Chapter One

Late the next day, Sunday morning Sayer knocked on the dormitory room door of Dan Miller.

"Come In", said Miller in a loud voice.

Robert entered the room and said, "I need some information".

"Shoot", said Miller.

 "Your date last night. Is there anything serious going on between the both of you?"

"Serious? No way. Why?"

 "To tell you the truth, I'm interested in her, but I don't want to be stepping on your toes."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PRECARIOUS

by

Robert F. Clifton

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Precarious

Copyright 2016 by Robert F. Clifton

 

All right reserved. No part of this book may be reproduce or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission form the author.

 

The reader is advised that this is a work of fiction. Any similarity to names, persons, places or events is

purely coincidental.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dedicated To

Debra  A.  Garrigus

A Special Friend

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“The first step to empathy and compassion is realizing the similarities between yourself and those that are suffering;

the first step to forgiveness is realizing that we’re all human and we all share the same capacity for fallibility.”

Oli Anderson...Personal Revolution

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table Of Contents

 

Chapter One....The Dance

Chapter Two.... War

Chapter Three..Playing House

Chapter Four....Barbara

Chapter Five.....Cummings And Blankfield Vs Wilson

Chapter Six.......Jane

Chapter Seven...Helen

Chapter Eight....Divorce

Chapter Nine.....Doctor Mano

Chapter Ten.......Fort Lauderdale

 

 

 

Credits...Song Lyrics : Time Out For Tears...Berman And

Schiff

Down Like Rain....Jesse Cook

 

 

 

Chapter One

The Dance

 

Robert Sayer moved expertly through the crowded dance floor gently guiding the girl he held close to him and at the same time kept moving in time to the music. As he did, the rotating mirror ball in the ceiling cast a shower of light stars throughout the semi-dark, ballroom, creating an ambiance and aura made up of different colors. The university Naval, R.O.T.C. was about to graduate its senior members. On this Saturday night of May 14, 1949 Robert Sayer was about to graduate and at the same time receive his commission as an ensign in the United States Navy Reserves. To celebrate, the potential, reserve officer midshipmen, soon to be graduates held a dance.

When the orchestra stopped playing he released his dance partner and applauded in appreciation with the other couples on the floor. The music began almost immediately, this time the tune was the popular, “Harbor Lights.” Sayer turned to his date,

Kay Parker and said, “This is a great song to dance to. Do you still want to dance or take a break?”

“Let’s dance,” said Kay.

He took Kay in his arms again and led her again in time to the music. As they danced they moved past other couples. He caught the scent of mixed perfumes carried in the air, all different aromas applied and worn by the young women at the dance. He saw the different color corsages tied with ribbons on petite wrists or pinned to the dresses of the girls. Robert smiled and nodded to the other dancers on the floor. Then, he saw her. Saw her in the arms of her date. When he did he knew instantly that he wanted to meet her, had to know her. He wanted to hear the sound of her voice, the feel of her in his arms, smell the aroma of her perfume, know her likes, her dislikes. For the rest of the evening he couldn’t take his eyes off of her. She was of a slight build. He judged her to be about five foot six, or seven inches tall. She wore her brunet hair in a page boy cut which then drew ones attention to it and then to her face, a face that was more then attractive. To him it was a beautiful face, an innocent face.

When she took to the floor to dance, Sayer did the same and as he danced he moved Kay closer and closer to where the young woman was with her partner. He moved closer and spoke to Dan Miller, the woman’s date. “Great graduating dance Dan”.

“Hey, yes, glad you’re enjoying it,” said Miller.

Sayer heard the man’s words but he saw only the face of the woman in the other man’s arms as he gazed long at her. She looked back at him with deep, dark, brown eyes and smiled. Then, Miller danced her away and he lost sight of her in the crowd of dancers. When he did, as a gentleman he turned all of his attention to Kay Parker for the rest of the evening. Still, he couldn’t get the girl who had been Miler’s date and dance partner out of his mind.

Late the next day, Sunday morning, Sayer knocked on the dormitory room door of Dan Miller. “Come In!”, said Miller in a loud voice.

Robert entered the room and said, “I need some information.”

“Shoot,” Miller replied.

“Your date with you last night. Is there anything serious going on between you?”

“Serious? No way. Why?” asked Miller.

“To tell you the truth I’m interested in her, but I don’t want to be stepping on your toes.”

“Hey, help yourself and good luck,” Miller responded.

“What’s her name?”

“Janet Campbell and while we’re at it I’ll give you all that I know. She is a Liberal Arts Major. She’ll graduate at the same time as we do. As far as I know she’s virtuous. I didn’t try anything if that’s what you want to know,” offered Miller.

“No, but I’m glad you told me.”

“Hey, by the look on your face you seem to have been smitten by her last night,” said Miller.

“Smitten? I don’t know about that. All I know is I can’t get her out of my mind. Do you know how I can get to meet her?”, asked Sayer.

“Sure, she’s in my French class. The course will be ending this week. If you want, I’ll introduce you to her,” said Miller.

“No, that won’t be necessary. Where’s the classroom?”

“Voorhees, room 105.”

“What time?”

“One forty-five Monday.”

“Thanks.”

“Think nothing of it. Oh, and by the way, you’re smitten.”

At two-thirty that afternoon the college students attending the French class began filing out of the classroom. As they did Robert Sayer stood anxiously waiting for Janet Campbell to exit the room and walk towards him. Then, he saw her.

“Janet?”, he said as she neared him.

“Yes?”, she answered.

“You don’t know me. I saw you briefly Saturday night at the dance. I would like to introduce myself to you,” said Robert

“O.K. introduce yourself.”

“I’m Robert Sayer. I’m currently studying pre-law and as you know I’m also a member of N.R.O.T.C.”

“So, you’re going to be an officer and a gentleman,” she said.

“I’ll be an officer. I’m already a gentleman,” he replied.

“I know. Dan Miller told me how you made certain that there wasn’t anything going on between the two of us. That was very nice of you.”

“I don’t know how nice it was, but I’m glad to finally get to meet you.”

“Let me ask you something. What would you have done if there was something going on between Dan and me?”

“I’d still wanted to have met you.”

“Well, now that you have, what do you have in mind?”

“Oh, my dear lady. Long walks, longer talks, dinners, dances, plays, movies and anything else you would like to do, just as long as it’s with me.”

Janet laughed. “My you certainly come right to the point don’t you?”

“Life is short. Now, which of those things that I have mentioned would you like to start with?”

“I’d say dinner.”

“And I’d say what time shall I see you at your dorm?’

“Is seven alright?”

“Seven is fine. Next question. Where would you like to dine American, Italian or French cuisine?”

“American. The other two use too much garlic.”

At seven thirty that evening Robert sat gazing at Janet as she looked over the menu. “What are you having?, she asked.

“This is one of the best restaurants in New Brunswick, so to ease your mind, everything is good. However, since you asked, I’m having the halibut and wild clams.”

“Very well, I think I’ll have the prosciutto wrapped chicken breast”, said Janet.

“Now that you made that decision, suppose you tell me all about yourself,” said Robert.

“Well, let’s see. To start, I’m one of four children. I have one sister and two brothers. I’m sort of being the middle child. My one brother and sister are older than me and I’m older than my youngest brother. I like good books, good music, good food and good friends. As you probably know, I’m enrolled in the Liberal Arts Program here at the university and after graduation have no idea at all of what I’m going to do with my life. That about sums it up. My mother is a housewife. My father is a local politician. Now, what about you?”

“Me? I’m an only child. I plan and hope to become a lawyer, become successful, marry and raise a family, the typical American dream thing,” Sayer answered.

“Sounds good. Some lucky woman will have it made.”

“Do you think so?”

“Why not? People do it all the time.”

“Does that include you?”, he asked.

“Oh yes, eventually.”

“Anyone in mind?”

“Not at the moment.”

“So, what are you plans for the summer, now that you’re a college graduate?” he asked, changing the subject.

“Actually getting a great tan on the beach in Wildwood.”

“Is that where you’re from?”

“Yes. And what are your plans for the summer?”

“Work, make money. I still have two years of law school I have to pay for ahead of me,” he replied.

“You haven’t told me where you’re from?,” she asked.

“Atlantic City, my Mom is a telephone operator and my father is a bus driver.”

“Really?”

“You seemed surprised.”

“ No, except that we’re both from beach town resorts. It’s sort of a coincidence.”

“I’m hoping it’s a preindication.’

“Of what?”, she asked.

“Of seeing you on regular bases.”

“That’s what, a forty or fifty-mile commute?”

“ Nothing to it. Can I see you over the summer?”

“Yes.”

Robert smiled.

“Why are you smiling?”, she asked.

“Your answer just made this dinner even better.

*****************

Throughout the summer of 1949, Robert Sayer worked two jobs, one as a laborer in a lumber yard, the other as a dishwasher in the evening at a local restaurant. He saw Janet on Sundays. On those days they walked the beach or boardwalk,

laid in the sun on a blanket on the beach and had long conversations. At times they listened to the top hit musical tunes of the day on her portable radio. Those talks were about everyday things, but as time went by the conversation turn to speaking about each other. By Labor Day, Robert Sayer was deeply in love. He told her so and she went willingly into his arms accepting that fact. Then, little by little, day after day his love began to turn into an obsession. Nothing else or anyone mattered. All that did was being with her and to him, there weren't enough hours in the day when they were together.

The hot days of summer passed quickly and in early September Robert Sayer began riding the commuter train that ran from Atlantic City to Philadelphia. Each weekday morning he got off at the Camden station and walked to the university law classroom where he sat listening intently to the professors.

He took notes, got engaged in questions and answers, but all the while in the back of his mind he thought of her. He wondered what she was doing, what she was going to do that day and whatever it was, he wanted to do it with her.

The ability to ride the train put less strain on the black, 1939, Ford, Deluxe sedan he drove. Still, he drove the fifty-two miles each way at least two times a week. When he wasn’t with her they had long conversations on the telephone. What he was saving on the price of gasoline he was paying for in long distant telephone calls, but he didn’t care. He wanted to hear her voice and when he did it took the place of not being with her.

About the same time Janet, through the political influence of her father took a position as a Public Relations Specialist at city hall. She immediately began dedicating her time to enhance the beach resort of Wildwood, New jersey to the general public, particularly in the Philadelphia, area.

She enjoyed her work and her position. So much so that there were times when the planned meetings with Robert had to be delayed, postponed or canceled altogether. This, of course, upset him. When it did paranoia raised its ugly head and he began thinking that in some ways he was beginning to lose her.

When he complained she assured him that he was imagining things. She mentioned that her work was just as important to her as his study of law was to him. When she did that he calmed down and alone together he held her tightly in his arms, afraid to let her go.

At a break from law school during the holidays, Robert was able to spend more time with Janet. Unfortunately. The municipal government of Wildwood only gave time off for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. Still, she made as much time as possible to be with him. On Christmas Eve he gave her a silver bracelet. She give him an album of the recordings of

Scheherazade, one of his favorite, symphonic suites. When he took her in his arms he whispered, “Thank you. I love you so very much.”

She raised her face, took his face gently in her hands and kissed him. “You’re welcome. I didn’t know whether to get you this or an album of Cole Porter tunes. I hope I made the right decision,” she said.

“You did. I have most of Cole Porters songs,’ he answered.

“Do you have a favorite?”

“I’d have to say, it’s Begin The Beguine.”

“Why?”

“I don’t know. It has a certain mystique about it,” he replied.

“Maybe it’s sexy.”

“Could be. One seems to think of it taking place on a beach in the tropics when listening to the lyrics. Of course, that’s only my opinion,” Robert answered.

“Tell me something?”

“What?”, he asked.

“When do your classes start again?”

“Monday, January sixteen. Why?”

“I was just wondering how many more days you had left on the break. You have all that free time while I’m mostly confined to the office.”

“I know and just the thought of us not being together all of that time drives me crazy.”

“Well, let’s talk about New Year's Eve,” she said.

“Where would you like to go to celebrate?”

“I’m more or less obligated to attend the party being held by the local Chamber of Commerce.”

“Not the most romantic situation I can vision,” he replied.

“Will you go with me or not?”

“Certainly.”

“Good, then that’s settled.”

***************

At approximately eleven thirty PM on the evening of December 31, 1949, Robert Sayer stood alone in a corner of the room. In his hand he held the now, warm glass containing Seagram Seven mixed with Seven Up, a drink he had requested from the bartender three hours ago. The collar of the white shirt he wore felt tight around his neck. He wasn’t certain about his necktie. Did in go with his Gray suit? Was it tied correctly? Was it too long? These questions kept coming to him as he watched person after person approach and talk to Janet.

He was both jealous and angry. He wanted this time at the party to be spent with her and her alone. As those feelings increased he felt the heat of his body rise caused both by the many people in the room and his sensitivity. He tried to fight those feelings. He loved her. He wanted her and the thing he didn’t want to do was become possessive. It was difficult for him

wanting her only to himself, yet knowing that he had to let her be herself. She had family, friends, a profession, all of which were part of her life. Still, he wanted her life to be all about them, them together.

Janet finally broke away from those that wanted to talk with her. She looked around the room, saw Robert standing in the corner and walked to him. “You don’t appear to be having a nice time,” she said.

“I’m not.”

“Why?”

“ First of all, I don’t know these people, have nothing in common with any of them and as far as I’m concerned this isn’t

a party. It’s a business meeting. It’s a get together of merchants who come here to say, “You scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours.” They all may be wearing paper hats pretending to be here to celebrate the New Year, but it’s not a celebration event. It’s a commercial event.”

“I’m sorry you feel that way.”

“Where’s the music, where’s the fun? there’s no orchestra, no band, hell, there isn’t even a disk jockey with a stack of records. Party my ass!”

Janet stood silent for a moment, then spoke. “I’ve never seen you like this. Did you ever stop for a moment and look and see that this is about me and not you? We can’t always do just what you want to do, go where you want to go, make love when you want to make love. I’m an individual, a person, someone, but not someone who will become just an object told what to do and when to do it, told when to come and when to go.”

Robert swallowed hard, then responded. “I’m sorry. you’re right of course. Forgive me, please, it’s just that I wanted you all to myself, particularly tonight.’

Janet fought the anger that had been created by Robert’s actions and words. Her red face, flushed in anger slowly returned to normal. Her heavy breathing subsided. When it did they both heard a masculine voice say loudly, “Ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three two, one. Happy New Year!”

She went willingly into his arms and after they kissed, he said, “Happy New Year, darling.”

She looked at him and smiled.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Two

War

 

Near the end of May 1950 Robert Sayer finished his law studies. Ahead of him was the New Jersey Bar examination. He was ready for it. Since the exams weren't until after Labor Day he thought that he had plenty of time to refresh his knowledge, by once again studying his books and notes. Once he passed and was admitted to the bar he expected to work for a time and eventually be able to practice law in court. When he was making a living wage he intended to ask Janet to marry him.

On June 25, 1950, the North Koreans crossed the thirty-eighth parallel invading South Korea and a new war began. Two days later as Robert and Janet sat on the beach he turned to her and said, “It looks like I’m going to be called up by the Navy.”

“Why?”, she asked.

“It’s this Korea thing. I’m in the Navy Reserve. I understand the government is calling not only reserves but some retired officers and enlisted personnel as well.”

“You don’t have to go,” she said.

“What do you mean?”

“My father said that you can resign your commission.”

“That only means that by doing that I’d only be delaying being drafted.”

“He also said that you could go back to college. That way you could be deferred.”

“I couldn’t do that. It wouldn’t be right. The Navy paid some of my tuitions. I owe them plenty.”

“What about me? What do you owe me?”, she asked.

“Right now? Marry me. This way at least I’ll have a steady income. I can support you. My background in law would probably get me assigned to the Judge Advocate. That means being assigned on shore. We’d be together.”

“And then what? Do we pack and unpack, drive from one base to another in your old Ford, live in Navy housing? What would I be doing while you were busy doing whatever the Navy told you to do? I don’t see myself wearing house dresses with my hair done up in curlers and listening to gossip from the other officer wives on the base. No way.”

“Janet, I have to go. As my wife I want you to go with me.”

“You have a choice , Robert. Think it over.”

*************

On the night of Thursday, June 14, 1951, off the port of

Songjin, North Korea, Ensign Robert Sayer stood on the deck of the USS Fortescue. He watched as round after round fired from the five-inch guns of the destroyer he was assigned to ripped through the night sky then hit the docks, warehouses and small ships and boats in the enemy harbor. The shots fired from the destroyer made a wicker, wicker, sound as they passed through the night sky. What he did not see was the shot fired by the shore battery that hit the Fortescue. Killing three men and wounding four. He was one of the four. Robert regained consciousness three days later on the USS Haven, a Hospital Ship. At the same time, he had been promoted from Ensign to Lieutenant, Junior Grade.

With the removal of shrapnel from his right leg on board the Haven, he then was shipped to the United States Naval Hospital, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. There, the Navy taught him how to walk again. It was there that his mail caught up with him. When he saw the first of two letters from Janet, he examined the postmarks in order to know which one to open first. He eagerly opened the earliest posting, removed the folded letter and read, “ Dear Robert

I hope that this letter finds you well and safe. I noticed that the letters that you send me take a while to get to me, but I do realize that there is a war on and imagine that most mail goes from ship to ship and eventually flown here to the United Sates.

I have been busy. As you know it is summer and the summer tourists are all about, but that’s what makes the city go.

I also want you to know that in one of your letters where you expressed your love for me and asked me to wait for you. I must say that I can’t agree to that type of commitment.

Remember, I gave you a chance to choose between going with the Navy or staying home with me. You chose the Navy. Since you did I reserve the right then to come and go as I please. If that means meeting other people and doing things with them. Then so be it.

I hope that you stay safe and I’ll be glad when this war is over. When it does and when you eventually come home we’ll see how we feel about each other then.

Sincerely yours,

Janet

 

 

Robert folded the letter and slowly inserted it back into  the original envelope. He then looked at the next letter and although he wanted to open it he was reluctant to do so. Then, he decided to read whatever she had to say. He slowly unfolded the baby blue stationary and read, “ Dear Robert, there is no easy way to sit down and write to you telling you that I have met someone, someone that makes me happy. We have the same interests, enjoy our time together and we love each other.

I write to you now, letting you know that I won’t be here waiting for you. By telling you this it allows both of us to get on with our lives. I wish you much happiness and I hope that we can still be friends. Stay safe, stay well.

Sincerely

Janet

He wanted to shout, “No, no, no!” He wanted to be there with her to talk to her to make her listen and reason with him.

She had to understand that he loved her, needed her, that she meant the entire world to him. Then, he realized that the thousands of miles between them at present made it impossible.

Still, he sat down and wrote to her. In his letter, he once again explained why he had to go to war, how he couldn’t in good conscious sit back and watch other men his age serve while he remained safe at home. He was no coward. She had to understand that. Over and over in the letter, he expressed his love for her. He ended up begging her to reconsider and to wait for him to come home. Then, together they could once again realize that they were meant for each other.

Three weeks later at mail call, he heard his name called and he anxiously took the letter in his hand. He felt his heart beating in excitement than almost stop as he read the large letters on the face of the envelope, RETURN TO SENDER. That night the dreams began.

In the dream, they were together again. They were walking barefoot on the white, sandy beaches of Wildwood, New Jersey.

He held her hand as they talked. He declared his love for her over and over and he watched as she listened intently. He asked her to come back to him. Then, she turned her head towards him and said, “Maybe.” Just before he woke he felt her love for him return. Waking, he realized that it had only been a dream, only wishful thinking and the sadness and loneliness returned.

At midnight the next day, Robert sat on the edge of his hospital bed. He couldn’t sleep. Thoughts of Janet continued to occupy his mind. The only light in the hospital ward came from the lamp on the desk occupied by a Corpsman. He saw the Corpsman get up and stand at attention as the night duty nurse entered the room. The nurse spoke at length with the enlisted man then began to make her rounds, checking each patient who

lay sleeping. When she got to where Robert Sayer sat she stopped and asked, “Is everything alright?”

“Fine, I’m just having a problem getting to sleep tonight”, he answered

“Is it your leg?”, she asked.

“No,” he answered.

“Very well, but you should try to get some sleep. You need your rest.”

Two evenings later Robert wandered into the officers club.

A Hawaiian orchestra played, alternating between island tunes and the popular dance tunes of the day. With a slight limp he went to the bar, took a seat on a high back stool and ordered a whiskey sour. When the drink was placed before him he picked it up, took a sip returned the glass to the bar top then slowly turned in the stool and looked over the crowd. The dance floor was crowded. Most of the tables were occupied, for the most part by either married couples or officers with dates for the evening. He noticed one table where five people sat, two couples and one woman alone. He recognized her. It was the night nurse. Something drew him to her. “Was it the loneliness?”, he asked himself. As he tried to make up his mind if he should approach her he sat and studied her. He saw a small, petite brunet. Her hair was short but still kept in a feminine style. He hadn’t noticed it before due to the white cap she wore with the Lieutenant, J.G. gold stripe attached to it. He remembered the sound she made as she walked in the heavily starched, white, nurses uniform as she made her rounds in the ward. She was slightly tanned, more than likely from the beaches near the hospital. As he sat watching her he saw her smile, then laugh at something someone had said at the table. He noticed that when she smiled or laughed tiny dimples appeared in her cheeks and her nose slightly wrinkled. He made up his mind and gently slid off of the bar stool.

He made his way walking slowly and navigating cautiously between the arranged tables not wishing to bump into those who sat talking. As he walked he kept his eyes on her hoping that she remained seated until he got to her. Then he found himself next to her. He felt the eyes of her friends as they looked at him and he saw her face when she raised her face towards him. He cleared his throat and said, “Excuse me Lieutenant, but I was wondering if you would be interested in dancing with a gimpy sailor.

The woman smiled. “You’re Lieutenant Sayer as I recall.”

“At your service,” he replied.

“Why don’t you pull up a chair and join us?”, said one of the men at the table. Since Marie knows you she can make the introductions”.

“Thank you,” Sayer replied as he took a chair from an empty table. After the introductions were made the group at the table turned their attention to Robert.

“So, what’s your billet here in Hawaii?”, asked one of the men.

“Right now it’s to recuperate. After that, who knows?”, he answered.

“You mention recuperate were you wounded? ” asked one of the women.

“Unfortunately I got in the way of a North Korean shore battery shell. I got a piece of it in my leg.”

“Oh, I’m so sorry,” said the woman who had asked the question.

“Thank you, but there’s no need to be sorry. Three men were killed in the same attack. I consider myself to be lucky,” said Robert.

“So, I assume that since you are wounded you must be one of Marie’s patients,” said another woman.

“I guess so,” Sayer answered.

“He’s one of twenty patients in Ward Seventeen. All the patients are considered ambulatory. The last time I looked at his chart he was doing well,” said Marie.

“Well, since you know that I’m doing well then I must be able to dance. Will you dance with me?”, he asked.

“Yes,” she answered.

Robert and the other officers stood as Marie got up out of

her chair and Sayer walked with her to the dance floor. When the orchestra began to play he took her in his arms. The song was, “Because Of You”, and he had no problem keeping in time to the music. His leg felt fine. He looked down at her and said, “So, your first name is Marie. Are you going to tell me your last name?”, he asked.

“It’s Hensley. Marie Hensley,” she answered.

“So, shall I call you Lieutenant Hensley, Miss Hensley or Marie Hensley?”, he asked.

“Tonight you can call me Marie Hensley. In the hospital and in particular on the ward it has to be either Lieutenant or Miss.”

“I understand. So, tell me Marie are you in the Navy for a career or just for an exciting adventure in your life?”

“I like Navy life, but I won’t make it a career. Actually, my plans after the war are over is to go back to school for awhile and later become a Nurse practitioner.”

“Pardon my ignorance, but what is a nurse practitioner?”

“Someone who can diagnose, treat patients as well as write prescriptions, almost like a physician.”

“Ah, I see,” he said just as the music was ending.

Almost immediately the orchestra began to [play again. This time the tune was, “Would I Love You.” Before she could turn and walk away he gently took her in his arms again. “Now, you were saying?” he said.

“She smiled. “What else do you want to know?”, she asked.

“Let’s start with, where are you from?”

“Minnesota.”

“That’s a big place”.

“St. Paul.”

“Never been there.”

“That’s a shame. What about you. Where are your from?”

“New Jersey, Atlantic City, actually.

“Really I went to school with a girl who tried out for Miss Minnesota.”

“Was she in the Miss America Pageant?”

“No, she didn’t make it.”

“That’s too, a shame.”

“So, Lieutenant Sayer, what are your plans after the war?’

“Go home, take and pass the bar exam. Work in a law office then hook up with a reputable law firm and live happily ever after.

“I see. No plans for marriage. There has to be a girl waiting for you back home,” said Marie

“Nope. No girl sitting and anxiously waiting to see me walking up the drive. No one sitting night after night writing to me or reading my letters to herself over and over.”

“I notice a sad tone in your voice,” said Marie.

“Really? Then let’s turn the conversation back to you.’

“Alright if we must. What else do you want to know?”

“Can I see you again after tonight?”, he asked.

“I’ll be right upfront with you. At the moment there’s someone back home. He’s asked me to marry him. I haven’t given him an answer yet.”

“I see. Well now, that’s bad news. At the same time, you haven’t committed so while you’re trying to make up your mind I’ll ask you again. Can I see you again after tonight?”

“Yes.”

“Good do you have liberty this weekend?”

“Yes, I do.”

“How would you like to go to Waikiki? We could lunch at a hotel lay on the beach and swim in the ocean. Don’t answer right away. If that’s not what you would like to do just tell me what you want to do and we’ll do it.”

“Don’t think badly of me, but I’ve always wanted to rent one of those tourist cottages on the beach. Enjoy the sun and water, buy and cook groceries, eat at a table that isn’t painted Navy Gray and for just a little while escape uniforms, rules and regulations.”

“Are you willing to do that with me?’, he asked.

She looked up at him and smiled. “Yes”, she answered.

A young, attractive woman walked to the microphone on the stage. The orchestra began to play again. The name of the song was, “Time Out For Tears”. He took Marie in his arms again and as they danced he listened to the lyrics the young woman was signing’

 

“Time out for tears

because I’m thinking

of you.

Time out for tears, My

darling, now that we’re

through.

 

You know that I never

wanted our plan to end

and you know that I would

be willing to try again. Try again.

 

Time out for tears

my heart is yearning for you!

All through the years

here’s what I’ll do

 

I’m going to spend some time

and dance and dine, playing

with somebody new. But

there’ll be time out for tears

whenever I think of you.”

 

Robert felt the tears welling in his eyes and when they finished dancing Marie looked at him and said, is it your leg?”

“No, just too much cigarette smoke in the room, that’s all, “ he answered.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Three

Playing House

 

A month later, Lieutenant, J.G. Robert Sayer was discharged from the Naval Hospital and assigned to the Master At Arms unit at the docks in Pearl Harbor. Marie Hensley continued to serve at the hospital and spent as much time as possible with Robert. Once a month, usually on payday they would pool their money, drive out of Pearl Harbor in a Mercury convertible Marie borrowed from another nurse and rent the same, small, thatched roof cottage for the weekend. There they walked around barefoot, attired in shorts and loose fitting pull over shirts. Two matching hammocks were strung up on the porch that faced the ocean. Hanging suspended, one in each hammock they either talked, read, or napped.

Robert had bought two pots and a frying pan at the PX and Marie used them to cook with. At night they sat on the porch in the dark, listening to the ocean waves gently breaking on the shore. At times they walked the moonlit beach hand in hand. Millions of stars shone down illuminating the strand.

Usually. after breakfast, they walked along the beach hand in hand talking or laughing as they dodged the incoming water from crashing waves. On other nights, sometimes, they made love. Marie referred to what they were doing as, “Playing House.” Robert thought that it was a cute way of putting it.

At times when she wasn’t watching he looked at her. He asked himself if he was in love with her. He didn’t really know. He had feelings for Marie, deep feelings. Yet, the love he had for Marie did not feel like the love he had had for Janet. And, still, the same dreams of Janet returning to him continued.

On a June weekend as they sat at the table having dinner Marie was very quiet. “Something wrong?” he asked.

“Yes. I just got word that my mother in rather sick. I have to fly home.” she said.

“When?”

“Almost immediately.”

“Well, what must be, must be.”

“There’s more.”

“Really, what?”

“I took thirty days leave.”

“Why?’

“ From what I’ve learned she’s going to need nursing. I want to be there.”

“Hey, don’t look so sad. Believe me, I understand.”

That night he held her tight, not wanting her to leave, yet knowing that she had to go.

*****************

During the rest of June Robert performed his duty as a Master At Arms, protecting the docks and warehouses containing stores and ammunition. He had only received two letters from Marie while she was gone, but understanding her circumstances he wasn’t concerned. Then, one day in his office he was told that there was a telephone call for him. He walked to his desk, pushed the blinking button, lifted the receiver and said, Lieutenant Sayer.”

“It’s me. I’m back.”

He felt his heart skip a beat in happiness. “Oh, it’s so good to hear your voice. When did you get in?” he asked.

“About an hour ago. Robert, I have to talk to you.”

“ UT, oh, this doesn’t sound good. Somethings wrong. What is it?”

“Not on the telephone Robert.”

“Then where and when?”

“Meet me at the officers club. Will you be free at six?”

“Yes.”

“Then six it is.”

He heard the loud CLICK the receiver made when she hanged up.

At five fifty-five PM Robert walked into the officers club.

He stood for a moment as his eyes adjusted from the bright Hawaiian sunlight to the dim light of the club interior. Then, he saw her sitting alone at a table in the back of the room. He walked quickly to her. “ Hi”, he said bending down to kiss her.

She turned her head presenting only her cheek to him. “Damn, I don’t know what I did but it must have been a doozy. What’s wrong?”, he asked.

“Robert, sit down,” she instructed.

He took a seat removed his cap and placed it on the table.

“OK, whatever is bothering you spit it out,” he said.

“I’m resigning my commission and going home,” she said.

“Just like that. You leave me for a month, then come back only to tell me that you’re leaving the navy and going back to

Minnesota. You don’t even give me a reason. Something's happened. I don’t know what it is, but I sure as hell deserve and have the right to know what it is that brought this all about.”

“I’m pregnant!”, she said.

“That’s it? What’s so wrong about that?”

“It’s not your baby!”

Her words were like a blow to his midsection. He felt the breath in his lungs leave, replaced by heavy attempts to breathe normally again. Finally, able to talk he said, “Who is the father?”

“I told you when we first met that there was someone back home who wanted to marry me.”

“And he’s the father?”, asked Robert.

“Yes. Now, I suppose that you hate me.”

“Hate you? No. I don’t hate you. You can’t hate someone that you’ve loved and love still. I will say this I love you. You made a mistake. Lots of people do. Stay here with me. We can make it work.”

“No. Each time you look at me you’ll see my pregnancy. Each time you see the pregnancy you’ll remember my infidelity.

When the baby is born you’ll think of who I had been with. It’s not fair to you Robert. I don’t want either one of us to have to go through that.”

“ Well I understand, but I’m getting a little tired of being kicked in the ass by women. When are you leaving?,’ he asked.

“The day after tomorrow.”

“I see. Well, when you get home and if things don’t go right write me. You can contact me here or you have my New Jersey address. In the meanwhile you stay healthy and good luck in your marriage. If you need anything I’ll always be ready to help.’

With tears streaming down her cheeks, Marie said, “What will you do?”

Robert got up out of the chair, placed his cap on his head and said, “I don’t know. I’ll finish this hitch, go home, get on with my life and career. Think things over. Think of you, remember our times together. One thing I can tell you is that what I’ll be doing is stepping very, very, carefully into any future relationships with women’, he said as he walked away.

***************

On July 23, 1953, the armistice was signed between North Korea and the allies of the United Nations. It seemed that the war was over. Still, Robert Sayer went to work every day and to him, nothing had changed. One day, as he sat at his desk going over security assignments the telephone on his desk rang. He answered it, “Master At Arms, Lieutenant Sayer”.

“Lieutenant, come to Camp Smith ASAP”, said the man on the other end of the line. Camp Smith was the headquarters for the United States Pacific Command. He had no idea what they wanted him there for. After turning over the duty to another officer, Robert acquired a jeep and drove to the headquarters.

Once there he was told to see Commander Anderson. Which he did.

“Have a seat Lieutenant,” said the Commander.

Sayer took a seat in a hard, high back wooden chair and waited for the Commander to speak.

“I assume that you would like to know why you are here, said Anderson.

“Yes sir,”

“I’ll come right to the point. Right now there is a minesweeper leaving Guam. It’s the Courage, AM401. When it gets here it will resupply and refuel. Then, it will ship out for the United States. It is to go to the Philadelphia Naval Yard where upon its arrival it will be decommissioned. Before it can leave Pearl Harbor one billet has to be filled, that of an Engineer Officer. What do you know about Naval ship engines?”

“Absolutely nothing sir.”

“No matter. When you report onboard stay close, and I mean very close to your Chief Petty Officers. They’ll know more about what makes the ship go than anyone. In the mean time on your way out stop and ask a yeoman to give you every type of printed material we have on the power plant of AM minesweepers.”

“Yes, sir.”

“And, by the way. The reason you got this billet is because your record shows that you live near Philadelphia. Is that correct?.’ asked the commander.

“Yes sir, just sixty miles away.”

“Well, if they don’t discharge you, you’ll be close to home for liberty.”

“Yes, sir.”

“That’s all. Good luck lieutenant.”

“Thank you, sir.”

Three weeks later Sayer reported for duty on board the Courage. After meeting with the ships Captain and Executive Officer he stowed his gear then made his way to the engine room.

When he reached the end of the ladder he saw a Chief Petty Officer attired in blue denim who stood wiping his hands on a soiled, oil stained rag. “Attention On Deck”, the chief said loudly.

“As you were”, Robert replied. Looking at the Chief Sayer said. “Chief I’m your new Engineer Officer. Is there some place where we can talk in private?”

“Yes, sir. Follow me. We can talk over there beside the boiler.”

Robert followed the man and when they got to the boiler he looked around and then at the Chief and said, “To tell you the truth, I don’t know a damn thing about engines, motors, or anything else that makes this ship run.”

“You don’t know how happy that makes me sir. I’d rather have an officer tell me that he knows nothing about engines then pretend that he knows everything about engines. Welcome aboard sir. I’m Chief Petty Officer, Carl Dunn.”

“Lieutenant Sayer, Robert Sayer,” said the new Engineer Officer as he put out his right hand.

As the Courage made its way across the Pacific, Robert, much to the knowledge of Chief Dunn kept the four, Packard, ID 1700 diesel engines running smoothly. In calm seas, the minesweeper could make sixteen knots. At officers mess one evening the Captain announced that they would be approaching the Panama Canal the next day.

That night he tossed and turned in his bunk as the dream came to him again. This time he was knocking on the front door of her house in Wildwood. He heard her footsteps as she approached. She opened the door and asked, “What do you want?”

“I want you. I want you to come back to me.”

Janet stood silently for a moment then said, “Come In.”

His heart beat rapidly due to his happiness. It beat so fast that it woke him and in despair realize that once again it had only been a dream.

When the minesweeper entered the locks of the canal Robert went topside and stood on the deck watching the water fill the enclosure. As it did it lifted the Courage putting it in a position to enter the next lock. He turned his attention to the surrounding view, saw The cruise ship on the other side in a lock being lowered in order for it to enter the Pacific. He felt the heat of the sun in the Canal Zone and saw the workers going about the day.

A week later his ship entered the Delaware River and then into the Philadelphia Naval Yard. Once tied up to the dock Chief Dunn shut down the engines and the engine room became silent.

On his first weekend liberty, Robert took a cab to Thirteenth And Filbert and boarded a Public Service Bus to Atlantic City. Once home he changed into civilian clothes then sat and talked to his mother. “What are you going to do now that you’re home?”, she asked.

“You know that I’ll want to see Janet,” he answered.

“Don’t. You might as well know. While you were gone she got married. As a matter of fact she just recently gave birth to a son.”

“Why didn’t you write and tell me?”, he asked.

“Because your father said not to. We were afraid that you would do something crazy like go absent without leave, we thought then and we think now that it was best not to tell you.”

Robert sat silent for a moment. When he felt composed he asked, “Who did she marry?”

“ A man named Birch, Harvey Birch. He’s big in real estate and is a contractor.”

“I see. Well, at least she married well,” he said as he got up from the chair. “I think I’ll take a walk. I haven’t seen the boardwalk in some time,” he continued.

As he walked along the boardwalk he caught the aroma of hot dogs, hamburgers, french fries, popcorn and peanuts, all being cooked and prepared by the vendors. The smells took him back to a different time, to a different place. The time was when he was with Janet. The place was Wildwood. They were in love.

At least he was in love. He could still hear the sound of the music being played on the carousel. He remembered the excited laughs and screams of children who rode the different rides on the amusement pier. Most of all he recalled the feel of Janet holding on to him as the Ferris Wheel chair they were sitting in began to rock and sway. Then, reality came back to him and he found himself looking out at the ocean. As far as he could see from the shoreline to the horizon there was a vast emptiness, just like the emptiness in his heart. He turned and began to walk back home.

************

After his honorable discharge from the Navy Robert Sayer took and passed the New Jersey Bar Examination. Then he applied for a position at the prestigious law firm of Pratt, Pratt, And Parlin. At ten o’clock in the morning of Monday, May 23, 1955, Robert Sayer sat in the office of Oliver Pratt being interviewed.

“I see that you did very well on the bar exam. Congratulations. Now, since you’ve come to us with your hat in your hand, besides a position what else are you looking for?”, asked Pratt.

“A career.”

“An excellent answer sir. Now, allow me to be perfectly clear.

Our firm is involved in corporate law. Before you ask me why I’ll explain. First of all corporations, for the most part, have the ability to pay our fees promptly. Second, of all, heads of corporations generally belong to the same social groups and country clubs as the judges. So, you see, if say a corporate head is having a legal problem we’re more or less one up entering the courtroom. Do I make myself clear?”

“Yes , sir.”

“Good, now it is my understanding that you wish to work for us. Is that true?”

“Yes, sir. I want to have the ability to practice in the courtroom.”

“I see. For your information, our attorney’s in court perform handsomely.”

“So I’ve heard. As a lawyer, I hope to learn from them.”

Oliver Pratt smiled. “I would say, sir, that you have either entered this room well prepared for the interview or you are very, very intelligent.”

“Thank you.”

“Very well. I see no reason to prevent you from joining us.

Go to the Personnel Office do the paperwork and report here tomorrow morning by nine AM. When you do you’ll be assigned to one or more of our attorney’s. Good luck.”

“Once again, thank you, Mr. Pratt.’

“You’re welcome.”

“One other thing.”

“Yes, sir.”

“I notice on your application that you mention the fact that you’re single. Why?”

“ Just a guy who is unlucky in love,” Robert answered.

“We like our lawyers to be married, settled down and with families. With that, we present a sign of strength and unity to our clients. Who you marry is up to you. How you manage your marriage is something that we will be keeping an eye on.”

“If and when I marry I’ll certainly keep that in mind, sir.”

“Good and let me add that any discretion must be done discreetly. Do I make myself clear?

“Yes sir, but since matrimony is the last thing on my mind at the moment I think we’re both safe.”

“By the way, do you know what eventually happens to law school graduates?’, asked Oliver Pratt.

“No sir.”

“A students become law professors. B students become judges. Do you know what C students become?”

“No, I’m afraid that I don’t.”

“C students become rich.

 

 

 

Chapter Four

Barbara

 

By the end of 1959, Robert Sayer had appeared in court, at the beginning as the assistant attorney then alone, by himself. Often he had the ability to see either discrepancies in the charges brought against his client or loopholes that allowed for cases to be dismissed or settled out of court. As his reputation in the law firm grew so did his salary.

When he first went to work at Pratt, Pratt, and Parlin he commuted by train each morning from Atlantic City to Philadelphia. However, he began finding himself working late in his office or subjected to juries rendering decisions late in the day, making it necessary for him to relocate in the “City Of Brotherly Love.”He found a small, neat, affordable, furnished, apartment a few blocks from Spruce Street where the law firm was located and moved in. For some reason, he found that work was like medicine and being immersed researching case law and filing briefs took his mind off of bad memories and the recurring dreams he had of Janet subsided.

Robert spent that Christmas at home with his parents.

He opened several Christmas cards and found one from Chief Dunn who had retired in San Diego. Another card was from Marie. There was no written message, no note, but he held it reverently in his hand then put the card back in its envelope and placed it with the others. After Christmas, he went back to work.

On a Wednesday, late, afternoon Robert Sayer was sitting at his desk looking over a file. He looked up at the sound of someone knocking on his office door. When he did he saw Tom

Jeffery standing there. “Hey Tom, do you need something?”, asked Sayer.

“As a matter of fact I do,” answered Jeffery.

“Well, speak up. What’s on your mind?”

“I’ve got a problem, Bob.”

“What kind of problem, legal, or personal?”

“Personal,”

“Well, let’s have it.”

“Very well. You see, my wife purchased four tickets for the show, “Camelot ”. Then she arranged a blind date for a friend of hers.”

“And, let me guess, the guy that was to be the blind date backed out at the last moment and you want me to take his place,” said Robert.

“How did you know?”

“Let’s say I’ve been in this position before. Now, tell me. What do you know about the woman I’m supposed to rescue the night of the show. I hope that she’s not a dog.”

“She’s not, believe me. Her name is Barbara Wilson. Her father is in real estate and investments.”

“How old is she?”

“I’d say mid twenties.”

“If she’s not that old why isn’t she married?”

“I don’t know. Maybe she’s particular.”

“Alright, do I have to pick her up or meet her at the theater?”

“You can meet her at the theater. She’ll be with us. It’s the Susan Roberts theater. Do you know where that is?”

“Yes. What else do I have to know?”

“Dress is suit and tie. Dinner after the show is at Bookbinders. Naturally the tickets and dinner is on me.”

“It should be. What time?”

“Can you be there at seven thirty? The curtain goes up at eight.”

“I’ll be there. No problem.”

Instead of driving his own automobile and having to park it in a garage, then walk to the theater, Robert took a taxi.

When the Yellow Cab pulled up in front of the theater

Robert looked quickly though the rear door window and saw Tom standing with two women. Both of the women were attractive. The problem was he didn’t know which woman was his date. He got out of the cab and paid the driver, reaching through the passenger side window when he did. Then, he turned and waved back at Tom who had his hand up in the air.

When he got to where the three people were standing Tom said,

“Hey right on time. Allow me to introduce you first to my wife, Sandy, Sandy this is Robert Sayer the man I was telling you about.”

“It’s a pleasure meeting you”, Robert replied.

Sandra Jeffery smiled.

“And this lovely lady is Barbara Wilson,” Tom continued.

Robert looked at the young woman, seeing an attractive well groomed, expensively attired female, who wore a silver fox jacket which covered an expensive, black velvet dress trimmed with gold florets. She was petite and when he took her hand she looked into his eyes sending a message. He took the message to mean that she approved of him. Her hair was light brown, shoulder length and noticeably in fashion and kept that way by her hair dresser and beautician. When she spoke, saying, “It’s nice to meet you Mr. Sayer,,” her voice was soft, and gentle.

“The pleasure is all mine I assure you, And, please call me Robert.”

“What if I prefer,”Bob”.

“Then Bob it shall be. I might even come running to, “Hey You!”

Barbara began to laugh at his statement.

“Shall we go in?” asked Tom Jeffery.

“After you.” said Robert to Barbara.

Tom Jeffery and his wife had purchased orchestra seats for the show and after being shown to their seats by an usher

Barbara decided to take off the fox jacket. When she stood to do so, Robert stood to take it from her. When he did his heart skipped a beat. Four rows in front of him sat Janet. His Janet.

She, like him was with friends and he watched her smile and occasionally laugh at whatever conversation she was having. He wanted to go to her, climb over the rows of seats in front of him. He wanted to take her in his arms and say, “ Can’t you see the mistakes we both made? Can’t you see that we belong together?

You know I love you. Come with me now. Let’s start all over. Come to me. I love you so.”

Instead he took the silver fox jacket, gently removing it from Barbara Wilson’s shoulders and after she sat down he did the same, placing the fur on his lap.

Even though the show and the music was excellent Robert sat through most of it looking at the back of Janet’s head. The only time he took his eyes off of her was when he applauded with the rest of the audience. One song affected him deeply, “If Ever I Would Leave You”. During the rendition he felt Barbara’s head turn as she looked at him. He turned, his head, looked at her, smiled and whispered, “That was beautiful”, pretending that he was alright.

At intermission, the house lights came on and both Sandy and Barbara headed for the ladies room along with most of the women in the audience. Robert remained seated and watched Janet get up out of her seat and move slowly in the row and then on to the carpet covered, walkway. He quickly got to his feet. This made her turn her head and look at him. As she did she turned her head and moved quickly towards the lobby where refreshments were being served. Robert sat down again. She had seen him. He knew that she did. She had seen him and ignored him and it was like someone had stabbed him in the gut. He fought the disappointment along with the sadness and offered a false smile when Barbara and Sandy returned.

After the show and a late dinner at Bookbinders in order to get Janet out of his mind he gave his full attention to Barbara. “So, lovely lady, tell me all about yourself,” he said to her.

She smiled and said, “What would you like to know?”

“Everything but your deepest secrets. I’ll find them out later.”

“Is that right? You’re mighty sure of yourself, aren’t you?”

“From what I’ve been able to detect in our short time together you like assurance. Particularly in men.”

“Let’s use the word man. The word men could indicate that

I’m a party girl. I’m not.”

“I knew that the moment we met.”

“Good, then we won’t have any unpleasant situations will we?”

“Not with me. However, I do anticipate some disagreements.”

“How so?”

“Oh, let’s see. Whether or not you would like to sit in the cold in Shribe Park watching the Eagles or in the heat watching the Phiillies. Drive down to Atlantic City swim in the ocean, lay on a blanket on the sand. Dance in the ballroom of the Steel Pier. Sit in my living room and listen to my record collection.”

“Where is your living room?

“Right now it’s just off of Spruce Street. However, I’m thinking about moving out of my apartment and into a condo.”

“Have you selected a condo yet?”

“No, I’m just in the planning stage.”

“Let me know when you are ready. My father owns several buildings. I’d be glad to show those that are available to you.”

“I’ll keep that in mind. Now you haven’t answered my questions.”

“Oh. I’m sorry. Let’s see Shribe Park in the winter. I’ll have to think about that. I’m not a big fan of baseball. Trips to the beach in Atlantic City. Where do I change? I have no intention of using a bath house.”

Robert laughed. “Of course not. You’d stay and change at my parents home. Believe me, you’d be well chaperoned.”

“Oh. Then the trip to the beach is OK.. Will we dance on the same weekend?”

“We can dance anytime you want.”

“I will say you think fast on your feet. You must be a wiz in the courtroom.”

“The secret is to think like the jury, but don’t tell anyone.”

“The is one stipulation,” she said.

“And what would that be?”

“Before I jump in a car and ride to the seashore with you I want you to meet my father and mother. If they approve of you then we proceed. If not, what is the saying? All bets are off?”

“That’s the saying.”

“Good, then that’s established. What’s next?,” she asked.

“Getting you home. Getting your telephone number and hopefully getting a kiss good night.”

“Well the first two are possible. I’ll have to think about the last one.”

“Take your time. I’m in no hurry.”

“Once again, quick thinking. Thank you very much for a wonderful evening Bob.”

“It was wonderful, wasn’t it?”

Two weeks later, Robert drove his Mercedes to Chestnut Hill. He rode slowly on St. Andrews Avenue looking for the house number Barbara had given him. When he found it he pulled his car into the circular driveway, shut off the engine and got out. When he did he gazed upon a gray stone, Tudor home. Looking at the slate tiled roof and then the chimney, guessed that the home contained one or more fireplaces. He walked slowly to the front door, rang the doorbell then wiped his feet on the doormat.

A uniformed butler or doorman answered the door and opened it. “Mr. Sayer to see Miss Wilson, said Robert.

“Good afternoon sir. The Wilson’s are in the library. If you would be good enough to follow me I shall show you the way.”

“Before you do, what’s your name?’, asked Robert.

“I’m referred to as, Charles sir.”

“Well Charles, it’s nice meeting you”, said Sayer.

The servant stood for a moment bewildered. “Follow me sir,” he said leading the way.

When they reached the library entrance Charles said, “A Mr. Sayer calling upon Miss Wilson sir,” speaking to the head of the house.

Barbara went quickly to him. “I’m so glad that you’re here. Did you have any problem finding the place?,” she asked.

“No. Your directions were perfect.”

“Good, come I want you to meet my mother and father. Mother this is Robert Sayer, the man I have told you about.”

“Hello Mrs. Wilson. It is a pleasure to meet you. I can see where your daughter gets her beauty.”

“Then that makes me an old, ugly son of a bitch, right?”

said the man Robert assumed was Barbara’s father.

“Ugly no. But, I must be honest you have been referred to as a son of a bitch by a lot of my clients,”Robert replied.

“Probably a bunch of assholes that didn’t know their ass from their elbow. Anyway, I’m Harry Wilson, the father of the girl that you are in all truth is trying to bed. Let me warn you, if she’s anything like her mother she’ll have to have a wedding ring on her finger before you can lift her nighty, said Wilson.

“Father! Robert please forgive me. I’m so embarrassed.”

“Don’t be. I like a man that speaks his mind and as your father I interpret his words as, to be a gentleman or move on.”

“That’s exactly right son. What’s it going to be?, asked Wilson.

“I’m always a gentleman sir.”

“Good. Sit down. Would you like a drink, cigar?.”

“Nothing sir.”

“Now, it’s my understanding that you’re an attorney. That right?”

“Yes sir.”

“Independent or with a firm?

“I’m with Pratt, Pratt and Parlin.”

“Really? Why are you working with a Jewish law firm?”

“Many reasons, most because they took me immediately out of law school and gave me a job. Since you mention the fact that the partners are Jews let me advise you that the majority of the clients that come to us are Jews. We provide the service, they pay the legal fees. Our success in court then brings in Gentile clients.”

“ I see. Damn good answer. In spite of my language and appearance I’m not anti-Semitic.”

“I took it that you were just testing me sir,” said Robert.

“Damn daughter, you’re right he does think fast on his feet. Now, let’s get down to business. Barbara tells me that you’re looking for a condo. That right.”

“Yes sir.”

“ I have one that might interest you on Rittenhouse Square. Are you interested?”

“I’d like to see it first.”

“I noticed you didn’t ask about price.”

“What’s the old saying? If you have to ask the price then you can’t afford it.”

“Damn if you ain’t something. You sure you don’t want a drink?

“Positive.”

“Harry, stop talking and taking up the man’s time. He came here to see Barbara not to listen to you and your foul mouth. Come with me we can watch television in my sitting room,” said Mrs. Wilson.

Harry Wilson got up, looked at Robert and said, “You’ll stay for dinner. We can talk business and after that sort of shoot the shit. OK?”

Robert laughed. “It’s a deal. Thank you for the invitation.

When the Wilson’s left the room Barbara turned to Robert and said, “I hope that you’ll excuse the behavior of my father. He’s always been outspoken. At the same time I see him as a diamond in the rough so to speak.”

“Don’t worry about it. My Dad acts almost in the same way. He is what they call a know it all. If you were to listen to him he would come across as knowing more than the President of the United States, Congress. The United Nations, the Pope, and most doctors and college professors.”

“Really?,” asked Barbara with a smile.

“Oh, absolutely. One of the saddest days of my life was when as a boy I found out that my father, my hero, didn’t always know what he was talking about.”

“ You will stay for dinner?”

“Of course. Your father, as he said, wants to shoot the shit, so to speak.”

“You know that he’s testing you, don’t you?”

“Of course, but I’m not too concerned about passing his examination. I’m only interested in how I’m doing with you,” Robert replied.

“So far, so good.”

At dinner, Harry Wilson wiped his mouth with a napkin then turned to his guest and asked, “So, tell me, this Korean thing were you in it?”

“Yes sir.”

“Really? How so?”

“I was in the Navy.”

“Did you see combat?”

“Briefly.”

“What do you mean briefly?”

“I served on the USS Fortescue, a destroyer. We took fire from enemy shore batteries. Three men were killed. I was one of the wounded.”

“Why?”

“Why? We might have gone in too close.”

“So, do you blame the Navy or the Captain of your ship?”, asked Wilson.

“Let me put it this way sir. Who ever was watching over us,

whether it was the Almighty, Thor, Hercules or Zeus, forgot to tell us that the North Koreans had artillery also.””

“Well put sir. So you don’t blame anyone. Now, allow me to change the subject. Since you’ve met my daughter you must have an impression. If you could, what would you change?”

“I’d make sure she took cooking lessons. She’s lived a life of privilege and probably doesn’t know how to boil an egg.”

Harry Wilson began to laugh. “Son of a bitch if you’re not right. What do you think of that daughter?”

“At the moment, not too much,” Barbara answered.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Five

Cummings And Blankfield vs Wilson

 

Two months later Robert looked up at Ann Peterson, his Secretary as she entered his office and stood by his desk. “There’s a Mr. Harry Wilson asking to see you. Since he has no appointment what is your pleasure?”, she asked.

By all means send him in,” said Robert.

When Harry Wilson entered the office Robert stood to meet him and while shaking his hand said, “Good to see you again sir. How is Mrs. Wilson?”

“Meaner then cat shit. Now, the reason I’m here is there are a couple of son of bitches out to get me. I need a lawyer. A good lawyer.”

“Excuse me, but I would think that a man in your position already has a lawyer,” said Robert.

“Naturally. But I said I want a good lawyer. The assholes I have on retainer are worthless, particularly in this case. They want me to settled out of court.” said Wilson.

“Well, suppose you just sit back and tell me just what’s going on.”

“Very well. As you know I own and operate a conglomerate.

Of the several businesses in the organization one is a savings and loan. Well, it seems that two depositors, one Manfred T. Cummings and Albert Blankfield are suing me for fraud.”

“Can you be more explicit?, asked Robert.

“Yes. They’re claiming that I and when I say I, meaning the Saving and Loan company deliberately ignored red flags indicative of fraud by advertising high rates on returned transactions and that we also ignored warnings from other banks.”

“Before we go any further I want you to know that what ever you say now or in the future about this matter will be considered privilege conversation between a lawyer and a client, even though right now you’re only a prospective client.”

“Yeah, yeah. Will you take the case?”

“Before I decide, are you guilty and don’t bullshit me. I don’t like surprises in the court room.”

“Do I look like some dumb son of a bitch that would own an operate a Savings and Loan operation and then deliberately

hurt my investors. Of course I’m not guilty.”

“Very well. I have to place your case before the partners, but I’m sure that they will agree to take it. If you want me to represent you, you yourself has to request it. Meanwhile,

have whoever is running the business to send me any and everything pertaining to this case. Understand?”

“Yes.”

“Good, give me a few days to look things over. I need to know who the complainants lawyers are. That way I can contact them and possibly resolve this situation without going into court.”

**********************

After three days in court Robert Sayer got up from the table where he had sat day after day listening to the lawyers representing Cummings and Blankfield. He walked slowly, expressing calm as he walked to where the members of the jury sat. Then, he began to speak. “Ladies and gentlemen, first, I would like to thank you for your kind indulgence of having to sit here listening to the if not false, certainly insulting complaints against my client. I also want to thank you, because all of you and I know that the accusations are totally rubbish. As a matter of fact, what the plaintiffs have done over the past seventy two hours is waste not only my time, but your time as well. Now, with your permission I will present evidence that will show not only the fact that Mr. Wilson did not commit fraud nor did he in any way violate any rules governing banking.

The plaintiffs claim. No, make that the plaintiffs say, that the Savings and Loan owned by Mr. Wilson sent out false claims of high interest to be paid on investment transactions. They base this on the flier that was mailed and sent to all depositors as well as future depositors. Now, you have seen the flier. How did it read? What did it say? Allow me if you will to refresh your memory and that of the court. The flier read and definitely stated that, “Due to the status of the economy, the Unified, Confederate Savings And Loan Company of America offers an interest rate of eight per cent on all deposits. Eight per cent ladies and gentlemen. Eight per cent and the plaintiffs are complaining. If you will allow me ,I will go to a chart and present to you some very interesting facts.”

Robert waked to where a metal tripod held a large, pad. He raised the cover and with a folding pointer used it to emphasize what he was about to talk about. “What we have here ladies and gentlemen is the Movements In Time relating to Savings and loans for the years 1951 to present. Now, let me advise you to sit back, relax and take this all in, because what you are about to hear is going to amaze you.

Now then, from the year 1951 to present, liquid asset holdings of the public increased substantially. Here, is where I respectfully request that you pay attention. Savings in commercial banks, shares in savings and loan association and deposits in mutual savings banks increased on the average. Let me repeat. On the average on the annual rates of, thirteen per cent, thirty per cent and six per cent, respectfully. Now, what does this mean to you? What it should mean is that one, the plaintiffs, Cummings and Blankfield realized more than average interest income on their investments. Two, that with an average interest rate of six per cent, my client advertised, promised and produced an interest rate of eight per cent. Ladies and gentlemen. I ask you now. Where is the fraud? Where is the deceit? We both know there is none. The fact that other banks warned that interest rates would fall to six per cent and the plaintiffs claim they were not warned of this? Remember my client still offered and paid eight per cent. According to the plaintiff, merchants in and around Philadelphia in dealing with Mr. Cummings and Mr. Blankfield contacted Unified and requested information about their accounts. Banks and Savings and Loan organizations are called everyday. Why? The general request is does the depositor have enough funds on hand to cover such and such expenses. The institutions can only respond one way. With a simple no comment. However, a question raises it’s ugly head. The question is, why? Why did merchants and other businessmen constantly call for information on the deposits of Cummings and Blankfield? Could it be because of their past business tactics? As a matter of fact, is this frivolous law suit a mere, unethical, attempt to make gains financially against my client? I ask you now to render a not guilty verdict for my client, Thank you.”

The following Monday Robert was called to the office of Melvin Parlin. When he walked in he was told to take a seat.

Mr. Parlin looked at the young lawyer for a while then said, “Congratulation on winning the Wilson case.”

“Thank you sir.”

“Do you know that he’s decided to do away with his current legal representatives and go with us?,” asked Parlin.

“No sir.”

“Well he has. Do you know what that means?”

“No, I have no idea.”

“That means that you just brought a multi-million dollar enterprise to our firm. You, my young man are on your way to becoming a partner. Keep up the good work.”

“Thank you Mr. Parlin.

“Would you like to know why you haven’t made partner before this?”

“Certainly.”

“You’re still single, a bachelor. Need I say more?”

“No sir.”

***************

On a early, Saturday afternoon Robert and Barbara walked through the empty, fifth floor condominium located in Rittenhouse Square. Well, what do you think? This one has three bedrooms, two baths, plenty of closet space where the last one had only one bath,’ said Barbara.

“I’m still thinking about the first one you showed me” said Robert.

“That was a one bedroom, one bath and it’s on the other side of town.

“Well, I don’t know. All of them need furnishing and decorating. Let me ask you something. If you had to live in any of the three that you have showed me, which one would you select?”

“This one,” Barbara replied.

“Why?”

“It’s a corner condo. Gives you a great view. I’ll admit that it’s expensive, but look at it as an investment. I can almost guarantee that in the future should you decide to sell it my father will buy it back.”

I don’t know. The windows need drapes. You don’t like the rugs.”

“If you want I can give you a name of a great interior decorator.”

“Have you used this person before?”

“Oh yes. Mildred Hemple is her name.”

“I see. How would you like to work with her and have this place done the way you vision it?”

“That would be delightful. I must tell you that she’ll require a deposit.”

“Fine, tell her that when she’s ready she’ll either get a check from me or Barbara Sayer.”

Barbara stood in silence trying to catch her breath. Finally, able to speak she asked, “Are you proposing?”

“Yes if you’ll have me,” he answered.

“Yes, yes, yes. Now hold me and kiss me.”

“Why don’t you wait until you see the ring,” he said as he took the ring box out of his pocket. I hope you like it,” he replied.

“Back at the residence in Chestnut Hill Barbara and Robert walked into the house. “Mother! Father! Come quick I have news,” said Barbara loudly.

The Wilson’s got up from their chairs in the den and walked out toward the entrance way. “And, just what the hell is the big news? It damn sight be good, making me get up with this bum knee of mine,” said Harry Wilson.

“Robert has asked me to marry him,” Barbara said excitedly.

“Son of a bitch. That is good news. I was afraid you’d live here with us forever. Congratulations son, but let me warn you. She takes after her mother and can be a real pain in the ass at times.”

“Thanks a lot Harry”, said his wife as she then began to hug first her daughter and then Robert.”

“I’ll tell you what. For a wedding present I’ll either give both of you a condo or a million dollars. What do you say?” ,asked Harry.

“Father! I don’t come with a dowry. It’s like you’re bribing him to marry me,” said Barbara.

“Quiet daughter. Well, what’s it going to be?”

“We’ll take the condo. I’ll make my own million dollars,”

said Robert.

“The following weekend Robert took Barbara to Atlantic City to meet his parents. His father, Frank was happy to meet his future daughter in law. Mary, Robert’s mother like most mothers thought that that although she liked Barbara, her son could do better.

In the time they spent in the two story home in the Inlet section of the city Barbara slept in Robert’s bedroom. Robert slept on the sofa in the living room. After breakfast on Saturday they went to the beach. That evening as planned they went to the Steel Pier and danced to the music of Ralph Marterie. Robert glided Barbara across the dance floor she said, “I didn’t know you could dance this well”.

“Arthur Murray”, he replied.

“Well, you got your money’s worth.”

*******************

The wedding took place at Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church in Chestnut Hill. The reception was held at the Philadelphia Cricket Club, also in Chestnut Hill. Harry Wilson was a long time member.

Robert and Barbara spent their wedding night in the condo on Rittenhouse Square and the next day flew to London to begin their honeymoon. They had decided to do what they called, “The Big Three,” visiting London, Paris and Rome. They would be in Europe for a month.

In London they stood and viewed Buckingham Palace. Saw Westminster Abbey and Number Ten Downing Street. At times they ate in street restaurants, experimented with fish and chips and bangers and eggs for breakfast. In the evenings they visited the pubs and drank. warm, beer.

The visit to Paris meant that Robert sat in the many boutiques as Barbara shopped. He was able to convince her to stop buying when he informed her about the duty she would have to pay upon their arrival home. She agreed.

Instead of beer they now sampled fine wines and champagne. The ate French cuisine cooked with lots of butter and they both tasted escargot for the first time. Barbara had a difficult time chewing them, while Robert had no problem at all. They both passed on the frog legs. They visited the Louvre and the National Museum of Modern Art.

In Rome they took in the typical tourist attractions. They saw the Colosseum, the Pantheon, St Peters Basilica and visited Vatican City. Again, like Paris they drank fine wines and ate Italian cooking. Then, it was time to return home. Instead, they wired home, telling family and the legal firm that they needed another week, then made arrangements to fly to Spain. In Madrid they went to the bull fights, marveled at the reaction of the fans in the arena seats. Finally, their tour of Europe was over and the couple flew into the International Airport of Philadelphia.

Robert Sayer sat at his desk reading information pertaining to the next case that and been assigned to him upon his return to the firm. He sat and relived the handshakes, slaps on the back and the questions of how he was enjoying married life. “Married life? Am I enjoying it? I guess so. I love Barbara. I love being with her. Still, there’s something wrong. What is it? I have to admit that it’s not the same kind of love that I had with Janet. This love for Barbara is different, so different. With Janet she was all I thought about from the beginning of my day to the end of the day. With Barbara I’m content knowing that she loves me. Yet, I want to have that same feeling, that same kind of love that I had with Janet and so far it’s not there. I want it to be there. I want that feeling again.”, he thought to himself.

Robert now immersed himself in his work. Barbara worked with the same charities that she had worked with before her marriage. Once or twice a week she drove her white, Mercedes W207 convertible into Chestnut Hill to visit her mother either at home or at the Cricket Club for lunch. Her mother always inquired about her happiness and Barbara constantly assured her mother that she was very, very, happy.

By winning case after case in court and bringing more corporations and corporate heads legal business to the firm Robert was made partner. He stood on Spruce Street and watched the names on the sign hanging over the entrance to the building, Pratt, Pratt and Parlin change to Pratt, Pratt, Parlin And Sayer. There were times when he sat and thought about his life.

Now, approaching his late thirties, professionally he had done well. From a young college student who washed dishes at night in a restaurant, to a young naval officer wounded just off the coast of North Korea to becoming a budding attorney, he had done well for himself. From a kid in the inlet of Atlantic City he had married well and entered Philadelphia Society. He was financially secure. Still, something was lacking.

Long a Philadelphia Eagles fan he had purchased two season tickets on the forty yard line, row thirty at Franklin Field hoping that Barbara would join him. She didn’t. On the Sundays that he went to the home games she visited her father and mother or one of her girl friends

At the first pre-season game Robert settled into his seat. As he looked over the printed lineup he held in his hand he stopped and stood to allow a young, attractive blond woman pass by him in order to take her seat. It was two seats to his right.

The woman looked at him and smiled. He smiled back. Then, he decided to speak to her. “I notice that the seat next to you is empty. Is it one of yours?”, he asked.

“Yes, unfortunately my husbands not a real fan. He bought the tickets last year attended one game and hasn’t been back since. I usually take one of my girl friends to the games. And, since you mentioned it, I see the seat next to you is vacant also.

“Yep, the wife isn’t into any sports except swimming or playing tennis at her club.”

“How nice for her. And, you are?”,the woman asked.

“Sayer, Robert Sayer.”

“Jane Collins.”

“Nice to meet you Jane Collins. And what do you do Jane Collins?”, he asked.

“ Do? Oh, I’m the chief bottle washer, vacuum cleaner operator, cook and sometime concubine to my husband, the idiot, William Collins.”

“Now, it can’t be that bad”, said Robert.

“Really? Your married. Why is the seat next to you vacant? You know what happens to romance? It flies out the window right after the wedding ceremony. You can bet if you were still courting she would be sitting right here, biting her lip because she had to pee so bad. Married now? She’s at home or where ever. So, what about you. What do you do?”

“I’m an attorney.”

“Really? Great, I might need you when I get ready to dump this dumb bastard I’m legally attached to.”

“Sorry, I don’t handle divorce cases?”
“Naturally, oh well, it’s nice meeting you anyway Robert Sayer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Six

Jane

 

On Sunday, October 6, 1963 Sayer and Jane Collins sat and watched the Philadelphia Eagles beat the Dallas Cowboys by the winning score of 24 to 21. In the excitement of the win those in the stands stood and hugged each other. Robert found himself hugging Jane. He noticed the he enjoyed it, especially when she made no motions to move away. He looked into her blue eyes and said, “Hey, we won.”

“Yes, yes we did, she answered.

“Now what?, he asked.

“Now, it appears that another game is to begin,” she said.

“Looks that way. I’m game if you are,” he said.

“Let’s go some place to either have a drink or a cup of coffee and talk this thing over. I don’t think that either one of us want to get into something over our heads,” said Jane.

“Good idea. Do you know where the Cosmic Bar is?”, he asked.

“Yes.”

“Since we both have to move our cars, let’s meet there.”

“Alright”, Jane agreed.

Later, they both sat in the dimly lighted restaurant and bar nursing the drinks that were on the table before them. “Alright, let me start. We both know that there is an attraction between the two of us. Since we’ve only recently met it can’t be love. Therefore it has to be a sexual attraction. Do you agree?”, asked Jane.

“Certainly.”

“Good that gets that out of the way. Now, what about you?

Have you cheated on your wife before?”

“No.”

“But you’re willing to cheat now. Why?”

“I don’t know.”

“You had better know. Let me tell you something, just so you know where you stand. I haven’t cheated on Mighty Mouse either. But I’m so damn bored I’m going out of my mind.”

“You refer to your husband as, Mighty Mouse?”

“Yes. The idiot thinks he’s a flamboyant lover. If he last three minutes I’m lucky. So, what are we going to do? If your not interested just say so and I’ll get up from this booth, go home and see you at the next home game pretending that nothing had happened.”

“Before we make, say a commitment, let me ask you something. How often are you going to be able to get away from home?”

“To meet you? Once or twice a week. don’t worry about me. you’re the hot shot attorney living on Rittenhouse Square. We both have our reputations to worry about. You have more to lose than I do. Hell, all I lose is William Collins.”

Robert reached back and removed his wallet from his rear pocket. From it he removed a business card. “Here take this. Call me at the office on Wednesday. By then I should have a place in mind where we can meet and be alone.”

“And who shall I say I am when your secretary asks who I am?”

“Tell her that you are Doctor Andrews receptionist calling to verify my next appointment.”

“Let me tell you something. For a guy who has never cheated on his wife you seem to have a lot of answers.”

“Do you think so?”

“Yep, I just hope you can satisfy one of my questions.”

“I’m almost certain that I can.”

The following Wednesday, at ten o’clock in the morning Robert’s secretary told him that he had a telephone call on line three. “Who is it” he asked before taking the call.

“The receptionist from your doctor, Doctor Andrews.”

“Thank you”, he said as he then pushed the button with the flashing, white light. “This is Robert Sayer,” he said.

“Good morning handsome. How are you?”, asked Jane.

“Actually, very well,” he answered.

“Well, you said to call. Here I am.”

“Yes you are.”

“You sound like you’re thinking things over. I get the impression that you’re changing your mind. Are you?”

“No. It’s just that I don’t know where or when we can meet.”

“You’re a big boy. I’m sure you’ll figure things out and get an answer. Tell you what. The Eagles are away this Sunday. I’ll call this time next week. By then you should have the answers. If not, then we can end this thing.” He heard the click of her hanging up the receiver.

When the call ended Robert felt relieved. Nothing had happened. Still, he had had the thought of being unfaithful to his wife. “Why? He asked himself mentally. Sure, Jane was attractive, and available, but she came on to him, not him to her .I’ve seen and been around hundreds of attractive women, but never wanted to sleep with any one of them. Why the difference now?

The telephone call came the next Wednesday and exactly ten o’clock in the morning. “Hello”, he said

“Hello yourself. Well? I’m listening,” said Jane.

“Do you know your way around Olney,” he asked.

“Yes.”

“Are you free Friday evening?”

“I could be,” said Jane.

“Alright. Go to 2901 Godfrey Street. In the lobby you’ll see the brass, mail boxes in the back wall. Open box 27. It’s unlocked. In the box you’ll find the key to apartment twenty seven. Go on up to the second floor, unlock the door and go in. I’ll be there just as soon as I can”.

“Very good. Now, was that so hard?”, she asked, giggling as she hanged up.

On Friday, Robert told his wife that he had to meet with a client about a legal matter. He also said that he didn’t know just how long he might be and not to wait up for him.

Barbara sat reading a magazine, listened to what he said and nodded her head. When she did, he felt the guilt come again to him. Still, he leaned over and kissed her.

He parked his Mercedes two blocks away from Godfrey Street hoping that the expensive automobile would be safe there.

At the same time he didn’t want it seen parked on Godfrey Street near the furnished apartment he had rented under the name, Allen Bridges. As he walked, a cool evening breeze was blowing. When he got to the apartment house complex he opened one of the heavy doors, entered the lobby then made his way to and up the stairs. Using his key he unlocked the door, entered, then closed and locked the door behind him. When he turned he saw Jane standing there.

“Well, well. You made it. I thought sure that you would have changed your mind. You’re full of surprises. I can’t wait to see what else is on your mind,” she said walking to him then placing her arms around his neck and giving him a long kiss on the lips.

When they parted Robert looked around. He saw a large paper bag on the kitchen table. “What’s in the bag?”, he asked.

“Two bath towels we can use after we shower. Two glasses.

A thermos bottle of whiskey sours and a change of underwear for me,” she said

“And you still say that you’ve never cheated on, what do you call him? Mighty Mouse?”

“It’s true, but that doesn’t mean I never thought about it.”

“I see. Now, what do you think of the place?”,he asked.

“Well, considering that we will probably only use it once or

twice a month it’s both convenient and better then some cheap motel.”

“I agree.”

“Good, now do I keep the key or do we play Huck a buck a bean stalk and put it back in the mail box for me to find each time we meet?”

“You keep it.”

“Fine. Now, go sit on the sofa. I’ll pour the drinks and I’ll be right with you.”

He then sat and watched her as she walked towards him carrying a drink in each hand. She came to him, handed him a glass which he took from her and then she sat down next to him.

She took a sip from her glass then placed in on the coffee table in front of them and then said, “Well, here I am.”

Approximately three hours later their meeting was over.

“I suggest that one of us leaves first,” said Robert.

“That would be me. Tell me. Are you having second thoughts,” she asked.

“No.”

“I have another question,” she said.

“What is it?”

“What do we do when the Eagles season is over?”

“I don’t know.”

“Better think about it. Good by. Thanks for a beautiful evening. I needed that,” she said as she opened the door and left.

They met again at the next, home, football game. Sitting in their own, particular season ticket seats she turned her head and said, “Do you want me to sit next to you?”

“No”, he replied.

“Why not?”

“Because television camera directors have a tendency to have the cameras turned on to the crowd. Someone out there might see us sitting together and realize that we shouldn’t be.”

“Mighty mouse doesn’t watch TV.”

“No, but you can bet that someone he knows that also knows you would spot us and tell him.”

“It must be nice to always have the right answer. Is it?

“In this case? Yes.”

“Are we dining after the game?”, she asked.

“If you want.”

“Let’s go some place different.”

“No.”

“Why not?”

“Because where we go is safe from prying eyes. I know the Sunday crowd. Going someplace else leaves us open to scrutiny. Something we really don’t need.”

On a Monday morning at nine o’clock the partners met to discuss several things on the agenda. Before the meeting ended

Melvin Parlin turned to Robert and said, “Robert? how’s your health?”

“Surprised by the question he stammered as he answered.

“Fi, fi, fine. Why do you ask?”

“The word around the firm is that you are receiving telephone calls from your doctor. I’m just hope that it’s nothing serious.”

“It isn’t. Just a routine check up. Doctor Andrews is keeping a check on my cholesterol, whatever that is”, said Robert.

Walking back to his office his mind was racing. “How did Parlin know? Someone had to have told him. Who? Ann, my secretary. She has to be the one. Now,the telephone calls must stop. I have to find another way of communicating with Jane.

How? I don’t know, but I’ll think of something,” he thought to himself.

His decision came later. They decided that he would call her. He would call between nine and ten AM on Wednesdays. If her husband was home she would say, “Wrong number.”

The result was that they met at the ball games every two weeks. They also kept the same schedule when meeting at the

apartment. Then, as Christmas approached he began to realize that all they had in common was the torrid love making. For him the novelty of the relationship was wearing off. He wanted to end it, but didn’t know how. The affair was even affecting his career. For the first time he had lost in court with the judgment being awarded to the plaintiffs.

About the same time the dreams of Janet returned. Once again in his dreams he was begging her to come back to him. In the last dream he was sitting on the beach. As he did he gazed out upon a blue/ green ocean. A rainbow appeared and at the height of the arch Janet stood looking at him. She appeared to be listening. In the dream his heart beat with excitement as he waited for her answer. There was none. Janet turned and walked away and the rainbow faded out of sight. He woke, realize that it was just another disappointing dream. A dream with the same result.

One night at the apartment as they lay in bed, Robert said, “there’s something I want to tell you.”

“Oh, good. I have something to tell you too,” said Jane.

“This has to end. We mustn’t see each other any more. Not like this anyway. I’m sorry, but I can’t go on like this any more, he said.

Jane raised up on one elbow and looked at him. “You can’t go on like this anymore? Why? I never asked you to leave your wife. I didn’t ask you to make me an honest woman. I’ve never even made any demands on you that I know of. Yet, you want to end it. Fine, but let me tell you what I have to say. I’m pregnant. Mighty Mouse thinks it’s his, but I know it’s yours. So Mr. hotshot attorney, here’s what we’re going to do. You with all your money and connections are going to get and give me something that gets rid of this pregnancy. Then, I’ll abort this baby, leave you and hope to never see you again. So, our next meeting which had better be a week from now is when you hand me the pills or whatever.Got it?”

“How in the hell can I get my hands on something like that?”, he asked.

“That’s one of your problems, the other is this fetus growing inside of me,” she answered as she left the apartment

“The next day in his office, Robert made a long distant telephone call to a friend of his in Atlantic City. When the man on the other line said hello? Robert said, “Norman? Robert Sayer. I need a favor.”

“Hey I haven’t seen you in years, how have you been?” asked Norman.

“Fine. The reason I’m calling is because a friend of mine has a young son that has a girl in trouble.”

“Oh brother. Do you know how far along is she?”

“No, but I want to help his father out of this situation if I can.”

“I see, but why call me?”

“Knowing that you’re a pharmacist you’re able to put your hands on certain items.”

“By doing that and aiding in an abortion is illegal in New Jersey.”

“I’m aware of that. Let me put it another way. The father is willing to pay for what you can supply.”

“How much?”

“A thousand.”

“Make it two.”

“No problem.”

“What do you need?”

“I don’t know, that’s why I called you. came up.”

“ There’s a couple of things available both are pills, Now then, you come down here. Bring the two grand. I hand you the pills with directions and warnings. After that, you’re on your own.”

“Saturday?”, asked Robert.

“Sounds good.”

Three weeks later Ann Peterson buzzed the intercom.

“Yes,” he said.

“There’s a Mrs. Collins on line two. Do you want to take the call?”, asked Ann.

“Yes, thank you. He picked up the receiver and said, “How are you?”

“I’m fine. I spent a couple of days in the hospital. Me with no insurance. Mighty Mouse is depressed because he thinks I lost his baby. Incidentally, it was a boy.”

“Well, that’s what you wanted, to get rid of it. The main thing is you’re alright.”

“Thank you, but I’m still stuck with a hospital bill and no money to pay it.”

“Send me the bill. Place it in a large, business type envelope and mark it confidential. That way my secretary won’t open it.

“OK, thanks Robert. See you at the games.”

By the year 1965, Robert Sayer was almost back to normal mentally. There was no longer any guilt hanging over him effecting his life or his work. He won again in court winning two large cases that resulted in large awards to his clients as well as the collecting of large legal fees for the partnership. Still, for some reason he still kept the furnished apartment in Olney. The only thing that was different were the locks on the door had been changed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Seven

Helen

 

During the next three years Barbara Sayer gave Robert two children. The first, a boy was named John Francis Sayer, after Robert’s grandfather. A daughter born next was named Harriet after Barbara’s father, Harry. As a result Robert settled down. To him his philandering days were over. In his mind he could now sit back and enjoy the merits of life, those things that hard work and dedication to his law firm had brought him. Still, occasionally the dreams about Janet came and went. They were always the same, only the setting was different. One time they would be on a beach. Another time either in front of her house or inside her house. Then it would continue with him begging her to forgive him and she saying that she would think about it. Each time he would wake in disappointment and be depressed for the rest of the day.

As the days and weeks passed by he found that although he enjoyed being a father, he noticed that his wife had changed. Where at one time most of her attention was on him, now it was

hat of a duty. To him it appeared that she couldn’t wait to get it over. When this happened the depression returned. As time passed the depression increased and being directed to their children. Her once passionate love making now turned into somewcontinued. Finally, one day he decided to take control of things and he made arrangements to see a psychiatrist. And an appointment was made to see Doctor Phillip Mano. The psychoanalysis began.

Entering the year 1970 Robert Sayer had been diagnosed as having a paranoid personality disorder. He harbored suspicions about people in general who in his mind were out to be hostile towards him. Doctor Mano believed that Robert’s mental problem was that no matter how he tried no man really liked him and no woman could ever love him. His mania had began when his love for his father was rejected. Frank Sayer never wanted his marriage , but when he impregnated Roberts mother, then out of wedlock the marriage became a trap. Every time that Frank looked at the son he had he saw the reason for being in that trap. This, according to Doctor Mano caused a deep seated need to be loved in Roberts mind. In seeking love he had found Janet. She then, like his father rejected him. All the other women in his life including his wife became a test. A test to see if indeed their love was real. Unfortunately, when the love was real, he refused to believe it.

Even with therapy the dreams continued to happened. Doctor Mano tried to convince Robert that the reason was due to the guilt he carried within himself. The guilt was that he lost her by not deferring himself from the war. Deep inside himself he still carried that guilt believing that had he listened to her things would have been different and that she would be with him now.

As he sat at his desk in the law office he made the decision to stop seeing the psychiatrist and he called the doctor’s office and canceled his next meeting. Once again, unknown to him the paranoia was still there. His opinion now was that the doctor was wrong, didn’t know what he was talking about and was only treating him for the fifty dollars an hour sessions.

At one of Barbara’s charity events Robert sat under a cabana. It was a very warm day in the Philadelphia area. A hot, beaming sun beat down on the white canvas top of the tent like structure. Although warm, he was comfortable. Fortunately he had dressed casual, but knowing the weather of the day wore white slacks, and a powder blue golf shirt, white loafers and socks that matched his shirt. He then sat sipping on a large glass of ice tea. As he sat and watched his wife talking to other members of the club, members that he wasn’t too much interested in joining in conversations his attention was diverted when he saw a middle age woman walking towards the cabana.

When she entered Robert stood and asked., “Had enough of the sun and heat?

“Oh my yes. One never knows exactly how the weather will be when they sit down and plan these events. I’d assume the plans for this charity were made in January. Now, here we are fighting off heat stroke.”

“Perhaps you would like a cooling beverage,” said Robert.

“That sounds wonderful,” said the woman.

“No problem,” Robert said signaling a waiter.

When the waiter came to the cabana Robert said, “Bring the lady what she would like and I’ll have another ice tea.”

“I’ll have an ice tea also,’ the woman replied.

“So, since we’re the only two intelligent people here that know how to handle the heat let me introduce myself. I’m Robert Sayer,” he said.

“I’m Margaret Benson, but I go by the name, Helen.”

“Benson? Benson? Is your husband Rupert Benson, of Benson and Benson?”

“Yes and you are Robert Sayer of Pratt, Pratt, Parlin And Sayer,” Helen replied.

“Actually only Monday to Fridays,” Robert responded.

“Have you ever met my husband or perhaps faced him in court?”

“No, I’ve never had the pleasure. Where is he now?”, asked Robert.

“He’s out on the golf course. I hope he had enough sense to rent a cart. It’s too hot to be walking about hitting a ball and chasing after it on foot.”

As she spoke Robert watched her. She, like the other women there was dressed casually, but in the latest fashion. She was well built. He had noticed that when she was walking towards the tent. At the same time she wasn’t fat, but solid appearing as one in excellent health and not prone to dieting.

She had a beautiful tan and he imagined the tan covered every inch of her body. Her hair, strawberry blond reached her shoulders. As she spoke to him she looked at him with green eyes. Their conversation was interrupted when the waiter brought their beverages.

When the waiter left Robert watched her take a sip from the tall glass. “Ah, very refreshing,” she said.

“So, Helen Benson, tell me all about yourself,” said Robert.

“There’s not too much to tell. I was born and raised here in Chestnut Hill, graduated for high school, went to Penn and got a degree.”

“A degree in what?”

“Mr. Sayer. Surely you know that girls brought up in our social circles go to college for two reasons. The first is to study and get a degree in Liberal arts. The second reason is to marry well. I’ve done both.”

“Good for you.”

“What do you mean?”, she asked.

“Behind those beautiful green eyes I can detect a bit of sadness. You mention the social circle for girls. Over the years, after marrying someone that was in that social circle I discovered something.”

“And just would that be?”

“That most of you society girls practically enter per-arranged marriages. In most cases the love they thought was there quickly fades away.”

“That may be, but be assured I love my husband deeply and he loves me.”

“Like I said before, good for you.”

Helen Benson got up quickly out of her chair. “Thank you for the cold drink Mr. Sayer. I think our conversation is over.”

“Make that Robert. Call me that the next time we meet.”

“And you believe there will be a next time?”

“Oh yeah.”

Helen Benson walked away quickly and didn’t look back.

Two weeks later Ann Peterson buzzed him on the intercom.

“Yes?” he asked.

“You have a call from a Mrs. Benson. Shall I put it through?”

“Yes.”

“Line three.”

“Thank you,” he said as he pushed the flashing button. “Robert Sayer and how are you, Mrs. Benson?,” he asked.

“It’s now ten thirty in the morning. I’m coming into the city to shop. Can we meet for lunch somewhere?’, she asked.

“Certainly. Do have any particular place in mind? I know it won’t be Horn And Hardarts,"" he replied.

“Very funny. How about Lew Tendlers. Do you know where it is?”

“Yes it’s on Broad and Locust.”

“See you there, say about twelve thirty.”

“Twelve thirty is is.”

“Bye”, she said hanging up the telephone.

At noon Robert took the elevator down to the buildings lobby and as he walked towards the revolving doors placed his sunglasses over his eyes. He then stepped out on to the sidewalk, hailed a taxi and was then on his way to Lew Tendlers. When he got there he went inside, smiled at the hostess and said, “Thank you, I see who I’m meeting for lunch.” He then walked to the rear of the restaurant where Helen Benson sat in a booth facing him. “Let me give you a little advice. When a beautiful woman like you enters a place like this alone then takes a booth in the back of the room people might get the impression that you’re cheating on your husband.”

“But, I’m not and haven’t,” she replied.

“Not yet.”

“And, just what makes you think I will?”, she asked.

“What other reason would you have for meeting me like this?”

“Maybe I’m curious.”

“You know the saying. Curiosity killed the cat.”

“I’m aware of that, but the way I see it, you have just as much to lose as I do.”

“Only there is a difference.”

“What difference?”

“In matters like this, the man when discovered is referred to as a, rogue. The woman is considered less, usually a home wrecker or a tramp.”

“I don’t see myself as a home wrecker and I’m certainly not a tramp. I think that things at your home are like mine. Barbara is involved in raising the kids and working for her charities. Therefore, she’s neglecting you, particularly in bed.

My case is similar, except with Rupert I’m bored out of my head.’

“So, what you’re telling me is that you’re looking for excitement in your life,” said Robert.

“Yes. Now, what do we do? It’s up to you.”

“Do you know your way around Olney?”

“I can learn.”

“Good. Just as long as you know you entering into this thing with your eyes wide open.”

“They are.”

“Good. Now, lets order before others start putting two and two together.”

A week later Barbara made arrangements to take the children to the zoo. At the same time Rupert Benson was signed up for a golf tournament. Helen sat waiting in the Olney apartment. When Robert got there he took her in his arms, feeling her next to him. He smelled the sweet aroma of the shampoo in her hair. He felt the softness of her lips when he kissed her and he wanted her, wanted her then and now. They made love the rest of the afternoon.

A month later Robert received a telephone call from Rupert Benson. Sayer froze when his secretary mentioned the name. His hand shook as he reached for the telephone receiver.

Picking it up he said weakly, “Robert Sayer Mr. Benson, how can I help you?”

“I’ll come right to the point. Your firm is representing one,

Ronald Heath. After studying the case, we ,representing the plaintiff have come to an agreement. The agreement is that we’ll settled out of court for fifty thousand dollars. Are you willing to do that?”, asked Benson.

“I’m willing, but I can’t commit my client with out advising him.”

“I understand. If and when you reach an agreement please call me,” said Benson.

“I certainly will,” Robert replied.

“Have we met? Your name is very familiar,”said Benson.

“No, I haven’t had the pleasure.”

“I know what it is. Your wife held a charity event at the Cricket Club. You bought my wife a drink because of the heat.”

“I ordered her an ice tea.”

“Drink? Tea, whatever. Anyway let’s make it a point to get together some time. It could be that we can throw some business each others way.”

“Perhaps, hey, have a good day,” said Robert. He then placed the telephone on the cradle.

On a Friday morning Robert asked Barbara if she would like to take the kids down to Atlantic City to see his parents. She declined saying that she was tied up with one of her charity events. He packed a suitcase and when he went to his automobile placed the valise in the trunk. He then drove to work, parked his automobile in his marked, reserved place and exited, sliding out of the drivers seat. He took the garage elevator up to the fifth floor, stepped out of the elevator and walked into his office.

He stopped to say good morning to Ann and asked her what his schedule was for the day.

You have three pieces of correspondence that require an answer. I have laid them out on your desk. Read them, familiarize yourself with them and when you are ready to dictate an answer buzz me,” said his secretary.

“Fine, I might be leaving early today. I’m driving down to the shore to see my parents.”

“Oh, how nice.”

Visits to his parents meant a fifteen minute conversation usually,” how have you been? How are you now? Where are the children? And why didn’t Barbara come?” After that his father and mother just sat looking at him.

He got up early then drove to Wildwood. He knew the address where Janet now lived with her husband. Now, she had two children, both boys. When he drove slowly past her house he saw the basketball backboard, hoop and net attached over the double door garage. He gazed upon the large two story home with a red brick front. As he did thoughts came to him. This should be ours. Our home, our kids. We should be together. She should be with me, not him. He stopped thinking as the front door opened and Janet stepped out on to the concrete porch of the split-level. He wanted to jump out of the automobile, run to her, take her in his arms again. Then, she turned and went back into the house. It was just like his dreams. She only appeared for a moment, then, she was gone.

In early fall some charity held a white tie, ball event and Barbara insisted that they attend. Robert danced with his wife and for the first time in a long while was enjoying himself. First, the orchestra was excellent, Second, he enjoyed dancing. He stood applauding at the end of one dance and was waiting to hear what the next tune would be when Helen Benson walked up to them.

“Barbara dear. Just because you are married to this man who appears to be the best dancer on the floor doesn’t mean that you can keep him to yourself all evening. Mr. Sayer, can I be so bold as to ask you to dance with me? With your wife’s permission of course.”

Robert fought the uncomfortable feeling that had suddenly began to come over him. He looked at Barbara.

“Of course Helen. I must find Hazel King about a matter of importance. Robert dear, dance with Helen,” said Barbara

When the music began Robert took Helen in his arms. He didn’t hold her close. He made sure there was plenty of room between them. As they danced he said with a forced smile on his face. “You’re getting careless.”

“Why haven’t you called?’, she asked.

“I’ve been busy, busy at work. I had to go down to the shore to see my parents.”

“You still could have at least called me.”

“I told you. I’ve been busy.”

“I want you Robert. I want you bad.”

“Shall I take you right here on the dance floor?”

When the music ended she said, “Call me. Call me soon.”

then she walked away.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Eight

Divorce

 

On a cold February, day on a 1973, weekend Robert once again drove to Atlantic City to see his parents. As usual, he was alone. His mother had called and asked him to drive down. They had some news to tell him. When he got there he settled down in an easy chair in the living room and said, “Now, what’s the news you want to tell me?”

“Well, as you know, we’re both retired now. We both have our pensions and social security. Being that as it may, we’ve decided to move to Florida,” said Frank Sayer.

Robert sat silent for a moment, then said, “Well you both have earned it. Where in Florida?”, he asked.

“Between Sarasota and Fort Myers,”said Frank.

“The West Coast?”, said his mother.

“Good. I’ll miss you of course. Still, airlines fly into that area every day. I’ll fly down from time to time,” said Robert.

“Excellent, well that takes care of that,” said Frank Sayer.

“When will you be leaving?”,asked Robert.

“Probably in May. The house is being built right now.”

Frank answered.

“I see. Is there anything else I should know?, Asked Robert.

“Not really. You should know about this of course,” said Mary Sayer handing her son a newspaper clipping.

Robert read the bold print first reading, “Atlantic City Press, Cape May Edition. Then he read, Divorces. Harvey Birch

From Janet Birch. He didn’t read the rest. “She was free. She was single,” he thought to himself as he handed the clipping back to his mother.

“Now, I hope your satisfied. I told you in the beginning, just before you left for the Navy that she wasn’t worth caring about. Now she’s divorced. I understand her ex husband has custody of the boys. You know what that means,” said Mary Sayer.

“No, I don’t. What does it mean mother?”

“It probably means that she was running around, being unfaithful, cheating on her husband. Why else would it mean. The proof is that her ex husband went to court and got custody of his sons. you’re a lawyer, how do you see it?”

“I don’t know. Actually, I really don’t care.”

Three weeks later while sitting in the black leather covered , high back desk chair. Robert sat thinking. As he did he tapped a yellow, wooden pencil on the green blotter that covered most of his desk top. “Where is she? Is she alright? Does she need anything? Why did they divorce? Who cares? She’s free. Find her.

Talk to her. Convince her that what ever happened happened in the past. He didn’t care. He just wanted her to come to him, to come back to him”, he thought to himself.

“He reached for the address book he kept on his desk. Then, after opening it ran his index finger down a list of names, the names of private investigators that the law firm used from time to time. He stopped moving his finger when he came to the name, James Hogan. He reached for the telephone, lifted the receiver and then looking at the telephone number listed next to Hogans name dialed it.

The telephone Robert was calling rang several times then a man answered, “James Hogan.”

“Mr. Hogan. This is Robert Sayer of Pratt, Pratt, Parlin And Sayer.”

“Yes sir. How may I be of service.,?”

“We can discuss that in my office say one o’clock tomorrow afternoon,’ said Robert.

“Fine sir, see you then.”

The next day James Hogan sat patiently in Robert Sayers office waiting for the attorney to speak. Robert reached for the intercom on his desk, pushed a button and when Ann Peterson responded, he said, “Hold all of my calls.” He then turned to Hogan. “Let’s get started. First, your fees will be paid by me personally, not the law firm. You will hand carry all of your bills to me here in the office. The investigation I want you to undertake is of a personal thing to me. What you find is to be kept confidential, just between you and I. Do you understand?”

“Yes sir.”

“Good. I want you to investigate one Janet Birch. Here is the last known address I have of her. As you can see, it’s in Wildwood. She recently got divorced from one Harvey Birch, also of Wildwood. I want to know why they divorced. Now, then, I also want to know where she is. She might be using her maiden name, it’s Campbell.”

Hogan wrote notes in a small folding tablet. When he was finished he asked,”Anything else?”

“No. I’ll wait to hear from you. Let me know when you have something,” said Robert.

When he arrived home that evening he was met by Barbara who stood in the door waiting for him. He could tell that something was bothering her. “Is something wrong?”, he asked.

“I would say so. I was at the club today playing bridge when one of the women at the table mention Helen Benson. Would you like to know what she said?,” asked Barbara.

“Not in particular,” said Robert in an attempt to be remain calm.

“Well, I’m going to tell you anyway. She said that there is a rumor that Helen Benson is having an affair with a husband of one of the club members. As she was talking she looked directly at me.”

“Probably just your imagination. What does this have to do with me?”

“I’ll tell you what it has to do with you. I called Helen Benson. We had a very long conversation on the telephone. Would you like to know what she had to say?”, asked Barbara.

“No, but you’re going to tell me anyway.”

“Oh, you are so right. She told me that you and her have been running around for some time. That you meet in an apartment that you rent under an assumed name. The place where you two meet is in Olney, on Godfrey Street.”

Robert slowly walked past his wife as he did he said, “Looks like she didn’t leave anything out did she?”

“No she didn’t.”

“Now what?”, he asked.

“Now what? Here’s what. Fortunately for you she and I come from the same social set. She can’t afford a scandal and neither can I. So both of us will go on pretending that you two have never cheated on your spouses. The price you both pay is that the affair is over. You get rid of the Olney apartment and if and when you two come in contact with each other you both smile and pretend that you never made love to each other. Do you understand?”

“Suppose I want a divorce?”, he asked.

“I can do two things. One refuse to do it or agree. If I agree that means I take you to court. I’ll take you for every cent you own Robert. At the same time your partners will force you out of the firm. you’ll be finished here in Philadelphia. Certainly the clients you have now will desert you when they find out that you’re if nothing else, unfaithful to your wife.”

“I’m sorry, truly sorry,” he said.

“I don’t want to hear it. Not now anyway,” said Barbara as she turned and walked into the living room with tears in her eyes.

****************

Weeks went by and the relationship now between Robert and Barbara were strained, but they remained cordial. She continued doting over the children and her charities. He immersed himself in work. His parents moved into their new home in Florida and Harry Wilson dropped dead of a heart attack at his home in Chestnut Hill. Robert did his best to comfort his wife. At Harry Wilson’s viewing Sayer sat beside his wife as people paying their respect first viewed the body in the casket then went to Harry’s widow and Barbara to offer their condolences. One was Helen Benson. Barbara went through the motions not wishing to make a scene. She released her anger on the drive home with her husband and children.

“Can you believe the nerve of that bitch!”, she said loudly.

“Maybe she just wanted let you know that she was there out of respect for Harry.”

“Respect? She doesn’t even know what the word respect means.”

“Calm down. It’s over. She won’t be at the funeral tomorrow.”

“How do you know? Have you been talking to her? Did you know that she would show up tonight?”

“Of course not.”

“Then why are you so sure she won’t be at the funeral?”

“I don’t actually know. It’s just a feeling I have. Trust me.”

“It’s a little late for that, wouldn’t you say?”

“Then call her and tell her to stay away. It won’t be the first time you called her is it?”

Robert drove the rest of the way home in silence.

**************

James Hogan finally made contact with Robert and after making himself comfortable in the law office sat back, opened his note book and began telling Sayer what he had found.

“It seems that the divorce was caused by infidelity. Her infidelity,” said Hogan.

“With who?”, asked Robert.

“It’s hard to say. As far as I can tell she had many partners. However, at the same time by talking to people who know her she seemed to have changed from the loving wife and dedicated mother to something else.”

“What else?”

“I would say that she gradually had an increasing mental problem.”

“I see. What else?”

“She moved out of Wildwood and settled in Somers Point.”

“Atlantic County, that’s strange.”

“Really? I wouldn’t know. Anyway, right now she’s living in the Admiralty Apartments, Unit 227.”

“That’s it? Nothing else?’

“She’s held menial jobs, working in Seven Eleven and places like that. Evidently she loses these jobs either by not showing up for work or because of erratic behavior”.

“I see. Where’s she working now?”

“In a place called Danny’s. It’s located on the circle between Somers Point and Ocean City.”

“I know where it is. OK, how much do I owe you?”

“Here’s my bill including expenses.”

“By the way, do you know the hours she works?”

“Yes, the morning shift. She does breakfast and lunch. Seems her day off is Monday.”

Robert looked at the bottom figure, reached into his desk drawer and removed his personal checkbook . He then wrote out the amount due, signed his signature and handed the check to Hogan.

“Nice work. Stay loose. I’ll be in touch with you in a week or two,” said Sayer.

“Yes sir.”

When Hogan left the office Robert leaned back in the high back chair. Deep in thought he searched mentally, then asked himself questions as to what he should do. “There is only one answer. I have to go there, see her, learn her condition. Once I have done that, then I can determine the next move,” he thought to himself.

That weekend, he drove down the Atlantic City Expressway.

He told Barbara that he had to attend to a legal problem which might necessitate petitioning the New Jersey courts. He wasn’t lying. Since his parents had sold the house in the Inlet and had moved to Florida he now had to rent a room in a motel. He chose one in Somers Point.

The next morning he parked the Mercedes in the parking lot of the diner, got out and locked the doors to his automobile and made his way inside. A hostess holding several large menus asked him if he would like a booth. He chose the counter. Once seated he looked briefly at the large, plastic covered menu then placed it back where it had stood upright in a metal stand. He then held his breath as Janet appeared walking out of the kitchen. He looked at her, studied her, remembering how she looked when they had been together. She hadn’t changed that much. She still wore her hair in the page boy style. Naturally, she had changed, but so had he. She appeared to be a bit thinner and instead of the constant smile she use to maintain it had been replaced with a look of sorrow. She walked up to him, looked at him and said, “What would you like this morning?”

He felt the shock and disappointment when he realized that the woman he had loved and kept in his reverie over the years now didn’t seem to even remember him. “Bacon and eggs. Eggs over easy and toast. No potatoes. I’ll have a cup of coffee now please,” he said.

When she brought his breakfast to him Robert decided to engage Janet in conversation hoping that it would shake her memory. “How long have you been a waitress?”, he asked.

“Actually, too long,” she replied.

“You appear to be an intelligent woman. I’m sure you could do many other things other then being a waitress.”

“Maybe, but I enjoy being a waitress. Would you like me to refill your cup?”

“No, thank you.” He watched Janet turn and walk away still with no idea who she had been talking- to.

Back at the motel Robert lay fully clothed on the bed deep in thought. “She’s not the same woman I knew before. She seems to be able to function in society, but not as the original Janet Campbell. Now, she’s someone else. Something has changed her, taken control of her. Hell, I’m no psychiatrist but I’m willing to bet that whatever has happened it’s a dual personality thing. The question is, how to protect her without her knowing? At the same time how to get her treatment, treatment over her objections.”

He got up off of the bed, packed his suitcase with the soiled clothing he had worn the day before. At the motel office he paid his bill and checked out. Then he drove back to Philadelphia.

Entering the law firm building in the late morning he said hello to the security guard on duty in the lobby. After taking the elevator to the fifth floor he entered his office and walked to the rear wall where he kept his legal library. He looked carefully then selected a book on New Jersey Statutes. He carried the book to his desk, sat down and after opening the book turned the pages. He stopped turning when he found, “Quality of Laws:D.

Taking a white, company envelope he used it for a bookmark and closed the volume. Robert stood up walked to the elevator and took it down to the lobby. There he said good by to the same guard, went to the garage, entered his automobile and drove home.

On Monday morning Robert Sayer sat looking at the closed law book on his desk. As he sipped a cup of coffee he again began to concentrate on the situation. “Should I do this? All I have to do is say, Hey! This isn’t my problem. When she was normal she rejected me, not only me, but my love. Yet, here I am. Like some damn fool acting like a school boy fawning over a woman that I don’t even know any more or recognize. Still, after all of these years I have to sit back and ask myself would I give up everything if she and I could be together. Everything? Barbara, the kids, position, wealth? Would I give it all away? I must admit. I don’t really know anymore. Ten, fifteen years ago I would have jumped at the chance. Now, I ask myself, what good would it do?

However, there is some good that I can do.” He reached over and opened the law book.

Using the intercom Robert said to Ann Peterson, “Ann,

see if you can find the number for A lawyer named Adam Beckman. His office should be somewhere in Atlantic County, New Jersey. If you find it, place a call. I wish to speak with him.’

“Yes, Mr. Sayer.”

Fifteen minutes later Ann buzzed n the intercom and said,

“Mr. Beckam on line one sir”.

Robert picked up the receiver and said, “Adam. Bob Sayer here. How have you been?”

“Not bad. Not as good as you, but I’m getting by. I haven’t seen you since law school. What’s on your mind?”

“I want you to represent me in court.”

“Why? As I recall you’re a member of the New Jersey Bar.”

“It’s rather complicated. Are you familiar with New Jersey Statute S 30:4-27.16. ?”

“Not off hand.”

“It deals with the court having the ability to set the criteria for need-for-treatment for the mentally ill.”

“Oh yeah.”

“Good I want you to go into court, operate under that statute and make me either the guardian or advocate for one, Janet Campbell. I’ll have my secretary type up and send you all the information you might need on this person. Alright?”

“Sure. No problem.”

“Make sure you send me your bill. Send it here to my office.”

“OK. Talk to you later.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Nine

Doctor Mano

 

The years went by quickly. To assure himself that Janet was well taken care of, he, through the contacts of James Hogan, hired a security firm to watch her. They were to watch her from a distance and only to interfere with her life if and when she was in danger. From someone or herself. Robert made sure that she was observed from a distance by female security personnel.

In 1978 gambling casino’s were allowed to open and operate in Atlantic City. The partners of Pratt, Pratt, Parlin And Sayer

elected to see if they could acquire a retainer from one or all of the casino’s. Since Robert was the home town boy he was sent to meet with the casino operators.

On a Tuesday afternoon Robert sat in the office of Gregory Hasson. As he did he carefully appraised the man in silence, saw a well groomed middle aged man who was beginning to lose his hair. “So, Mr. Sayer, let’s get down to business. We both know why you are here. I’ll save you some time. We, naturally have our own corporate lawyers. You see, this isn’t our first venture into the casino business. We’ve been operating for several years both in the islands, and Europe. At the same time, as the new kid on the block, so to speak, here in Atlantic City, we feel that it would only be correct to use local attorney’s. When I say local attorney’s I mean those from Atlantic City.”

“I see. Thank you for being candid. I appreciate it,”said Robert.

After leaving the casino and it being a Tuesday, Robert looked at his watch, noticed that it was only eleven thirty in the morning. He then decided to drive to Somers Point and see Janet.

When he entered Danny’s Diner he headed for the counter, took a seat and waited for her to appear. Instead a rather plump,

gray haired waitress waited on him. “Yes sir? What can I bring you?”, she asked.

“A cup of coffee and a ham and cheese sandwich on rye,”

he replied. Then he asked, “Where’s Janet? Isn’t she working today.?”

“Janet? No. She’s no longer with us”, said the woman.

“Why? Was she fired or did she quit?”

“I have no idea. I just know that she left.”

“Alright, thank you,” he said, disappointed.

Back in Philadelphia he made a late afternoon telephone call to James Hogan. When Hogan answered Robert said, “Did you know that Janet Campbell no longer works in the diner in Somers Point?”

“Really? No, I didn’t”, said Hogan.

“Then what the hell am I paying you for? I told you I wanted her watched, watched for her own protection. Not only is she not protected, but you don’t even know what she’s up to or doing.”

“Hey, Mr. Sayer. Calm down. It’s not me. It’s the security company that’s supposed to be watching her. They haven’t told me anything about her not being at the diner, “ said Hogan.

“Is that right? Well you unload the incompetent bastards and find someone who knows what the hell they’re doing. Understand?”

“Yes sir.”

“Good. I want to know where she is and how she is. Call me as soon as you hear something.”

“Yes sir, I sure will.”

Three days later James Hogan called. “Mr. Sayer, Janet Campbell quit her job, gave up apartment and left New Jersey.”

“What? When? Where did she go?”

“ To answer when, it was approximately a month ago. Where? I appears that she was heading for Florida.”

“Florida? Alright, find her. I want to know where she is, understand?”

“Of course.”

**********************

A week later Robert Sayer sat once again in the quiet, office of Doctor Mano. “So, you have reconsidered and wish to resume therapy I take it,” said the psychiatrist.

Not really. I came here today to ask you some questions. I need to know about the mental condition of a dear friend of mine.”

“I see, and I assume the friend will remain anonymous.”

“Of course.”

“Alright, let me hear it.”

“A woman who I was friends with several years ago changed from a well educated, dedicated wife and mother into a promiscuous female who has had several sexual partners. At the same time her personality has changed. She no longer seems to recognize anyone from her past.”

“ When you say anyone, you mean you of course.”

“Yes, can you tell me what’s wrong with her mentally?”

“Well, what we do know today is that these type of females let’s refer to them as patients, have one thing in common, they use sex as a means to escape anxieties. They use it like a drug to allay their economic insecurity, to lull the fear that they are unwanted, despised and unlovable to hop them up to the point where they can trap and dominate men.”

“I see, but what causes it to happen?”, asked Robert.

“Off hand, I’d say your friend was in a bad marriage. Did she have children?”

“Yes, three boys.”

“Well, it’s possible that the love she wanted from her husband was instead given to the children. Men usually accept this in women relating it to the motherly instinct. Every once in a while it appears in women resenting the husbands attention to the offspring and not to her.”

“What about the fact of not remembering people?”

“All of the symptoms that you have told me can be labeled under the term, schizophrenia. For me to tell you what else is involved I’d have to see her professionally.”

“I understand. I assume your bill will be the same.”

“Oh yes. Incidentally, I suggest that you return and continue our sessions,” said Doctor Mano.

“When I have time Doctor. When I have time.”

****************

Six months went quickly by and in that time Hogan was unable to ascertain a definite address for Janet Campbell living in Florida. Then, he was able to gain information by reading the obituaries. Leroy Campbell, her older brother age sixty seven died. The obituary listed his relatives, one was Janet Campbell of Saint Petersburg, Florida. Then, with information from a friend of his in the telephone company he was able to get not only her telephone number, but her address as well. He quickly notified Robert.

After listening carefully Robert said, “ Alright, I want the same arrangement. I want to make sure that she is alright, if she needs anything and that’s she safe. Is she living alone.” he asked.

“Right now I don’t know. What I do know is that she’s living in a small condo. Actually the place was an apartment building on Thirty Fourth Street. The owners refurbished, then called the units condominiums. She paid thirty thousand dollars for the place.”

“Thirty thousand? Where did she get the money?”

“Who knows. It could be part of an alimony and divorce settlement.”

“OK. I want to know if she’s living with someone. If it’s a man I want to know who he is.”

“No problem.”

“Good by.”

Robert Sayer sat at his desk thinking. “I want to see her. I want to know where she is, where she’s living. I need to know that she is alright and not in any danger. For that matter I have to know that she is not dangerous to anyone else. Time to go. Time to fly down there and see for myself. At the same time I’ll take Hogan with me. I want to see first hand the security set up I’ll be paying for. The last bunch didn’t even know that she had moved and left the state. I’ll have Ann call and make the arrangements. Two first class seats from Philadelphia to Tampa.”

When he arrived home he saw Barbara sitting in the living room. His daughter, Henrietta was also there. Both appeared to be melancholy. “What’s wrong?”, he asked.

Barbara just turned her head and looked at him,but said nothing. Henrietta said, “Mother has just come from the doctor.

According to him she has a bad heart. It’s weak, she will need a pacemaker.”

“When?”, Robert asked.

“As soon as possible. Tomorrow,” said Henrietta.

“Alright, then tomorrow it is. What else did he say?”

“He said she has to take it easy and not exert herself in any way.”

“OK. That means no more tennis and you should cut back on these charities that you go around chairing. I’ve seen you fret over table settings, flower arrangements and how much money was raised for charity. According to you it is never enough. All of that, dear wife places stress on you, whether you believe it or not.”

The next day Robert and Henrietta waited at the hospital as Barbara Sayer underwent the procedure of installing a pacemaker. The doctor suggested that Barbara stay in the hospital for twenty four hours to insure that she was alright and that the pacemaker was working properly.

On the drive home, Robert looked over at his daughter. For the first time he realized how much she and her brother meant to him. His son, John had become an architect, had his own business and was doing well. Henrietta, like her mother got a degree from Temple, then married well. Her husband Tom Bennett was away with the Pennsylvania, National Guard.

Robert then realized just how much Barbara meant to him.

He loved her. True, the heat of passion was never there with her.

He found passion with other women and when he did it would result in one kind of problem or another. Problems that he and he alone caused and brought into their lives. It didn’t completely destroy their marriage, but it certainly damaged it. Still, Barbara who had every right to leave and divorce him stayed with him. For the first time in his now fifty four years of life realized what love and loyalty was. Now, she was ill. He didn’t want to lose her. Not now. Not ever. At the same time he still found himself committed to helping Janet. She had been his first love. He had not only loved her, but had been obsessed with her. Although over time and circumstances his love for her had cooled he knew that she was troubled. In all probability mental illness had changed her life. She needed help. As far as he knew there was no one else available to look after her. He could afford to do it and would. He sent for Hogan.

James Hogan listened intently to what Robert Sayer had to say. “I want you to fly down to Florida. When you land in Tampa rent a car, drive into Saint Petersburg and photograph the building she’s living in on Thirty fourth Street. If possible get a picture of her. I want to be able to see how she looks. Next, I want you to meet with Bryon Smothers. He is my legal representative if Florida. Originally, I wanted the same arrangement I had in New Jersey, in that I’d be the advocate or guardian of Janet should it need be. However, Florida law is different. In short, Florida requires that one must take a training course before becoming an advocate or guardian. Naturally, I can’t or won’t do that. Therefore, I want you along with Smothers to interview and select someone, a woman or women naturally, that can and will fill that position. Smothers is aware of my desires in this matter and he also knows the financial arrangement. On your way out stop and talk to Ann. She’ll make all the arrangements for your airfare, car rental, lodging meals and anything else you’ll need. If you run into any problems down there and I mean real problems call me either here at the office or at my home number.”

When he arrived home late in the day he went to Barbara who stood looking out of the condo window. “How do you feel?”, he asked.

“A bit tired”, she answered.

“Then rest. What did you do today?”

“Not too much. I did a little dusting.”

“Then, why do I pay for a cleaning service?”

“I have to do something Robert. I can’t just sit all day.”

“ I want you to take it easy. I don’t want to lose you. In case you don’t know it. I love you,” he said taking her in his arms.

A week later Robert opened a small, manila envelope. From it he removed three color photographs. The first was of a white, stucco two story building with the numbers 2121. He turned it over and read what Hogan had written on the back. “ Condo Units.” The next two photo’s were of Janet. He studied them closely, even using a magnifying glass in order to get a better look at her face. She looked the same. For some reason, to him she wasn’t aging. “Maybe, it’s possible that I don’t want her to age, to change. Maybe I want to remember how she was back then, back when we first met, back when I thought that she loved me,”

he thought to himself. He stacked the photographs then slid them back into the envelope. After that he opened the middle drawer of his desk and placed them inside.

Ten days later James Hogan met Robert for lunch. As they sat waiting for their meal to be brought to them, Hogan said,

“It’s my understanding that Mr. Smothers has been in touch with you.”

“He has,” Robert replied.

“Then you know that the Florida advocate is in place.”

“Yes. What I want to know now is did you check into her background?”

“Certainly. Her name is Mildred Parsons. She’s a Registered Nurse and coincidentally has experience as a psychiatric nurse. At the same time two, women from the security firm I hired on your behalf will keep an eye on Janet. Their orders are to notify the nurse if they see or suspect any abnormal behavior. In essence, if you want my opinion your friend is being well looked after.”

“Good. Did you bring your bill?”

“Yes sir,” said Hogan as he removed a white envelope from his inside coat pocket.

Robert took the envelope, removed the bill, read it, then took out his checkbook, wrote the amount and signed it.

As the months went by the reports that came to him from Florida were positive. There were no signs of stress. Janet continued to live alone and when men showed up at her condo they didn’t stay long. The women assigned to Janet reported that they followed her to a pharmacy. It was found, when she threw away an empty container that she is taking Molindone.

Robert looked up the medication the Physicians Desk Reference and found, “ Molindone is used to treat certain mental or mood disorders, such as schizophrenia. This medicine helps one to think clearly, feel less apprehensive and able to take part in everyday life. It can reduce aggression and the desire to hurt one’s self or others. It may also help to reduce hallucinations, such as seeing or hearing things that are not there. Molindone is a psychiatric medication that works by helping restore the balance of certain natural substances such as dopamine in the brain. It is usually taken by mouth, without food one to four times a day.”

“The question is, how many is she taking a day and how long has she been taking it?” He thought.

He made a note to have his question answered.

Satisfied that Janet was alright Robert at the same time concerned himself with Barbara. To him she didn’t look well. She continued to lose weight, refusing to eat claiming that she had no appetite. Her doctor prescribed medicine but, she refuse to take the medication. As a result, to Robert she appeared to be shrinking away.

****************

Over the next two years Robert received constant reports on Janet. She was working in a travel agency in Saint Petersburg.

To Robert it made sense due to the background she had along with the experience of working in Wildwood. The reports also included her mental state viewed by Mildred Parsons. It had been determined that Janet had gone from taking three Molindone to one a day. Robert read the reports then destroyed them. He then wrote the checks, paying for Janet’s security.

Now, assured that Janet was doing well Robert then devoted his time to Barbara.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Ten

Fort Lauderdale

 

Robert Sayer sat at the banquet table that had been placed on a stage. As he did he looked out at the tables where young lawyers of the legal firm, clients, and a few judges sat listening to one of the speakers honoring him. Next to Robert sat his wife, Barbara. The banquet was Roberts retirement dinner. Now, at age seventy one and fighting on coming Parkinson’s Disease it was time for him to step down. He would retire with a handsome pension and dividend’s from shares in the law firm. He would be financially secure. As he sat his mind wandered and he thought back over the years. He saw again the mirror ball in the ceiling the night of the graduation dance at the university."That's where it all began. Janet, my first love. At the time I thought she was my only love. Would both of our lives been different had we stayed together? Who knows? She made me choose, her or the Navy. What else could I have done? I had to go. so I went and when I did she left me, married someone else.

Funny, actually her life went down hill while mine was constantly on the rise. I gained so much, position, money, a loving wife, two wonderful children, both now successful, both who have given me grandchildren.

Unfortunately, for most of my adult life I led the life of an imposter. I traveled in professional and social circles appearing as the dedicated partner of a law firm, the adoring husband and father while most of the time I was a cad, a philanderer. I had extra marital affairs and never enjoyed it. Why? because I was constantly looking for someone to love me. I wanted the type of love that Janet had given me in the beginning of our romance. Then, I lost it. I wanted it back. I wanted to feel that way again. I never have. One question has always been with me ,with Janet was it love, passion or both? I don't know the answer. The only thing I know is that feeling, that special feeling I had with her has never returned with anyone else. It came close with Marie in Hawaii. Close, but not completely.

Now, I sit here tonight, being honored. Honored for what, doing my job? if anyone should be honored it should be Barbara, my wife. She never gave up on me. She stayed with me, honored her wedding vows, "For Better Or Worse". I got the better, she got the worse. She has never really forgiven me for what I have done. I don't expect her to forgive me. She knew about the others, but she never knew about Janet.

Janet, poor, unfortunate, Janet. She left Saint Petersburg and moved to Fort Lauderdale. I still remember the difficulty Jim Hogan had in telling me that there, Janet had committed suicide. Smothers was able in intercede and claim the body. Actually in all truth I was the advocate. I had her body cremated. I offered her ashes to her sons. they refused them. On a cold winter afternoon I scattered them on the beach near the waters edge, in Wildwood. she was gone. It made little difference. She had left me fifty years ago.

She's gone. Jim Hogan's gone. My mother and father are gone. The house they built together in Florida was left to me. I sold it. Now, I understand it is in disrepair. Soon, that will be gone.

All that will be left will be these memories, memories of past loves and mistakes. I'll probably be remembered for my mistakes, as it should be."

Robert returned to reality when he heard his name mentioned and then the applause. He stood on shaking legs and with a trembling hand waved to the crowed and said, "Thank you. Thank you so very much."

The next year Barbara died. Her heart finally gave out and she went peacefully in her sleep. As for Robert the Parkinson’s Disease got worse and it came to the point where he needed constant care and nursing. When it came near the end for him he was visited by his daughter, Henrietta. He looked at her and said, “Why do you look so sad? Don’t be sad or feel sorry for me.

Soon, I’ll be with your mother. Besides everybody goes, sooner or later. I just hope that they let me stay a while with her up there before they kick my old sinner’s ass out.”

Henrietta smiled, “They’ll let you stay. Mom will see to that even though she never really forgot or forgave you.”

“That’s because your mother only made one mistake in her entire life, marrying me. You’re a brilliant woman. If you ever get the chance, read Mythology. When you do you’ll find that even the gods are fallible.

When Harriet was ready to leave she asked, “Dad do you need anything?”

“Yes, turn on the radio. I want to lay hear and listen to music. Maybe it will relax me and I’ll get some sleep. Harriet turned on the radio in the room turned the dial and found a suitable station then left the room.

Robert lay with his eyes open listening. One song ended. Another song began. He listened carefully to the lyrics and as he did he closed his eyes. He saw himself sitting on the beach looking out at an empty ocean. A rainbow appeared. Standing on the arch of the rainbow he saw Janet and then the rainbow disappeared. A bright light replaced it. And then someone was singing, it was a haunting melody and Robert heard”

 

Well, I don’t know why you come here,

but you can’t stay, let’s make that clear

your eyes are closed, but you don’t speak,

is it comfort that you seek?

Maybe we can just pretend

 

Leaves are falling down like rain and I look

to you again, would you come away with me

 

Leaves are falling down like rain, you can

see right through my pain

Like a window to the sea

 

Now you’re standing in the rain

that old feelings back again

but I don’t know you any more

the love I have is from before

 

And, it’s falling

Falling

Falling

 

All is falling down

 

He gazed into the bright light, saw the face of Janet disappear and in the glow another face appeared. He forced himself to look into the bright light even though it hurt his eyes. By doing so the face came through the light. He smiled.

It was Barbara. She waved to him and then beckoned. Then he went to her.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Tag der Veröffentlichung: 24.08.2016

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