in for hamburgers, french fries and milk shakes to go. The sun had brightened the day, making it warm enough to eat at a park bench. After lunch, the girls threw a ball several times for Corky to retrieve. Later, the two girls swung high on the swings while James and Joan talked.

How’s it going? asked James.

As well as it can be expected. I sometimes hear her crying in her bedroom. Corky has been good for her. He keeps her company while I’m at work. She’s adjusting to her new school. The school bus stop is within walking distance. I’ve arranged to have a conference with her teacher.

It’ll take time for both of the girls to adjust to their new homes. They’re both great kids.

Joan smiled, I agree. Mary and Corky have filled an empty space in my life.

Ann’s grandfather told me that Ann loves ballet. I wonder if Mary would be interested.

It wouldn’t do any good. I couldn’t afford the lessons.

If it’s okay with you, I’d be happy to pay for them if she’s interested.

That’s very generous of you. I’ll ask her about taking ballet lessons tonight.

It was late in the afternoon when James dropped off Ann and assured her that they would do it again soon. James drove Joan and Mary home. Then he rushed off to work the afternoon shift.

After removing their coats, Joan made hot chocolate. While sitting at the kitchen table, Joan asked, Honey, would you like to take ballet lessons with Ann?

My mother was going to enroll me at the ballet school; but then she got sick.

So, are you still interested in ballet?

Yes. It would be fun to go with Ann.

I’ll call Gloria about Ann’s ballet schedule. We’ll arrange for both of you to be in the same class.

I hope it’s soon, smiled Mary.

Within a week Joan and Gloria coordinated the ballet schedule for Ann and Mary. Gloria offered to drive Mary and Ann to the ballet classes. She sat and watched the girls do a rigorous exercise routine demanded by the teacher. Gloria was impressed observing Mary and Ann going through the drills. After class, two tired friends sat in the back, on the quiet side, while Gloria drove Mary home. Home again, Ann immediately went to her bedroom to rest.

Home again, Gloria went to the kitchen to prepare dinner. Jean was sitting at the kitchen table munching on a cookie with a glass of milk.

I watched Ann and her friend doing their exercises. They’re as difficult as yours at the gym.

Jean shook her head,I don’t think so, mom.

Well, you ought to try it sometime. I wonder if ballet lessons would help improve your posture and balance on the balance beam. What do you think?

Jean frowned, said nothing and she went to her room. Gloria shook her head and continued making dinner.

During dinner, Gloria surprised Ann and Jean by announcing, Your father and I decided to convert one of the garages into an exercise room for both of you. We’ve ordered mats, a ballet bar and a balance beam. The equipment will be here in about two weeks.

Ann smiled with excitement. Thank you. I’ll really use it a lot.

Jean hesitated with a response. Thanks.

Arthur added, Your friends are welcome to use the equipment.

My friend Mary would like that.

Jean remained quiet.

While Gloria and Arthur were watching the late night show, Jean, in her pajamas, came into the family room.

Her father asked, Can’t sleep?

Her mother sensed that something was on her mind by the look on her face.

In a halting, troubled voice, Dad, why didn’t you buy the balance beam and mats before Ann came?

After a long pause, Arthur answered, Honey, I understand your resentment and we’re sorry if we hurt your feelings. Buying a home that needed repairs and upgrades drained our bank account. And mother quit her job so she could be home with you. Now that we’ve caught up on our finances, we can afford to buy the equipment.

Jean didn’t know what to say. She went to her room.

Gloria looked at Arthur, Honey, you failed to mention that we receive money from Ann’s trust.

I know. I just didn’t feel that the timing was right.

You’re probably right. I hope that she’s old enough to understand. She’s going through a difficult stage.

I guess girls are different than boys.

Gloria smiled, Aren’t you glad we are?

CHAPTER SEVEN

It was an exciting Saturday for everyone, except for Jean, when the equipment had arrived. Within a few hours, the balance beam and ballet bar were assembled by Arthur, ready for use. Ann changed into her exercise clothes, did some warm-exercises and then used the bar for stretching her legs and arms. Jean went to her girlfriend’s home.

Whenever Ann wasn’t in the garage working out, Jean did her routine on the balance beam. She resisted the temptation to use the exercise bar; even though her gymnastics teacher recommended it. While Jean was practicing on the balance beam after school, Ann entered the garage. Ann watched and remained quiet. Jean got off the beam and she was about to leave when Ann asked, Jean, would it be okay if I tried it?

Sure; but be careful.

Ann got on the beam and tried to