Pete Enlarging the foundation

By C. R. MacBean

Pete Enlarging the foundation by C. R. MacBean

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• Language: English
• Publisher: Covenant Books, Inc.
• Release date: Mar 30, 2021
• ISBN: 9781644688038

Book preview

Chapter 1

Summer 1938

Hey, what’s your name? The question came from a tow-headed boy seated in a rowboat next to the dock.

Pete. What’s yours?

Tim. My old man runs the place. You with the picnic over there? Tim motioned over his shoulder.

Naw, my ma has a cabin here.

Oh, my old man told me about your folks.

Ain’t my folks, my ma has the cabin!

What about your dad?

Ain’t got a dad.

Pa told me your ma’s married.

Yeah, she’s married, but he ain’t my dad!

I never heard such a thing. You want to take a boat ride?

Pete thought a moment before answering. I don’t think my ma would like that.

She’d never know. We can row out and see if there are any fish, Tim replied. You ever been out in a boat like this?

Never been in a boat on a lake. Sat in one at High Lake, but it wasn’t in the water.

Well, come on down. I’ll take you out in a boat that’s in the water. It’ll be fun!

Pete hesitated a couple of minutes, pushed himself up, and got on the ladder leading down to the water. Tim pushed the boat against the dock and waited for Pete to climb in.

You can sit in the front. Tim pointed to the forward bench.

When Pete was settled, Tim used an oar, shoved the boat away from the dock, and rowed toward the center of the lake. Pete watched the prow cut through the lily pads.

The boat scraped over a submerged log.

The noise frightened two leopard frogs.

They jumped into the water from a nearby log. A mud turtle followed. A black water snake surfaced near the boat and swam away; it’s head above water.

Did you see that? Pete exclaimed. That’s the biggest snake I ever saw!

Tim laughed. That’s nothing. You should see those under the pavilion. They crawl up on the planks and wait for fish. Sometimes they’ll drop in your boat. Last week, a guy from Detroit was fishing, and a black snake dropped into his boat. The poor guy jumped out of the boat and found himself swimming with about a dozen snakes!

I hope none of them get in this boat. I can’t swim.

Tim chuckled. Don’t worry. If one comes close, I’ll hit him with an oar!

How far out we gonna go? Pete asked.

Not much further. We’re about in the middle of the lake now. We’ll let the boat drift and watch for the garpike that live out here.

What’s a garpike?

A big fish with a long nose, some folks call them swordfish.

Ever catch one? Pete asked.

Not me! It might pull me out of the boat. They aren’t good to eat anyway. I fish for bluegills and perch.

Back in the cabin, Marie finished making baloney sandwiches. She looked out the window but didn’t see Pete. She looked for him by the picnic tables; seeing some small boys, she walked over to ask if they’d seen Pete. None had seen him. Starting back to the cabin, she noticed the camp manager raking leaves by the pavilion. Changing direction, she headed for the man.

Have you seen my boy? she asked, a quiver in her voice.

Yeah, he and Timmy are out in our rowboat, he replied. You can see them from the dock. He pointed to the dock alongside the pavilion.

Thank you. Marie hurried to the dock and ran to the far end.

There, in the middle of the lake, were Pete and Tim.

The scene horrified Marie. Her mind went back to the time Hank told her about a cousin that drowned in that lake.

They looked for the kid for over a week, Hank said. They couldn’t find him anywhere. The cops in Sparta and Grand Rapids looked for him. Someone said they saw a kid hitchhiking. Some folks said he was kidnapped, but no one demanded money.

Hank continued, One afternoon, a couple of men found the cousin’s body washed up on the shore. He’d been in the water for a couple of weeks. The body was blue. Turtles or something had been feeding on his fingers and toes. Hank paused.

Dad identified the body. He told me about it and said not to tell anyone how the kid looked. It must have been a long time ago because Dad was young. I think he tried to scare me from going out on High Lake. He said he didn’t want any kids going out on the lake, Hank finished.

Marie had nightmares for weeks. In her dreams, she saw a little boy floating face down in the water with fish, snakes, and turtles chewing on his fingers and toes. For weeks, the nightmare returned. She’d wake up wet with sweat. Sometimes she’d scream, and Belle would come in and comfort her.

Why did I ever think it a good idea to get a cabin here? What was I thinking? Gene figured we could find a place in town close to Baker Auto Parts and the beauty shop. NO! I had to find a spot next to Zaida’s School. Damn me all to hell! When I get that boy off that lake, I am going to blister his backside so hard he’ll never want to see another damn boat!

Marie began searching for a switch, muttering to herself.

She couldn’t find a stick. The camp manager worked hard, keeping the place neat and clean. He picked up every limb and twig that fell from the pines.

Frustrated, Marie marched back to the cabin. Inside the door, she found a yardstick Gene used the night before. Marie grabbed it and held it so tight her knuckles turned white. Turning, she marched back to the dock.

Tim rowed toward the pavilion. Pete saw his mother standing on the pier, looking like an army drill sergeant. She held the yardstick like a horse crop behind her back. Her jaw was locked, and her teeth clenched.

Hi, Ma, Pete yelled.

She stood ramrod straight and said nothing. Pete suspected trouble.

Tim pulled the boat alongside the dock and jumped out. He tied the boat fast to the pier and waited for Pete to disembark.

I got to get home. Ma’s waiting, Tim said.

Without another word, Tim scurried up the ladder and into the pavilion.

Where have you been? Marie spoke through clenched teeth.

Tim and I have been out watching the fish.

Did you ask if you could go watch the fish?

No, but Tim said you wouldn’t mind.

Tim was wrong! Do you remember when I told you not to get into boats when we were up at High Lake?

I guess I…forgot, Pete stammered.

Well, I doubt you will forget again!

Marie grabbed Pete’s arm, pulled him around, and walloped him so hard the yardstick broke in two. Marie took both broken pieces and beat Pete’s butt and back hard, large red welts rose where the pieces hit flesh.

She continued to strike even when Pete’s yells became soft sobs. Finally, she stopped and dragged the bewildered boy to their cabin.

Grown men and women in the picnic area could not believe their eyes.

Did you see that! a woman exclaimed.

Why didn’t one of you men put a stop to that? another woman asked.

Ain’t none of our business, an older man muttered. That boy must have done something bad to get a walloping like that!

In the cabin, Marie shoved Pete onto his bed.

Stop that bawling! she exclaimed and shut the door.

Pete was bewildered. In seven years, he’d never been whipped. Belle had sent him for a switch and gave him a couple of swats, but they merely stung a moment or two, and the pain was gone. Usually, she followed the switching with a glass of lemonade and a couple of cookies.

Bob was right! Marie never treated me like this before she married Gene! First chance I get, I’m gonna run away and go live with Grandma and Granddad!

Pete sobbed until he fell asleep. He didn’t awake until after Gene came home from work.

Gene walked into the cabin, smelling of sweat, grease, and oil. It had been a long day. He and Mick pulled four engines from wrecked cars, cleaned off the oil and grease, and moved them into the shop.

Gene wanted to hug his new bride, but that’d wait until he changed out of his coveralls, scrubbed the grease and oil from his hands, arms, and face.

Did you have a good day resting while I slaved earning a couple of bucks? he teased.

We have to move! Marie exclaimed.

What are you talking about? We just moved in last week, Gene replied.

We have to move away from the lake! She told about Pete, the boat, and her fears.

We just paid a month’s rent in advance. We can’t afford to walk away from that! Gene exclaimed.

I don’t want to stay here another day! I don’t care about the money! I want to get away from this lake before something bad happens! Marie sobbed.

Calm down, Marie. Gene took her in his arms. Let’s talk this out over supper. Where is Pete?

He’s in his room. I beat his behind and send him to bed.

Well, he ain’t likely to go down to the lake for a while. Let’s eat supper and talk things over.

Gene walked into Pete’s bedroom. He was startled when he saw the red welts on the boy’s legs. Shaking his head, he went back to the kitchen. You spanked him pretty hard, he muttered.

Marie nodded and turned over the fried potatoes.

Maybe he could stay with Forrest and Belle for a few days, Gene suggested. Meanwhile we’ll see if we can find a place in Sparta. Of course, that might throw a hitch in your plan to have him go to Myer’s School.

Maybe we could drop him off at Zaida’s house on the way to work and pick him up on our way home, Marie said. I don’t think the folks would mind if we left him with them while we find a place. Ma will understand when I tell her about the lake and the boat.

Sunday morning, they drove over to help work on Forrest’s new house.

Belle smiled when Pete jumped out of the car and ran to the house. Forrest waved, coming from the barn.

Great to see you, folks, this morning. I think Ma just perked a fresh pot of coffee. Let’s go on in the house. You can see what we’ve done the past week.

Pete ran to the barn to check on the heifer that’d been his pet calf. Peewee ran yapping at his heels. Pete stopped, picked up the little Spitz burying his face in the dog’s fur.

I’ve missed you something awful, he said.

Peewee whimpered and licked Pete’s hand.

I hate that cabin! There ain’t anyone to play with except Tim, and he got me in trouble with his darn ole rowboat! Gene told me maybe I could stay here with you, Granddad, and Grandma. That sure would be swell, wouldn’t it?

When Gene and Forrest left to work on the front porch, Marie and Belle picked up the dishes, washed them, and started preparing dinner. Most of the family’s menfolk and their wives would soon show up to work on the new house.

Marie told Belle about the boat incident and asked if Pete could stay with them a week or two. Belle scolded her for asking.

Bring in his things. We’ll put them in the room at the head of the stairs. Belle smiled.

The Lord has a way of solving problems before we even ask His help, she continued.

How would you like a job in Muskegon? Hank asked when Gene walked into work Monday morning.

Business is booming over there. Henry asked if we’d let him have a man. I asked Karl, but he lives on his dad’s place, and the old man expects him to help after work. The same goes for Mick. That leaves Buster and you. I’d kind of like Buster around to help Dad and Ma.

Hank continued, If you and Marie could move to Muskegon, it’d solve a problem for me.

I’d be pleased to work in Muskegon, Gene replied. It might solve a problem for me too. I’ll talk it over with Marie. If it’s all right with her, you’ve got your man. It’ll mean she’ll have to quit her job. That would be fine too. Gene grinned. I’d just as soon she didn’t work anyway.

She wants to send Pete to school with her aunt Zaida. There are a few wrinkles that we ain’t worked out. I’ll talk it over with her tonight and let you know in the morning if that’s all right with you, Gene said.

That’ll be fine, let me know first thing tomorrow if you can. I want to tell Henry as soon as possible, Hank replied.

Gene came through the back door of the cabin with a wide grin on his face. Marie was bending over the stove, fixing supper. Deep in thought about the problem with Pete, the lake, and moving, she didn’t know he was in the cabin until he said, What’s for supper?

What would you like? I just got home a few minutes ago. I haven’t had time to fix supper. Marie smiled.

Why don’t we splurge and have a hamburger? Gene replied. There’s a place in Newago that serves the best burgers in the state.

If you want burgers, I can fry them up in a jiffy.

We haven’t been out for a meal since we got married. Let’s take a little drive and spend some of your hard-earned cash? Gene laughed.

Now you want to waste money at a burger joint and use gas on a drive too! Marie laughed.

I’ll put in a little overtime, and we’ll use my money on the burgers—tightwad! Gene swatted Marie’s butt and headed for the shower.

Get your bib and tucker on. I’ll be clean as a whistle in fifteen minutes, and we’re heading north.

Thirty minutes later, they left Sparta on state Highway 46.

Hank wants me to take a job in the Muskegon shop, Gene broke the silence. They are doing more business than expected. Henry, the manager, asked Hank to send someone over to give them a hand.

When would you start? Marie asked.

They’d like me to start as soon as possible. We didn’t get that far. I wanted to wait and see what you thought of the idea. It would mean we’d have to make some changes to our plans.

Let me think about it, Marie said slowly.

They passed the Newaygo city limit sign. Gene slowed down and pulled up in front of Billy’s Burger Barn.

Here we are! Gene said. You can think about it over a burger.

Billy greeted them as they came through the door. He was a big man, six-foot tall, and a circumference that measured sixty inches.

Well, I’ll be damned! he exclaimed. It’s my long-lost friend from Olin Lakes. Where the hell have you been keeping yourself, Gene?

Got a job in Grand Rapids, been working over there for the last seven months.

You are one lucky son of a gun boy, most of your buddies are still picking apples, cherries, and peaches in season and mucking out horse stalls all winter. Who’s the beauty you brought with you? She can’t be too bright if she hangs out with a bum like you!

You’re right there, Billy. She let me talk her into marrying me! This is my wife, Marie!

Billy’s face turned red, and he stammered for three minutes before he said.

My God, Gene! I’m sorry, Marie, I never guessed a dumb shit like Gene would end up with a beauty like you!

Marie blushed; the two men laughed.

After more banter, Gene order burgers and fries for Marie and himself.

They’re on the house, you damn fool, Billy exclaimed. Letting me make an ass of myself like that!

After three cups of coffee and apple pie topped with cheese, Gene and Marie left Billy’s place, promising to make a habit of stopping there in the future.

It’ll be a long drive if we move to Muskegon, Marie murmured as they pulled away from the curb.

Forty-five minutes or an hour, I’d guess, Gene replied.

They drove leisurely back to their cabin and, after listening to the news, turned in for the night.

Marie could not sleep. If Gene takes the job in Muskegon, I’ll have to quit work. We agreed that both of us would work until we built up some savings. Then think about buying a house.

Another thing is Pete’s schooling. I hoped Zaida might be able to make up for the year he had at Morning Star School. I have no idea about schools in Muskegon. Then, if I could get a job, I’d have to pay someone to take care of him while I worked. There goes more money.

I don’t want to live here! Even if we find a place in Sparta, I’ll have to find someone to take care of him before and after school until I get home from work. I could talk to Zaida; she might be able to fit that into her schedule.

OH, I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO! It might be best to quit work and be a good housewife and mother. After all, I haven’t given Pete a whole lot of time these last seven years. It might be okay if I forgot about a job and extra money. That would make Gene happy, who knows, it might be best for everybody. Hell! It will only take a little longer to get that house of our own!

Marie was putting a plate of eggs and bacon on the table when Gene came into the kitchen.

You can tell Hank you’ll take the job in Muskegon, but we’ll need time to find a place to live before moving over there. Tell him we’ve paid for this cabin until the end of the month. He’ll understand.

You made up your mind kinda quick, didn’t you? Gene replied.

Seems like it took all night. I finally decided it would be a good idea for me to be home when Pete gets out of school. He can tell me everything that happened, and I can see if he’s learning anything. It’ll mean we won’t be able to save enough for a house quite as fast, but we’ll scrimp and save all we can.

Yeah, it will be a little harder with only one paycheck coming in, but we’ll make it, Gene said. Hank can quit worrying about finding someone for the job in Muskegon; he might even give me a raise.

Don’t count on that. Hank told me things were tight right now. Starting a new shop in Flint ate a big hole in their budget, Marie said. I have an idea that’s why they’re trying to take care of the Muskegon manager’s problem without hiring someone else. You’re making a good salary as it is. We must be rich. We went out for burgers and fries last night. She chuckled.

As expected, Hank was relieved when Gene agreed to move to Muskegon. He called Henry and told him Gene would be available the first of the month.

That will be just fine, Henry replied.

Marie was right; Gene’s wages did not change with the move.

On Sunday, they drove to Muskegon, looking for a place to rent. They didn’t find anything they liked. A real estate agent suggested they look in Fruitport, a small village ten miles east of Muskegon. They drove out and loved the place. They even found a house for rent on Main Street.

I’m gonna try to get out of work early tomorrow and drive over and look at that house. I’ll also check on the school too. If everything’s all right, I’ll try to rent the place.

Chapter 2

Marie returned to the cabin late Monday evening. Gene was fixing supper when she came through the back door.

Well, we have a house in Fruitport! It took some dealing, but I talked the owner down to a reasonable price. I spoke to several folks, and everyone assured me the school is fine too. I paid the first month’s rent. We can move on the first of October. Pete will miss a few weeks of school, but I think he can catch up. She flopped down on the sofa.

What’s for supper?

Forrest and Belle were pleased to learn they’d have Pete a few more weeks. Mamie brought Bob and Bonnie to the farm, and the kids played together the weekend before school began.

Marie arranged for a picnic at Camp Lake. When the ice cream ran out, Gene drove to a store near Olin Lakes to get more. The three kids rode along. The store, a rambling old log cabin, was a tourist attraction complete with souvenirs travelers might want.

Pete and Bob wandered through the store, admiring toys. Bonnie looked at girl’s clothes and trinkets.

Gene made their day buying triple-dip ice cream cones for everyone. It was a perfect afternoon until Pete sat on a bumblebee that decided to ride in the rear seat! Usually, bees left Pete alone, but the bumblebee objected to being squashed by a seven-year-old boy holding a triple-dip ice cream cone.

Eventually, September ended; it was time to pack Pete’s belongings and take him to his new home in Fruitport. Forrest and Belle hated to see him leave. They held back tears until Gene drove out the driveway. Belle’s tears flowed freely, Forrest brushed a little moisture from the corner of his eye and exclaimed. Damn dust!

Pete watched the farmhouse disappear before clutching Pee-Wee to his face. The little dog licked him quietly and, in his way, said, It’s gonna be all right, we have each other.

The two were soon asleep in the back seat.

The two awoke when Marie announced, We’re here!

She opened the car’s back door and beckoned to Pete.

Get up, sleepyhead. I want to show you our new home! Pete picked up Pee-Wee and clamored out. He walked up the porch steps and followed Marie when she unlocked the door.

Turning to the right, she entered a large room fronting on Main Street.

This is the living room, she said.

Marie turned and entered an adjoining room.

This is the dining room, she said. Pete and Pee-Wee followed her into a medium-sized room occupied with a square table surrounded by six straight back chairs. A buffet sat along one wall.

Where’d the furniture come from? Pete asked. It came with the house, Marie replied. When we get some money, we’ll replace it with our own, but right now, we’re happy to have this.

She led them from the dining room to the kitchen, which had a stove, icebox, counter with running water, and cabinets built into the walls.

Isn’t it nice? Marie asked.

Pete mumbled something and followed Marie to a door leading to the screened back porch. Through the screens, Pete saw a fenced in backyard and small barn.

In the spring, we can put in a garden back there, Marie said proudly.

Let’s go upstairs. She continued and turned to a door opening to a stairway leading to the upper level of the house. She led Pete and his puppy to the room overlooking Main Street.

This is yours, Pete. You and Pee-Wee have this room.

The room had a double bed with a brass frame, a small table by the window and one old straight back chair.

Where do you sleep? Pete asked.

Your dad and I have the main bedroom downstairs. It’s right off the dining room.

He ain’t my dad! I don’t have a dad! Pete mused.

The next room is for guests. I suppose we’ll end up using it for storage. I can’t imagine who we might have for guests. Marie chuckled. If we don’t use it, you can have it for a playroom.

Gene came upstairs carrying Pete’s belongings.

Where do you want these? he asked.

Drop them in front of the closet. I’ll take care of his things later, Marie murmured.

Look at the time! Why don’t we take Pete down to Hansen’s Dairy and have hamburgers?

Pete, take Pee-Wee to the backyard and let him do his business. We probably all need to take care of business before we eat. Gene, show Pete the privy outback. When you fellows get back, we’ll go get a burger.

When he came in, Pete put Pee-Wee in their room and closed the door.

Downstairs, Gene and Marie waited. Together, the three then walked down Main Street toward Hansen’s Dairy Bar. Two houses down the street, they walked by the Sinclair gas station with dinosaurs on either side of the building and entered the city park.

That’s the city library, Marie said, pointing to a small building at the edge of the park.

The three walked on to Hansen’s Dairy.

A large counter faced the entryway. Behind it, a smiling young lady said, Can I help you?

We’d like three burgers and fries, Gene replied.

Turning to Marie, he asked, Want anything else?

Yeah, why don’t we have chocolate malts too?

We’d like three chocolate malts too, Gene added.

The three went to a booth and sat down.

What’s a chocolate malt? Pete asked.

You’ll see. Marie chuckled.

Moments later, their order sat before them. Pete hadn’t ever seen such a large burger. He took a bite and watched Gene and Marie stirred their malts before taking a deep pull on the straws. A smile broke across their faces as they waited for Pete to try his.

Pete took two bites of his hamburger before trying the malt. One sip and his eyes brightened, and he sucked for all he was worth. The malted quenched his appetite, and he couldn’t eat his hamburger. Marie wrapped it in a napkin.

You can have this for breakfast, young man! she exclaimed. From now on, we eat everything put before us. There are folks out there that can’t afford food; we can’t afford to waste any either!

Pete nodded and wiped his face with a shirt sleeve.

When Ma’s not looking, I’ll let Pee-Wee have the hamburger. Like Grandma always says, There’s more than one way to skin a cat!

The next morning, Marie warmed the hamburger and put it on Pete’s plate. Pee-Wee sat looking up at Pete, wagging his tail.

I don’t want you to feed that dog from the table! I know your granddad feeds his dogs from the table, but we don’t. Pee-Wee will learn to eat from his bowl and not from your fingers, understand?

Pete nodded and picked up the hamburger.

How did she know?

After breakfast, Pete wandered out to the backyard. He and Pee-Wee explored the yard and the small barn.

Hi, I’m Mary; I live next door. The girl’s voice startled Pete.

Pee-Wee growled at the intruder.

What’s your name? the girl continued.

Pete. What do you want?

I want to know if you’d like to play, she replied.

I don’t play with girls. Besides, I’m busy looking this place over.

I’ll help you, Mary replied.

The two wandered around inside the shed, looking at things left on shelves and in a closet.

Gene walked into the kitchen. Looks like Pete has found a girlfriend already. He grinned. They’re fooling around in that old shed.

Marie looked up from the sink.

Where’d she come from?

I think she lives next door, Gene said.

I think I’d better see what they’re up to.

Marie turned from the sink and started toward the back door.

Don’t you trust the boy with girls? Gene chuckled.

Maybe I don’t trust girls with Pete, Marie replied, pushing the screen door open.

She walked around the side of the shed, stopped, and listened.

Look what I’ve got, Pete said, holding up a marble he’d found in an old mason jar.

Oh! That’s nothing. Turn around, and I’ll let you see mine! Mary held out a big red shooter.

That was enough. Marie reached up and pushed open a small door at the side of the building.

What are you two doing? she exclaimed.

The two children nearly jumped out of their skins.

We’re just fooling around, Ma, Pete exclaimed.

Marie realized her mistake. Chagrined, she continued, Would you like a glass of milk and a piece of cake?

Sure, Pete replied. Come on, Mary, let’s have some cake. Come, Pee-Wee, we’re gonna have some cake!

The two children and the dog ran to the back door and into the kitchen.

Gene put down the Sunday paper and walked into the kitchen.

What’s going on here?

Ma said we could have some cake and milk! Pete answered.

Marie turned from the counter where she was slicing a chocolate cake.

Want some? She turned to Gene.

Yeah, but I hope you cut me a bigger slice than those two.

Marie laughed and cut him a healthy slice. I put on the coffee pot unless you want milk like the kids.

I’ll take coffee if you don’t mind, he said.

A knock at the front door caught their attention.

I’ll get it. Gene turned and went to the front door.

He answered the next rap.

A hefty blond lady stood on the porch. Hello, she said. I’m Mrs. Dahlman. I live next door. She pointed to her house. I’m looking for my daughter. I thought she might’ve come over here.

Gene smiled. I think she is in the kitchen eating cake. Come in, we’ll see.

The two walked to the kitchen. Marie, this is Mrs. Dahlman, our next-door neighbor. She’s looking for her daughter.

Hi, Mamma, Mary said.

Marie stretched out her hand. Can we offer you coffee and cake?

That’d be nice. I hope Mary hasn’t been a bother.

She’s been no bother at all. I’m glad Pete found a friend.

The adults sat down, sipped coffee, and talked. Pete and Mary went to the living room and looked at the Sunday paper. A friendship began that lasted several years.

Chapter 3

Monday, Marie took Pete to school.

Two buildings sat on the school ground. A large two-story wooden structure sat furthest from the highway. For years, that old building served twelve grades.

Now, a red brick building served the lower eight grades.

Marie and Pete entered the main entrance to that building. Ascending three steps, they faced a hallway running the length of the structure.

A tall, thin man approached from the right. Can I be of help?

Yes, I need to enroll my son.

What grade will the young man be entering?

He’ll be in second grade.

That’s Ms. Louismore’s class. Follow me. We’ll go to the office and take care of his enrollment, then I’ll take you to meet Ms. Louismore. By the way, let me introduce myself. My name is Topper. I’m the principal.

I’m Marie Gaul, pleased to meet you. She introduced Pete. We just moved here. He missed a couple of weeks of school. My husband recently took a new job in Muskegon.

I don’t think that’ll be a problem. Ms. Louismore will get him caught up with his class in no time. A broad smile spread across his face beneath a thin, neatly trimmed mustache.

Let’s go to the office and get him enrolled, then I’ll take you to his classroom.

Pete trailed along behind the adults. He had seen few men dressed like Mr. Topper. The men in his life wore bib overalls or coveralls. Is this a city slicker Buster used to talk about?

The lady in the office quickly completed Pete’s enrollment papers. Mr. Topper thanked her.

Turning to Marie, he said. Now we’ll go to Pete’s classroom and see Ms. Louismore.

He led down the hallway to the last door on the left. Peering into the classroom, he looked at his wristwatch.

She’s just finishing her lesson. The recess bell will ring in a moment, then you can talk about Pete’s schooling and get him settled.

The bell rang; the classroom door burst open, and a stream of chattering children headed to the playground. When they cleared the doorway, Mr. Topper led Marie and Pete to the front of the room.

Ms. Louismore, this is Mrs. Gaul and her son Pete. He will be entering your class. I’ll excuse myself and let you two discuss Pete’s schooling and anything else you need to know.

He shook Marie’s hand and left.

The two ladies shook hands. Ms. Louismore offered Marie a chair and turned to Pete.

How are you, Pete? Let me find you a desk and some paper and crayons. You can busy yourself while your mother and I talk.

She led Pete between rows of desks and pointed to one midway down the room.

This one will be yours. She lifted the desktop and pulled out a ruled tablet and box of crayons.

Sit down here and make yourself at home.

Pete sat down, and the teacher returned to Marie.

Where did he go to school last year?

He was at the Morning Star School in Algoma Township north of Grand Rapids. Like all country schools, it was a one-room building. I was a little disappointed in his progress there. Marie shook her head.

I’m afraid you’ll have some work to do with him. I had a job in Grand Rapids. He stayed with his grandparents. I worked with him in the evening, but the schoolteacher didn’t give him many assignments we could go over, Marie continued.

My aunt teaches school and told me she wasn’t impressed with what he learned. If my husband hadn’t taken a job in Muskegon, I planned to enroll him in her class at Myer’s School. She might have been able to straighten him out.

Ms. Louismore nodded.

We’ve several students like that. Those one-room schools are a challenge for a teacher. They contend with children from kindergarten through eighth grade. A room full of boys from age five or six to twelve or thirteen is quite a handful. If the teacher just finished college, it’s almost an impossible situation. The country is lucky to have teachers who are up to the task.

Ms. Louismore continued. Don’t concern yourself, I’ll give Pete some tests and see what needs to be done. Let me have a week, and we’ll sit down and see where we are.

The bell rang, and children started streaming back into the classroom. Marie stood and shook Louismore’s hand.

Thank you very much. When should I pick him up?

Classes end at three fifteen. Pete will be ready to go home then.

Marie turned, paused, and turned back. I forgot his lunch.

That’s all right. I’ll take him to the cafeteria. He can have his lunch here. Louismore smiled and turned to address the class.

Class, we have a new student today. Pete, stand up so the class can get a look at you.

Pete stood. Children murmured. A boy at the back of the room whispered. Look at those bib overalls. He must be a hick. A friend chuckled and nodded in agreement.

Pete’s face reddened. He sank slowly into his seat.

Ms. Louismore smiled and said. One of you boys in the back of the room show Pete the boy’s room at recess. Now let’s turn to our reading.

She stood, retrieving a book from a nearby bookcase.

Delores, take this book to Pete.

A girl in the front row took the book from the teacher and brought it to Pete. She smiled when she handed it to him.

Children, I believe we were on page 12, Ms. Louismore said.

The class turned to page 12.

Pete, would you stand and read the page from the top.

Pete stood and read the page flawlessly.

That’s very good. You may sit down. John, turn to the next page and read the first paragraph.

The boy that mocked Pete’s overalls stood and struggled with the paragraph. The class continued readings until the recess bell rang.

Hi, I’m supposed to take you to the crapper.

Pete looked up from his desk. A small redheaded boy stood over him, smiling.

I’m Jim. Come on, I’ll show you where you can take a leak.

Pete got up and followed Jim across the hall. They pushed open a large wooden door marked Boys.

They walked in. Large ceramic sinks lined one wall. Small closet-like rooms and ceramic urinals lined the other.

You can take a leak in one of those. Jim pointed at a urinal. If you need to take a crap, you can go in one of those. Jim pointed at a stall.

Most of us fellows hold it until the lunch hour and go in the woods outback. Mr. Topper checks the boys’ room every recess and lunch hour. He hopes to catch us smoking, Jim grinned.

On cue, the door opened, and Mr. Topper walked in and looked around, sniffing for cigarette smoke.

Hello, Jimmy, I see you’re showing Pete the facilities.

Yes, sir, Jim replied. Ms. Louismore told me to.

That’s a good boy. He turned to Pete. Are you getting along all right in class, Pete?

Uh-huh, Pete replied.

Well, you boys be good. I have to check the playground.

The two boys followed the principal from the restroom and out onto the playground. It was like Pete was used to, except there were many more children his age. In addition to the swings and slides, there were a couple of hand-propelled merry-go-rounds.

The recess bell sounded, and the children rushed back to the classroom.

While they were out on the playground, the teacher printed arithmetic problems on the blackboard. When everyone was seated, she selected students to go to the blackboard and solve the problems. When Pete’s turn came, he had little difficulty with the problems. His grandfather taught him well.

It wasn’t long before the hour ended; it was time for lunch. Ms. Louismore excused the class before turning to Pete.

Pete, come with me.

Pete followed her to the older building. They went to the basement and into the cafeteria. Ms. Louismore handed Pete a metal tray and helped him select lunch. They found an empty table and sat down.

Tell me what you did before moving to Fruitport, Pete, Ms. Louismore asked.

For several minutes, Pete described life with his grandparents, the farm, and the country schools he had attended. He noticed he was the only child in the cafeteria.

Where are the other kids?

Most of them carry lunch buckets. Some live close and go home for lunch. Those that carry their lunches eat outside on the playground. When it rains or gets colder, they come in here or eat in the classroom.

Pete remembered the brown paper sack Marie placed on the kitchen table before they left for school.

I think I’ll probably carry my lunch, he said.

After lunch, Ms. Louismore read a story to the children before assigning a penmanship lesson. A spelling bee followed that. Pete did poorly on both assignments.

Marie was waiting when school ended. She and Ms. Louismore discussed Pete’s performance.

He needs a lot of work on his penmanship and spelling. He’s well up with the class in reading and arithmetic. I think if we work together, we can soon bring his performance up to par with the rest of his class. He’s a bit shy and hasn’t tried to make friends. That will likely change before the end of the week.

Did you like school? Marie asked as they walked home.

Not very much. It was boring and the kids ain’t friendly. One boy called me a hick.

Things will get better. Marie smiled. It takes time.

Marie was right. Within a couple of weeks, Pete made friends with several boys. Ms. Louismore worked tirelessly to improve Pete’s spelling and penmanship. By the end of the school year, his report card would reflect satisfactory on every item.

Many boys had bicycles. Pete was envious and begged Marie to buy him one. She explained that bikes cost money, and there was little to spare at their house. One evening, Gene came home with a surprise. Someone traded an old bike for a used car part; Gene asked Henry to take the cost of the bike from his paycheck. Henry agreed. He sold the bike to Gene for five dollars. Marie objected, but Gene laughed.

Come on, Pete. Let’s see if you can ride this thing. He chuckled.

The two went out on the front porch. Pete made several attempts to ride without success. Finally, Gene held the bike upright; when Pete was astride, Gene ran alongside holding the rear of the seat. After a few feet, he pushed hard and yelled. Pedal, Pete!

Pete pedaled, and the bike stayed upright. Pete laughed and peddled harder. Soon he sailed past the Sinclair station and the large house at the end of the street. Unfortunately, he didn’t know how to slow or stop the bike. Nature took over; a giant old oak stood at the end of the sidewalk. Pete’s stop was abrupt and painful.

Gene watched, first with pride, then with fear and finally in horror as he realized what was happening. Before the bike hit the tree, Gene ran down the sidewalk as fast as he could run. Pete was groggy and trying to stand when Gene arrived. He steadied Pete and picked up the bike.

The front wheel was severely bent. When Pete regained his senses, the two made their way back to the house. Gene pushed the damaged bike, and Pete rubbed his sore head and leg.

Is it broken? Pete asked, looking at the bent wheel.

It’s gonna take a little work, but I think we can have it ready to ride in a week or so, Gene replied, shaking his head. When we get it fixed, I think we better learn how to stop the thing!

Jimmy lived across Main Street. Before long, he’d cross the street to play. One afternoon Gene was sitting on the top step of the front porch when Jimmy arrived.

Pete, you got to fight when those guys pick on you! Jimmy said. Didn’t anyone ever teach you to fight? If you sock one those guys, they’ll leave you alone.

Naw, Ma doesn’t want me fighting at school, Pete murmured.

What’d she says when you came home with your shirt torn the other day?

Not much. I told her I fell on the playground.

Yeah, you fell all right—when Billy shoved you!

Come on, I’ll show you how to fight.

Naw, I don’t feel like a fight.

Gene listened to the discussion with interest.

Go on, Pete, let Jimmy show you how to fight, Gene said.

Let’s wrestle, Jimmy said. He grabbed Pete and wrestled him to the ground.

Pete tried to get to his feet, but Jimmy pinned him to the ground.

Let me up! Pete yelled.

Make me! Jimmy yelled. Pete struggled to no avail.

FIGHT, PETE! Gene urged.

I don’t want to fight! Pete replied.

Finally, Jimmy let him up.

If you don’t fight, they’re gonna call you a sissy! Jimmy panted.

I don’t care! Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words don’t hurt me any!

Maybe! Jimmy whispered, through clenched teeth, but I ain’t gonna play with a yellow belly!

He brushed off his trousers and turned to go home.

Come on, Pete pleaded. I want to show you something.

Nope. I don’t hang around a coward. Jimmy trotted off across the street.

Gene watched in amazement.

Pete, you have to stick up for yourself. The other kids are gonna pick on you if you won’t stick up for yourself!

I don’t want to wrestle! Pete exclaimed.

There are other ways to fight, Pete, Gene said.

He walked down the stairs to where Pete stood.

Make a fist and hit me in the nose.

Ma wouldn’t want that! Pete exclaimed.

Come on. Marie will never know.

If I hit you, she’ll know.

Come on, I dare you to take a poke at me! Gene stuck out his chin.

Pete laughed and swung. Gene quickly blocked the blow with his right forearm and lightly tapped Pete on the nose with a left jab. Pete grinned and took another swing that was easily blocked and followed with either a left jab or a right hook.

The two were laughing and sparing when Marie came out and announced. Dinner’s ready!

Gene drove a finger into Pete’s gut when Pete doubled over in surprise; Gene cuffed him on the ear. Pete looked surprised.

Gene grinned and said. That will almost always get um. He slapped Pete on the shoulder. Let’s see what’s for supper.

What were you two up to out there? Marie asked as the two pulled out their chairs and sat down.

Just fooling around, Gene replied. The two grinned at each other.

The next morning on the way to school, Fatso Billy Brown came up behind Pete and Jimmy. He shoved Pete so hard he almost fell.

Pete staggered, turned around, and whipped a right haymaker to Fatso’s nose.

The boy fell on his butt and grabbed his nose, which was spurting blood. He got to his feet and ran home.

The boys laughed. Jimmy said, Where’d you learn that?

My dad showed me last night after you went home. Pete grinned in pride.

During the first recess, Tommy Thompson pushed Jimmy off a teeter-totter. While he was getting up, Pete shouted, Leave Jimmy be!

Make me! Tommy yelled.

Pete walked up and hit him in the stomach. When Tommy doubled over in surprise, Pete delivered a hard uppercut to his face. Tommy staggered back and touched his lip, which was beginning to swell and bleed.

What’d ya do that for? he cried.

"Because you said, ‘make me,’ Pete put an arm around Jimmy’s shoulder, and the two walked back to the classroom.

Your dad showed you how to fight! Jimmy exclaimed.

Chapter 4

When they settled in Fruitport, the family usually drove back to visit Forrest and Belle on Sunday. Forrest always planned plenty of work, and the men pitched in. While they worked, the women helped Belle around the house and prepared a hearty meal.

When the men finished work, they gathered in the cellar for beer and cribbage. Talk around the table usually drifted to current events.

What do you think about Germany and that guy Hitler? Mick said, looking up from his cards.

He’s been threatening to invade Czechoslovakia and most likely will, Forrest replied, reaching for his beer bottle. I talked to some Germans at the market the other day, and they say he’s ready.

The Grand Rapids Herald said his generals are against it, Karl said.

They were against going into the Rhineland too. They said the French would boot their butts out, but Hitler went ahead. He sent five or six hundred guys across the bridge, and the French didn’t do a damn thing, Forrest countered.

He’s decided he’s smarter than his generals, and if Hitler makes up his mind to invade, that’s what he’ll do.

I heard on the radio that Russia and Poland say they’ll back the Czechs, Gene opined.

I doubt Hitler gives a damn about the Russkies or the Pollocks. Remember, he sent soldiers and airplanes to help beat the Commies in Spain, and they pretty well did the job, Forrest added.

By the way, did you read that Lindberg says the German air force has better fighters than the French and Brits and even ours?

I’d like to have seen Willis’s face when he read that. Mick laughed. I heard he’s flying British planes up in Canada.

The less said about that SOB around here, the better! Forrest exclaimed.

Gene nodded. He’d heard about Willis and Marie. He also knew how Forrest felt.

Do you think there’ll be a war if Hitler goes into Czechoslovakia? Karl asked.

I don’t think anyone has the stomach for another war, Forrest opined. The French and Brits have sent folks to talk to Hitler. If they talk him out of invading the Czechs, that’ll be the end of it for a while. But the men on the street in Germany think Hitler is right. They believe the Allies carved too much out of Germany appeasing the French, Pollocks, and Czechs! Forrest took a long pull on his beer bottle and looked around the table.

We don’t have to worry anyway. When that fellow in the State Department said we’re allies with France and England, and we’ll help if they go to war over Czechoslovakia, FDR said he was wrong, and we won’t help them. Forrest put down his beer and said, Whose play?

I think it’s mine, Mick replied. He played a card and moved his matchstick three holes up the cribbage board.

A short while later, Marie came partway down the cellar stairs.

It’s time to for supper, she announced.

Soon, everyone gathered around the table piled high with fresh vegetables and a pork roast. Friendly chatter continued throughout the meal.

Forrest put down his coffee cup after dessert.

The weatherman says we’ve got snow coming our way. If you fellows can help, I’d like to get those potatoes in before they’re under a foot of snow.

I’ll be here Saturday to help, Karl said.

The others said they’d help if they could.

Pete enjoyed being with Forrest and Belle; they gave him all the attention the busy visit allowed. He wanted to stay with them, but he had to be in school. They didn’t offer encouragement when he begged Marie to