Winners and Losers, book 2, chapter 7

          Several weeks later, in August, Jean and Heidi were beginning to prepare to leave for college.  Every day there was much unnecessary conversation, and too much telephoning to suit Karl.  Frequently, he would be disturbed at his office knowing that if he tried to call his house, either Heidi or Miriam would be on the phone.

     Miriam was staying busy with everything, and in a dither.  She told friends the only time she got a break was when she watched "As the World Turns" on television.  To add to the confusion, Heidi was deeply in love with Rick Morris.  Whenever Rick would come to the house, Heidi would drop whatever she was doing and go away with Rick.  Miriam tried to stifle this relationship, but had the wisdom to know that, if she did, Heidi would only rebel more.  Joe, as father, didn't have much to say about it, as he knew Karl, too, was uneasy about the situation.  It was one of those "elephant in the room" situations that the adults were, frankly, perplexed about.

     Monday afternoon, after lunch, Rick, wearing nothing but cut off jeans, stormed into the Katz-Meyer's kitchen.

     "I'm sorry, Rick," Miriam, lighting a cigarette, said.  "Heidi is sound asleep.  I'll let her know you were here."

     "Heidi told me to come here this afternoon," Rick whined.

     "Well," an obviously stressed Miriam replied, "I'll tell her you were here.  I'll have her call you."

     Rick rudely turned around and stormed out.

     Later that day, after Heidi awoke, Miriam confronted her about the situation with Rick.

     "Honey, I was young once.  I know how you feel, but you're about to go off to college.  What's Rick going to do?"

     "He's working on his uncle's farm," Heidi cried.  "Why didn't you wake me this afternoon?"

     "You'd think the young man would have some manners about him," Miriam replied.  "Why, when he left, he didn't even say 'goodbye' or anything--just stormed out!"  She paused.  "Tell me, Heidi, what's a pot party like? I've never been to a pot party."

     "Well, you've been to about every other kind!" Heidi snapped.

     With that, Miriam reached out and slapped Heidi across the face.

     "That's enough, young lady! You might be going off to college soon, but, for now, I forbid you to see Rick Morris any more!"

     With that, it was now Miriam who did the storming, as she stormed out of Heidi's room.

     Given Miriam's propensity for telephoning, not only did Karl know, but most of her friends heard of the unpleasantness between mother and daughter, by sundown.  And, by the time Joe returned home from the farm, he was in no mood to deal with the matter, retreating to the front porch until dinnertime.

     A few days later, after things had cooled down in the Katz-Meyer household, Heidi finally got permission to go out, this time with Jean.

     Heidi and Jean rode to the City Cafe, where the first thing Heidi did was to place a call to Rick over the pay phone.

     "Oh, Rick," Heidi said.  "We've got so much to talk about! Why don't we meet at the lake?"

     "Oh, I dunno, baby," a stoned sounding Rick replied.  "Ya know I love ya, but I don't want your folks on my ass.  Maybe your mom's right."

     "Well," Heidi said, "Jean and I are going to be at the City Cafe for awhile.  Come on by if you want.  I love you."

     Late that night, Heidi was sleepless as she wrestled mentally with her relationship with Rick Morris.  Did he still love her?  Was Miriam right?  Was he too rude?  Would she be able to concentrate on college, with Rick not there?"

     Suddenly, Heidi realized that she'd left her purse at the lake, where she and Jean had taken a ride after leaving the City Cafe.  She called Jean, who answered immediately.

     "Oh, Jean," Heidi said.  "do you think I woke your mom and dad?"

     "They're not here," Jean replied.

     "What a relief!" Heidi said.  "I think I left my purse at the lake! We've got to get it! If it's gone, I'm in big trouble!"

     "Do you think you can sneak out?"  Jean asked.

     "I'll do my best.  Where are Tippy and Pamela, anyway?"

     "They're at a party in Louisiana, and won't even be home 'til tomorrow!"

     "Okay, Jean, I'll sneak out.  I've done this before.  And please hurry--come down that alley behind our house and I'll be looking out for you!"

     "I'll be there shortly!" Jean declared.

     Heidi slipped on shorts and a blouse, and carefully opened the front window of her room, climbed out, then walked around the upstairs porch, to the back porch.  She then stopped, stepped over to a tree, and climbed down.  She then made her way between two buildings of the downtown behind her house, and on to the alley where she would meet Jean, who suddenly drove up.  Heidi jumped into the car.

     "Perfect timing," Heidi said.  "Let's hurry-ass to the lake!"

     "I've got to stop at the Rose Oil station on the way.  The car is riding on empty!"

     "I dread that," Heidi said.  "This is certainly no time of the night to be going to that kind of place!"

     "All you need to worry about is if the car lights will be bright enough to both protect us and find your purse at the lake!"

     They drove up to the gasoline station, and Jean pulled up to a tank.

     An attendant approached.

     "Fill it up!" Jean said.  "And please hurry!"

     The two were waiting patiently when Heidi saw what looked, to her, like a familiar car, whose driver drove in and pulled up to the coke machine, by the side of the building.  Heidi watched with interest.

     "What are you looking at?" Jean asked.

     "Oh--nothing.  It's just that the car that just came in--over there by the coke machine--it looks just like Rick's car!"

     Jean looked back.  "It couldn't be.  There are a boy and a girl in it--doesn't look like Rick to me!"

     Suddenly, Rick Morris, wearing nothing but skimpy gym shorts, got out of the car and walked to the coke machine.

     "That is Rick!" Heidi, shocked, said.  "Who the hell is that with him?"

     "I hate to hurt you," Jean replied, "but I think it's Marie Treacher!"

     "Oh my God!" Heidi cried.  "Are we going crazy? Wasn't she the one who was in some sort of trouble with Dr. Baker?"

     "Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" Jean replied, trembling with fear and shock.

     "Let's follow them!" Heidi said.

     "How the hell are we going to do that without them seeing us?"

     "I don't know," Heidi replied, "but Rick looks pretty bombed out now; I wonder if he can see very far in front of him!"

     "And he's the one driving!"

     After Jean paid the attendant, the two left, and parked across the road.  They waited for Rick and Marie to drive away from the service station.  When they saw the car leave, they followed them, keeping a safe distance behind.

     "This is terrible!" Heidi said.  "Mama and I have been going back and forth about Rick, and it looks like she might have had a point."

     "It looks like they're going to the lake! They're taking the road we're going to take!"

     A car came up behind Jean and Heidi.

     "Let them pass!" Heidi cried.

     Suddenly, Rick gave a right turn signal.

     "We'll sneak up on them!" Heidi said.  "This road leads to nowhere! There are no houses out here, or anything! Oh, I wouldn't put anything past them now!"

     "Well, at least they're not going to the lake," Jean said.  "Let's go and find your purse, then we'll come back here."

     "Please hurry!" Heidi said.

     The lake was approximately a mile from the road that Rick turned toward.

     Jean drove fast, as Heidi silently prayed that nothing was going on between Rick and Marie.  Heidi's sobs were a combination of worry and, to Jean, possible relief--that, somehow, Heidi could put her affair with Rick behind her, and begin anew at college.

     "Thank goodness the lights are still on at the pierre!" Jean said.  "You don't even have to get out, Heidi.  I think I see your purse right there, by the diving board."

     "Oh, please, Jean," Heidi said, "don't bother--I'll get it!"

     Before Heidi could say more, Jean had gotten out and was running toward the purse.  She picked it up, looked inside it, and gave Heidi the signal that it was her purse. Heidi waved back, and smiled.  However, her thoughts were on Rick and Marie.

     By the time Jean had gotten back to the car, Heidi was in the driver's seat.

     "Okay, Heidi," Jean said.  "I thought you were in a hurry.  Move over so we can get out of here!"

     "Let me drive, please," Heidi replied.  "I know what I'm doing."

     "Okay--I don't feel much like arguing, Heidi," Jean said, going to the other side of the car.  "Now I realize how much of a hurry you are in.  Please be careful, though!"

     "Don't worry," Heidi said. "I know what I'm doing!"

     Heidi drove fast, but with caution, on the way to the gravel road Rick and Marie had turned toward.  She then turned.

     "You better be careful!" Jean said.  "This is dangerous!"

     "They'll probably think the car is just another couple looking for a place to park! Damn, this is a rough place!"

     Heidi's remarks revealed an unusual adolescent wisdom.  Cole and environs was a rather "tough place," and, years later, many would wonder how they "survived growing up there." The economy was lagging.  Racial tensions, though improved from earlier years, still existed, and many, both young and old, acted in ways there forbears would find immoral.  Everyone generally knew the business of everyone else, and there was no room for "thin skinned" personalities.  People, in general, developed a resistance to being "talked about," and "woe be to the timid."

     Suddenly, the lights of Jean's car shined on the car of Rick Morris.

     "Turn the lights off!" Jean begged.  "They'll see us!"

     Heidi ignored Jean, and swung the door open.  As Jean turned the lights off, Heidi ran up to Rick's car, looked in the back window, and saw Rick and Marie, both nude, engaging in passionate love.

Winners and Losers, book 2, chapter 6

     Saturday evening, at six thirty, Harry and David Kahn were eating steaks for dinner and watching some sports event on television.

     David had played golf all afternoon, and was slouched on the sofa in his underwear, his feet propped on the coffee table.

     Harry, in his bathrobe, had not dressed all day.

     Suddenly, the telephone rang.

     "I can tell by the ring, it's Janet!" David laughed.

     "Hello," David answered.

     "Well, well," Janet said.  "I never thought I'd find you at home at this time of the afternoon! Are you sick?"

     "You must be!" It's night!"

     "Hell, I was kidding, Dave! Let me speak to your brother!"

     "Hi," Harry said into the receiver.  "What's the news? Really--yeah--yeah.  You say you really want to restore the temple? Well, more power to you! I'll keep my fingers crossed.  Bye."

     At the Katz home, Miriam was patiently waiting for Karl to return from the country club, where he was eating supper.  Joe was sitting on the front porch, smoking, and patiently waiting for his supper.  Miriam soon joined him.

     "You're going to have a casserole that was leftover from a luncheon Lu gave."

     "Stop right there," Joe said.  "Next thing you know, you'll be telling me what everyone wore at that luncheon!"

     They laughed.

     Suddenly, a car pulled up in front of the house.  Nancy Spader got out, and walked up to the porch.

     "Hello, hello," Nancy said.

     "How are we this evening?" Joe asked.

     "Well," Nancy replied, "I don't know about you or Miriam, but I'm feeling lousy.  The air conditioner broke down, I finally got someone to fix it, and it cost me a million dollars.  With the grandkids coming in soon, I had to have the place spruced up.  I can live without air conditioning, but I don't know if they can!"

     "Gossip time!" Joe, rising, said.  "I'll go see about my casserole."

     "It should be ready!" Miriam said.

     As Joe went into the house, Miriam and Nancy began a long session of warm and petty chatter frequently engaged in during these hot evenings.

     Later that night, Joe went to bed early, and Miriam was making a cake in the kitchen when Karl entered.

     "How was your golf game today?" Miriam asked.

     "Not too good," Karl replied.  "I need practice!"

     "I can tell by the look on your face you're worried about something."

     "Yeah," Karl said.  "Janet keeps yelping about wanting to restore the temple, and I agree with her, we need to, but we just don't have the resources or the membership now to do very much.  Then, there's the cemetery upkeep.  Remember all the fuss she and Bella made a few weeks ago when a tree fell, and we went out there and it was nothing but a few limbs here and there?"

     "Joe takes care of all that."

     "Well," Karl said. "The temple's a bit much for one man to work on.  We'll find some solution to this, I'm sure."

    

Winners and Losers, book 2, chapter 5

     Saturday morning, Janet Silverman Jones awoke early, fixed some coffee, and began her morning procession of cigarettes.  Litttle Carrie had spent Friday night with a friend, and would be gone all day.  Janet was also off from work.

     When Bella entered the kitchen, she was unsure about Janet's mood, so she said nothing.

     The silence was broken when Janaet said, "I got a letter from Aunt Rose the other day.  I forgot to tell you."

     "You did?" replied Bella.  "I never hear from her any more."

     "She said everything is fine.  She and Uncle Leo might make it down here in September, but I doubt they will.  You know how they are about closing their store."

     "Yeah."

     "Mother, I have some plans about restoration of the temple.  I'm going to draw up some if Karl and Miriam and Joe and everyone would cooperate--do you think--"

     "Janet," Bella replied.  "Those plans are a waste of time! We'll do something some day, but I just don't think we have enough money to pay for a major restoration.  Meanwhile, let's shut up about it!"

     "I'll do just that, Mother!" Janet said.

     Later in the morning, Janet had forgotten what she said to her mother, and called on Miriam.

     As usual at that time of day, Miriam was back in the kitchen.  Heidi, attired in cut off blue jeans and a sweatshirt belonging to Rick Morris, entered.

     Miriam was sitting at the kitchen table working on some bookkeeping when her daughter entered.

     "Good morning," Heidi said.

     "Hi, baby," Miriam greeted, lighting a cigarette.  She got some coffee, and returned to her seat.  "Did you have a good time last night?"

     "Yes.  I'm going to the country club for a little while," Heidi said.  "Jean is coming to get me."

     "Aren't you going to eat any breakfast?" Miriam asked.

     "Later--I'll just get something at lunch."

     "Okay," a concerned Miriam mumbled.

     As Heidi walked out the back door, Janet walked in the other door, from the hall.

     "Hello," Miriam greeted.  "Grab a cup of coffee and have a seat!"

     The telephone rang.  It was, as usual, Lu.  A ten minute conversation followed.  In a humorous, albeit peculiar sign language Miriam relayed to Janet, Janet was instructed to go knock on the back door.

     "Yes," Miriam said over the telephone.  "Probably my grocery delivery.  Call me later,  Bye."

     "Why did you say, 'call me later'"? Janet asked.

     "Please don't ask me that!" Miriam laughed.

     There was a short pause, which was unusual when Janet and Miriam got together.

     Janet broke the silence.  "Do you think you could persuade Karl to appoint a committee to just discuss--just discuss--temple restoration?"

     "Don't get me into this!" Miriam laughed.  "I'm too busy already!"

     "The heck you say!" Janet replied.  "You're busy, but talented."

     "In other things!" Miriam said.  "I've never really been active in anything in the temple."

     "It could be such a beautiful place again," Janet sighed.

     They exchanged small talk for a short while longer, and, by the time she realized Miriam didn't have her heart in the same type of restoration Janet had in mind, Janet politely arose from the table and bade farewell to Miriam for the day.

     For the remainder of the day, the temple was the last thing on Miriam's mind.

     That afternoon, around a card table set up in the hall, Miriam and several friends played bridge and chatted local news.

     After the game, Janie Engle, one of the players, stayed for cocktails.  Though still sad about the loss of her best friend, Fifi, Janie was getting her color back, and getting out more often.

     Karl, Miriam, and Janie sat on the front porch, drank, and discussed, for the most part, the estate of Fifi  Ballinger.

     "It's quite a mess," Janie explained.  "It just doesn't seem like all this happened so short a time ago!"

     "They tell me Jim is the one in a mess!" Karl laughed.

     "Oh, don't kid yourself about Jim," Janie replied.  "I think he's already started to have a good time with the ladies in Natchez! I heard someone in the shop say they saw him with someone in a restaurant.  Seems he's found surveying work in Adams County.  Barlow McGee gave me his room telephone number a few days ago.  I called him, and a woman answered! I immediately hung up, of course!"

     "Lans a living!" Miriam gasped.  "What's going on, anyway?"

     "Goodness only knows!" Janie laughed.

     "I guess it reminds you of the Baker mess!" Thomas laughed.

     "Oh, Lord," Janie said.  "I think one of his children overheard me say something about it in the grocery store the other day."

     "Me, too," Miriam said.  "I should have had my tongue cut out when I was a baby!"

     "There's still time to slit it!" Joe, entering, laughed.

     "Hi," Janie said to Joe.  "How are things on the ole farm?"

     "Fine," Joe replied.  "I talked to Mark today.  He says his soybean crop looks pretty good this year!"

     "You're the one who should have had your tongue cut out when you were a baby!" Janie laughed.

Winners and Losers, book 2, chapter 4

     Friday evening, the scene in the Katz-Mayer home was the usual.  Miriam was cooking dinner.  Karl was in the den reading the newspaper and half listening to the television news.  Joe was lying on the sofa, half asleep, in dreams of the farm and his cows.

     The telephone rang, and Miriam answered it in the kitchen.

     "Hello."

     "Hi, Miriam," said Lu.  "What's the news?"

     The caller being Lu, Miriam patiently sat down, lit a cigarette, and kept an eye on the oven
timer, as the two ladies talked.

     "What are we going to do about the condition of the temple?" Lu asked.

     "Well," Miriam replied.  "You'd need to talk to Karl about that.  I think we're probably the smallest reformed congregation in the United States--about a doaen or so of us--and Karl's the president.  I'm sure we'll get around to doing major repairs some day, but wouldn't you agree our houses need work, too?"

     "Sure, I guess," Lu replied.

     After several more minutes of small talk, the timer on Miriam's oven saved her, and she ended the converstaion.

     "We'll talk again soon, dear, " Miriam said.  "Good evening."

     During dinner, the usual conversation went on around the table.

     "We need some rain mighty bad!" Joe said.

     "If our crops go down any more," Miriam said, :maybe we can close the store and I can become your secretary, Karl."

     "By the way," Joe asked, "How's that new boy you hired to help out at the store?--name of Sam something?"

     "Sam Masters," Miriam said.  "He's a good worker, but I think he's got a crush on Heidi."

     "Well," Karl said, "I thought she had a date with Rick Morris tonight."

     "She does," Miriam replied.  "That's where she is now."

     Meanwhile, the subject of boys and dating wasn't going so smoothly in the Back home.  Tippy and Pamela were upset over Jean's present choice for her boyfriend.

     "Smith's a damn bum!" said Tippy, referring to a handsome, tall, Gentile boy of nineteen who, in Tippy's book, had three strikes against him:  he was Gentile; his parents did not belong to the country club; instead of going to college, Ray Smith was working in a local car dealership.

     Actually, Ray was not unlike many of the youth of Cole.  He "ran wild," according to many, and smoked and drank at an early age.  Many in Cole had done it, and were doing it.

     One could only look at Miriam Katz Mayer to see what excitement it was to grow up in Cole.  But, of course, to Tippy, Miriam was now a responsible adult.  Tippy, a rather nervous, subdued person, could be outspoken about this "new generation," and he was letting off more steam than usual this particular night.  Tippy was talking in the present tense, and the present tense was now all about his daughter, Jean Back, and Ray Smith.

     "Baloney on what you say!" Pamela would break in.  "Just because Ray Smith is not Jewish, not a college student--must you cut him down for that?"

     "Smith--he should go to college--fill his empty head!" Tippy answered.

     "The point is," Pamela said, "Ray Smith is good to Jean, and I'm afraid the two are in love."

Winners and Losers, book 2, chapter 3

     The story of the Katz family was interesting to the people of Cole.

     Karl and Miriam were the children of the late Jacob and Cornelia Hart Katz, immigrants from Alsace Lorraine who moved to the Cole area from Mobile, Alabama, in the early 1900s.  Jacob worked for Harris Bernheimer, said to be one of the wealthiest men in Mississippi,  By the time Karl and Miriam were born, Jacob had purchased the two Bernheimer plantations, their big store, and Victorian house, said to be the largest in Cole.

     Karl was an exceptional student, and graduated from high school at the age of 16.  From there, he went to the University of Mississippi, and later received a Law degree from Ole Miss, as the historic school was nicknamed.

     Miriam, some years younger, was a rather wild little girl.  As she grew older, she possessed many qualities of her Jewish race:  beautiful, jet black hair, and darkly tanned skin.

     Miriam was very popular in high school, when she began smoking Lucky Strike cigarettes, a habit Karl had begun, earlier, with the Camel brand.

     The Katz house, sitting right next to their store, became the gathering place for the youth of Cole.

     Having friends and relatives in New Orleans, Cornelia sent Miriam to Sophie Newcombe College.  Miriam didn't stay there long, however, and not long after returning home to Cole, she began dating Joesph Mayer, a handsome attendant at the Texaco gasoline station.  Simply known to the residents of Cole as Joe, he wasn't quite what Cornelia had in mind as a husband for Miriam.  Though Jewish, Joe's family lived far out in the country, and it wasn't until Joe began working at the "filling station," as everyone called the Texaco business, that he mingled with many of the townsfolk.

     Joe and Miriam's courtship was, at times, stormy.  Miriam, too, was eager both to meet Joe's expectations and those of her parents, who were not as warm to the idea of Miriam marrying Joe as Miriam would have liked.

     Finally, though, Joe proposed.

     Miriam, bluntly, put it this way to her parents:  "Joe and I are going to elope.  Would that be okay?"

     Needless to say, that form of reverse psychology did the trick, and, several weeks later, Miriam and Joe were married in the grand hall of the Katz home.

     After the ceremony, officiated by a rabbi from Baton Rouge, Joe charmed those present with many jokes and anecdotes.

     "I didn't know whether or not the rabbi was going to use English or Hebrew!" Joe quipped to the champagne drinking guests gathered.  "So, when he said, 'fore,' I thought he was going to throw some golf balls at me, so that's why I ducked!"

     "Well," replied Katz neighbor, Meredith Sinser, "you better take care of Miriam right, or you'll be doing a lot of ducking!"

     Following the ceremony and reception, Miriam and Joe departed for a homeymoon of several days in New Orleans, then returned to Cole, where they established residence in the Katz home.  Joe left his job at Texaco, and began managing the Katz farm property.

     During the first few years of marriage, Miriam would awaken at five thirty every morning, dress, cook breakfast for Joe, send him off to the farm, then continue serving breakfast to the others in the household as they were ready.  Karl would go to his law office.

     Jacob and Cornelia grew more frail with each passing day, and died within weeks of each other, not long before the birth of the only baby Miriam would ever have, Heidi Katz Mayer.

     From that time to the present, Miriam was one of the most attractive and active ladies in Cole.  She played bridge almost every week, helped Thomas in his office, and, with the help of her black maid, Essie Warfield, managed the big house.

     Most evenings at the Katz home found Karl and the Mayer's sitting in front of the television, which they'd placed in the hall, smoking and enjoying the programs.  As the years went by, heidi brought her friends home for weekends, and they always enjoyed the experience of visiting the impressive house and hearing the adults' humorous stories and witty, sometimes double entendre banter.

     As it had been when Karl and Miriam were growing up, the Katz home remained the gathering place for everyone.  Every time someone had a problem, they'd stop by and tell Karl, Miriam and Joe.  The three of them all listened.  After all, Joe got around the county every day in his truck--he knew what was going on.  Karl was one of the four lawyers in Cole--he certainly knew what was going on from a business point of view, and his intelligence was respected.  And Miriam--there she stayed--at that big house--some days, all day--working and enjoying her afternoon television serials (which she called "stories")--working and talking over the telephone.  Yes, every time one visited the Katz house, there always seemed to be some sort of excitement!

     Miriam was making coffee for her husband and brother when, through the kitchen door, in walked Jean Back, Heidi's best friend, daughter of Tipton ("Tippy") and Pamela Gable Back, friends of the Katz-Mayer family.

     "Hi, Miriam," Jean greeted.

     "Hello, Jean," Miriam, as usual, warmly greeted.  "What's new with you?"

     "Don't know any gossip," Jean replied.  "Where's Heidi?"

     "In her room, I think.," Miriam replied.  "Go on up, and, for God's sake, don't turn on that record player too loud or Uncle Karl will have a fit!"

     Jean laughed, and climbed the tall flight of steps up to Heidi's room, via the back hall.

     "Hi, Heidi," Jean said.

     "I've got some news for you!" Heidi said.

     "I don't know who talks the most," Joe laughed, downstairs.  "Is it Miriam or Heidi?"

     Suddenly, footsteps were heard on the front porch.  John Madison entered.

     "Hello," John said.  "I just thought I'd stop by for a few minutes."

     "Hi, John," Karl welcomed.

     "Everyone ready for some coffee?" Miriam asked.  "It's served."

     As they proceeded into the kitchen, Joe knew he and Miriam were in for what might be a lengthy legal talk--and, maybe, debate--between Karl and John.

Winners and Losers, book 2, chapter 2

     Lu Heindenrich was an attractive, stout widow of about seventy.  Good luck had befallen her, and she owned several productive oil wells in Texas.  Like Bella, she was the daughter of Jewish merchants, and grew up in the house they had behind their store, just off Main Street.  After her parents' death. Lu tore down the store and maintainted the house, adding extensively to it over the years.  Because of her graceful personality and abundant wealth, she was well known in high circles of that area.

     "Have a seat," Lu cordially greeted the guests in her beautiful sitting room.  "Anna will serve us in a few minutes."

     Bella sat in a large, velvet chair, and Janet and harry sat, side by side, on the sofa.

     "Haven't some of our townsfolk had some bad luck lately, " Lu, attempting humor, began.

     "You can say that again!" Janet said.  "I wonder some time how long I'm going to stay here before I get in trouble!"

     "Oh, Janet," Bella said.  "You had enough trouble when you were away!"

     "You must forgive my behavior at the funeral!" Janet apologized.  "I always become emotional at funerals.  Fifi's death was such a shock."

     "Dinner is served," Anna piped in, from the dining room.

     The four proceeded to the elegant dining room, and were seated.  Lu sat at the head of the table, Bella, to her left, and Harry and Janet to the right.

     "I'll ring if we need anything else," Lu said.

     "Yes m'am," Anna replied, returning to the kitchen.

     "You know," Lu said, "the funniest thing happened a few weeks ago.  I was having a party, and Anna, bless her heart, offered to stay and help clean up.  Well, I didn't want to keep her too late, so I asked her if her husband, Willie, would be all right.  And she replied, 'Oh, yessum, he all right--he's just sittin' by the fire, drinking whiskey and reading the bible!"

     After nervous laughter, the subject turned to more recent events.

     "Lu, where is Jim moving" Bella asked.  "Janie Engle said something about his leaving Cole."

     "I'd leave here if I were him!" Harry said.  "I don't believe for one minute that when Fifi and Jim fought it was entirely Fifi's fault." he took a large mouthful of potato salad.

     "Well," Janet, surgaring her tea, said, "I can tell you from past experience that it takes two to tango!"

     "We needn't mention that!" Bella said.

     Suddenly, the conversation turned to a subject they usually avoided, but which faced them regularly:  the restoration of their little house of worship, Temple Gemiluth Chassed.

     "I hate to say this," Lu said, "but we are going to have to do something about the temple! It's falling down before our very eyes!"

     "It will only be a few months before our new year in September.  The new year will be here sooner than we think!" Harry said.

     "I'd hate to have services here again," Lu said, referring to one evening when the electricity went out and the service was moved to her house where, after the service, drinks, loud talk, and laughter followed.

     "The Temple," as locals referred to it, was a strangely beautiful structure, strange in that it was on the same street as most of the Christian churches in the community, with Hebrew inscriptions on its cornerstone.  Ancestors of the present day Jews in Cole built the structure in 1873.  Such old names as Mykoff; Hart; Katz; Back; Reiner; and Applebaum were displayed on a tapestry which hung to the right of the entrance to the worship space proper.

     There had been a regular rabbi until the late 1950s.  Then, Karl Katz, a highly regarded lawyer of Cole, read New Year services every autumn, drawing a crowd of about thirty, among them, their Christian friends.  The Jews who attended temple regularly usually went to the synagogue in Natchez.

     One hot, September night in 1959, the lights went out during the service.  After several unsuccessful attempts to flip the breaker switches, the service was, at Lu's invitation, moved to her house.  Every year since, it had been held there.

     "We just have a a handful of members left," Bella sighed.  "It would be nice to polish up the old place, though."

     "Yeah," Janet replied.  "Carrie might want to be married there!"

     All laughed, except Janet.

     "Oh," said Bella, "don't fret, dear! It's just that we don't know if any of us will still be around when that day arrives!"

     "Well," said Janet, "I hope she makes out better than I did!"

     "Well," Bella said, "as soon as I see Karl Katz again, I'm going to bring up the possibility of some sort of fund raiser.  Among us, we shouldn't have any trouble sprucing the place up."

     "There's always the cost of the cemetery, too, " Lu replied.

     "Well," Janet said, "Karl's brother in law, Joe, takes good care of that."

Winners and Losers, book 2, The Jews, chapter 1

"The gates of repentance are always open." - Pesikta of Rab Kahana, page 142.

"Our father, our king, grant unto us a new year of happiness." - Evening service for the new year.  The Union Prayer Book for Jewish Worship, 1945


     Widowed Bella Mykoff Silverman and her recently divorced daughter, Janet Silverman Jones, were members of the dwindling Jewish community of Cole, descendants of much larger group who had immigrated to the area in the late 1800s and established businesses, homes, and a few synagogues which, sadly, were either falling into disrepair, or had closed, their contents having been donated either to other synagogues or to a camp in Utica, Mississippi.  It was always of interest to "Yankee" tourists that there were any Jews in Mississippi, but the surviving group who remained in the Cole area were a hardworking, humorous, generally happy community.  No racism existed between them and other white skinned people of the area though, unfortunately, some of the old timers still held on to outdated segregationist attitudes when it came to blacks who, for the most part, had served both Gentiles and Jews in subservient roles.

     Bella'a parents owned, for many years, the only drugstore in town, across the street from their beautiful Victorian house.

     When she turned eighteen, Bella married Sam Silverman, and they took over the store.  Sam was "no stranger to the bottle," as the old saying goes, and it wasn't long beforre Bella had to hire extra help, then, finally, sell the store.  Not long after Janet was born, Sam died.  With help and determination, though, Bella maintained her natural beauty and wits, and held on to her property.

     From the start, Janet was spoiled.  She was the pride and joy of Bella, who, every afternoon, rolled her child around in a stroller, up and down the streets of Cole.

     Fortunately, Janet had a sharp mind, and was an outstanding student.  When Janet was fifteen, Bella inherited a fortune from a cousin in New York, and invested some of this money in Janet's education at a California university.  After her graduation, janet landed a teaching position in a Los Angeles high school.

     In 1961, Janet came home for the summer and was soon followed by a tall, dark marine by the name of William Jones.  Within weeks, their engagement was announced.

     Minor repairs were made to the crumbling old synagogue, and the reception was held in the palatial antebellum home of a family friend, The Oaks.  Much todo and fesitvity surrounded the wedding.

     After the wedding, Janet and William returned to California.

     In June, 1963, after having given birth to a girl, Carrie, Janet phoned Bella, telling her the marriage was all over.  Sadly, Janet returned to Cole several weeks later.

     Now, Bella, Janet, and little Carrie lived in their restored Main Street home, and were close and happy, though Bella's occasional berating of Janet for this and that, and Janet's heavy smoking gave a puzzling impression to those who didn't know them that well.  Bella and Janet, in a way, looked after each other.

     Janet taught at Cole High School for two years, but grew tired of teaching.  She was now a deputy clerk, and quite satisfied with that job.

     Whenever there was a social event in Cole, Janet and Bella usually attended together.  Janet talked continuously, and Bella always seemed to be around to keep things on an even keel.

     Janet had a relatively quiet social life, though.  Her closest friend was a short, handsome, distant cousin named Harry Kahn.

     Harry was thirty two, and, like his brother, David, had inherited both a family clothing store and some valuable property which included the palatial old house they shared.  They took turns minding the store, but also played a lot of golf, and were fond of parties. 

     After Fifi's funeral, which Harry attended with Bella and the weeping Janet, the three went to the home of Lu Heidenrich, a close friend, for lunch.



   

Winners and Losers, book 1, chapter 14

     Fifi's funeral was Wednesday morning at eleven o clock.

     An air of shock and gloom prevailed in Cole.

     Fifi's few close friends made cakes and coffee, and helped Jim receive callers.

     Many visitors came to the house from Sunday afternoon until Tuesday evening.

     Janie was feeling tired and low when she finally got to bed, but managed to appear attractive and fresh.

     Jim was, in no way, scared of what might have been said, or what was being said of their separation and Fifi's death.  In his mind, Fifi was at fault in every way for her condition.  He did, however, feel heartbroken beyond words, and knew he'd probably never get over it.

     Wednesday broke cloudy.  At seven thirty, Jim awoke, showered, and was in the process of getting dressed when the telephone rang.

     "Jim," Janie said, in a depressed voice.  "I'm so tired! I just don't think I can make it to the funeral.  I'm going to call Taylor Baker or Martin Roberts about a checkup."

     "That's perfectly allright, Janie," Jim assured.  "You've gone beyond the call of duty, anyway.  Matter of fact, as you've probably figured out by now, I'm not staying in Cole.  As soon as I can
get a few things straightened out, I'm leaving this nosy town! Without Fifi, life will never be the same.  We had our problems, but she just couldn't get hold of hers without all that drink and stuff.  This has been a hard decision for me, but I'm selling our property here and moving away."

     "Good for you!" Janie congratulated.  "I have confidence in you, Jim.  I sincerely believe you can start a whole new life elsewhere."

     "I'm glad you agree, Janie.  Now, be sure to call a doctor and have him look at you!"

     "I'm sure it's nothing but exhaustion."

     "Thanks again, Janie," Jim concluded.  "I'll be in contact with you about helping me go through some of Fifi's things."

     The threat of rain loomed every minute of the funeral, which began in the chapel of the Glenn Funeral Home, with burial following in an old family cemetery about a mile from Cole.  Only several of Fifi's family had been buried there, but Jim had heard her say, more than once, that she wanted to be buried there.

     At approximately eleven thirty, about twenty cars, lights on, followed the Glenn hearse to the cemetery.

     There were only four people in the special family seats:  Jim; Mark Engle; family cousins Norman and Margaret Acker.

     All Jim could think about during the funeral was what he was going to do when he left Cole.

     As everyone was leaving the burial ground, several couldn't help hearing one voice in particular that sobbed and carried above all other moans and groans.

     "Shut up, Janet," Bella Silverman said to her equally Jewish daughter, "before I slap your face!"

Winners and Losers, book 1, chapter 13

     At the Cole Hospital, Fifi was in bad shape.

     The apparent reason for her fall at the club was, it was determined, a bad combination of pills and alcohol.

     In the lobby of the hospital stood Barlow McGee, Janie Engle, and Dr. Martin Roberts, another of the three Cole doctors.

     Barlow seemed nervous.  Finally, he walked to the telephone booth.  He closed the door, and sat down.  At first, he thought about not calling Jim, but he was one of the few people who knew where he was.  Thus, he called the hotel where Jim was staying, in Natchez.

     "Hello, the room of Jim Ballinger, please."  He paused.  Jim answered.

     "Jim--hey, boy.  This is your ole buddy, Barlow!"

     "What the hell are you calling me for?" Jim replied.  "You haven't told anybody where I am, have you?"

     "Shut your mouth!" Barlow said.  "I have some news that might surprise you."

     "What?"

     "It's about Fifi."

     "Tell me!"

     "Fifi passed out at the country club this afternoon.  At first, we thought she was just drunk, but it turned out more serious! Jim, we're here at the Cole hospital.  I suggest you come here immediately!" 

     "I'll get there as soon as I can, Barlow! Thanks for calling!"

     Jim showered and dressed, and headed for Cole.

     "I have a confession to make," Barlow said, confronting the crowd, who were now seated, all sipping coffee.

     "What is it?" Janie asked.

     "I've known where Jim has been all along.  The morning he left, he made me swear not to tell anybody.  He told me to keep an eye on Fifi."

     "I'll be damned!" Dr. Roberts said.  "What next!"

     "I just had to tell Jim about Fifi," Barlow said.  "He's been staying in Natchez, and he's on his way here right now."  Addressing Janie, Barlow continued, "I know you won't tell anyone Jim's whereabouts.  You know how things get out of balance in this place--stories get embellished, spread around.  I'm damned tired of this little town! The ones who gossip about the wrongs of others are, actually, the most wrong!"

     "Now, Barlow," Janie replied, "you know I wouldn't gossip about Fifi or Jim! Fifi's always been my dearest friend!"

     "Well," Barlow said, "when he gets here, please don't say anything about Natchez.  I wasn't supposed to tell anyone.  Let him tell you."

     Suddenly, one of the nurses entered the lobby.  "Dr. Roberts, Mr. Anderson in room fourteen is dizzy again."

     "Certainly," the doctor said, rising.  He turned to Barlow and Janie.  "You people going to stay here all night?"

     "Night?" Janie gasped.

     Dr. Roberts walked to one of the windows, opened the curtains, and revealed the darkness.

     "Oh, Lord," Barlow said, "I didn't realize it was night already.  I've got to get back to the club."

     "I'm going on home now," Janie said.  "But I sure won't get much sleep."

     "We'll call you the first time there is any news," Dr. Roberts said.

     "Feel free to call any time!" Janie assured.

     As she was walking toward her car, Janie came face to face with Mark.  They both stopped.

     "Hello, Mark."

     "Hi, Janie.  Any more news on Fifi?"

     "You needn't even go in," Janie replied.  "We know nothing yet."

     "Well," Mark said.  "I might as well go to the snack bar.  I haven't eaten all day!"

     "You haven't?" a worried Janie replied.

     "No.  I worked overtime today--just didn't get around to it."

     "Well, why don't you come by my house and I'll cook us dinner."

     "Uh--I couldn't--I mean--we--," Mark continued.

     "Don't argue," Janie interrupted.  "If you remember anything about my cooking, you'll not leave hungry!"

     "Well, I don't see how it could hurt, Miss Janie," Mark replied.  "Give me a little while to go home and wash up, and I'll be there in a few minutes!"

      "Fine, Mark."

     As they drove home separately, Mark and Janie thought about some of the happy and sad moments of their marriage.  They, in a way, were still concerned about each others well being, but realized that a permanent life together would be impossible.

     At one o clock Sunday morning, everything was silent in the lobby of the Cole hospital.

     Jim, sound asleep in a chair, was suddenly awakened by Dr. Roberts.

     "Fifi died at twelve forty.

Winners and Losers, book 1, chapter 12

     Meanwhile, Taylor and Ginger were getting nowhere with what Taylor had intended to be a reconcilation talk.  Every time they would start to talk, the conversation always ended up on the subject of Marie.  Ginger could not help but feel that Taylor's fun was not over.

     "Are you sure you're not giving her any money?" Ginger asked.

     "I told you, I'm through with her!" Taylor snapped back.  "Please believe me--I'm through with her!"

     "How many times had you been with her before I caught you the other night?"

     "One or two."

     "I don't believe that!"

     "You want me to call Marie? You can talk to her yourself!"

     "That's the last thing I want to do!"

     "What have the children been saying?"

     Ginger said nothing.

     "Okay, Ginger," Taylor said.  "You and I both know what happened.  I messed up.  Let's get this out in the open.  Do you want us to stay together?"

     "You'll get visitation rights, of course, but I don't think we belong together any more!" Ginger replied.  "We haven't really been right for each other for some time.  Maybe ther'll come a day we'll feel differently, but I don't think that'll be any time soon."

     "Yep!" Taylor, his face reddening, said.  "It's like it's always been--you say, 'we,' and you mean, 'you.' You always wanted to make the decisions about everything.  You had to do this, you had to do that.  I--"

     "Good thing we met out here in separate cars," Ginger concluded, as she walked toward hers, and out of Taylor Baker's life forever.

Winners and Losers, book 1, chapter 11

     Fifi Ballinger awoke at ten thirty that morning.  She had been on pills ever since Jim had left that past Thursday.

     Determined to straighten her marital status out, she phoned John Madison.

     John did not usually work on Saturday, but happened to be in his office, looking for a book, when the telephone rang.

     "John," Fifi said.  "I want to make an appointment with you."

     "I know what you want, Fifi," John  said, "and I would be glad to represent you.  However, Clara and I have just been too close to you and Jim as a couple for me to represent you--either of you! I had to tell Mark and Janie Engle the same thing when they were divorced--plenty of people.  Of course, I hope you'll understand."

     "In other words," Fifi said.  "I will have to get another lawyer."

     "Yes.  So will Jim.  I want to remain a friend to both of you."

     "Well, I'll be damned if you're my friend any more! I suggest you try another profession!"

     "Fifi!" John retorted.  'I've been a lawyer for many years.  I think I know what's best!"

     Fifi slammed the receiver down.  Uncertain as to why she behaved in the manner she did, she cried for a few minutes.  She then arose, and headed for the liquor cabinet.  No sooner had she prepared a drink and gotten settled back into bed, than the doorbell rang.  For a minute, she thought about not answering.  But there would be rumors.  Finally, she answered.

     "Just thought I'd come by and see my friend," Janie Engle said.  "Did I wake you?"

     "Oh," a shocked Fifi replied, "no.  C'mon in."

     Janie couldn't ignore the empty glasses, and general disorder of the room.

     "Let me dress," Fifi said.

     "Oh, no," Janie replied.  "I'm not staying long.  Don't go to any trouble over me! I just thought I'd come by and see how you were."

     They sat down.

     "I've been the news lately," Fifi cried.  "Oh, Janie! I don't even know where Jim is--no one knows! I called John Madison a little while ago about the divorce, and he cut me short!" Growing louder, she continued, "He preached to me that he wouldn't represent either of us.  Disgusting, ain't it!"

     "He did the same thing when Mark and I separated.  Have you been entertaining, Fifi?"

     "No, let's plan something."

     "Well, I was just noticing all these empty glasses.  Can I help you clean up?"

     "Oh, Lord," Fifi said.  "I'm so embarrassed! It's just these past few days have been a little too much for me.  Honestly, I had to do something to calm my nerves!"

     Janie arose, and began tidying up.

     "Please don't go to any trouble over my house!" Fifi said.  "Don't worry about it."

     Janie ignored Fifi, and proceeded with the chores.  She picked up four glasses, and took them to the kitchen.  Fifi, totally embarrassed, headed for the bedroom.

     "I'll be right back, Janie."

     "Okay."

     When she reached the bedroom, she headed straight for her drink.  She took the glass, put it to her mouth, and gulped it down.  Two nerve pills followed.  Fifi returned to the living room, as Janie completed the cleaning.

     "Ya really are helpful," Fifi said.  'If I knew anything about hairstyling, I'd help you sometimes!"

     "Think nothing of it!" Janie said.

     The two sat down again.

     "You do know a little about sewing, don't you?" Janie asked.

     "Uh, yes," Fifi, knowing what would come next, answered.

     "Well, tonight I've got to make some things for my nieces.  Why don't you just come help me! we can sew and visit.  We haven't had a good visit since I don't know the day!"

     Fifi thought about it.  She knew she'd probably be drunk, and, even if she wasn't drunk, she'd be doped up. 

     "Can I make it another time, Janie? You know how it is." She hoped Janie understood.

    "Why, certainly," Janie answered. "I understand how things are.  I've got to be going.  Take care of yourself--please."

     "You know I will," Fifi, another drink in mind, said.

     That afternoon, several of the youth of Cole gathered at the country club.  There was swimming, dancing, golfing, and a barbeque.  The college students attending the party would buy drinks and give them to the underage, the only reasons several of the teenagers were there.

     Among those present were Jack Fisher and Margaret Henson, Bill Kazan and Karen Ingram, and Clyde Henson and Kathy King.

     Fifi, unaware of the youth gathering, decided to escape from her problems and retreat to the club.

     Before she left the house, she popped another pill, then took a large gulf of wine.  This, she thought, would "get me going."

     When she drove up to the club, the unusual number of cars didn't scare her away.  She merely assumed there were a lot of golfers, as there usually were on Saturday.

     When she entered the clubhouse, she headed straight for the bar.

     "Good afternoon, " shouted Barlow McGee, the jolly manager of the club who was a friend of the Ballingers.  "How's my baby doing?"

     "Gimme martini, Barlow," Fifi, slurring her words, said, as she sat at the bar.

     "Comin' right up!" Barlow said.  As he was preparing the drink, several college students came storming in, immediately found seats, and made themselves comfortable.

     "What the hell is goin' on?" Fifi asked.

     "Nothing much," Barlow replied.  "The young gang are having a little get together.  They really have a good time out here!"

     "I didn't know they would be here today," Fifi said, sniffing.

     Steven Lee and Valerie Black, both in swimwear, walked through the adjoining ballroom.

     "Why aren't those kids dressed?"  Fifi asked.

     "Aw," Barlow replied.  "Leave 'em alone! Here, take your martini outside and enjoy this beautiful day!"

     "Thanks," Fifi replied.  "Put it on my bill."

     As Fifi proceeded to the pool, she overheard Steven say to Valerie, "That's the lady who ran her husband away."

     Fifi's first thought was to throw her glass at Steven.  Subduing herself, she sat down on a recliner, and stared at the fun everyone was having around and in the swimming pool.

     "Don't you know that's my pool?" Fifi yelled.

     The youths, apparently believeing Fifi was joking, were amused.

     "Get out of my pool!" Fifi said.

     "Yeah," Jack said.  "We all wish we owned this pool! Unfortunately, not all of us are that lucky!"

     "But this is my pool!" Fifi cried.  She quickly arose, and ran toward Margaret, who jumped in and began swimming across.

     Fifi ran to the clubhouse.

     "Barlow! Barlow!" she screamed.

     "What's the matter, Fifi?" Barlow asked.

     "One of those damned children is swimming in my pool!"

     "Are they causing any trouble for you?"

     "I don't know," Fifi, breathless and shivering, answered.  "They are swimming in my pool!"

     "Look, Fifi," Barlow continued, "let's go back to the kitchen.  I didn't think you looked well from the time you came in.  Are you sure you're okay?"

     As several of the youths giggled and whispered among themselves, Barlow grabbed Fifi by the arm and led her into the kitchen.

     "What's the matter, Fifi? Are you feeling okay?"

     At that moment, Fifi dropped her glass, and fell to the floor.  As she lay there on the cold linoleum, Barlow phoned an ambulance.

   

Winners and Losers, book 1, chapter 10

     Saturday morning, Taylor joined his sister, Mildred, for breakfast at the Waffle House.

     "I'm so sorry about all this," Mildred said.

     "Well, I have only myself to blame," Taylor said.  "My real concern now is the children.  Sam's nineteen and Barbara's fifteen, and they're either going to hate me--or--I don't know! I don't want them taking sides!"

     "Nobody's perfect," said Mildred, lighting a cigarette.

     "There's also this mess with Clarence Donovan.  I knew he wasn't perfect, either, but he's on the verge of losing his pharmacy if he doesn't straighten things up."

     "People in Cole have an amazing way of forgiving," Mildred said.  "Why, if everyone here was judged by the scandals, that is, if no one forgave, we'd have no community.  No one would be speaking to each other!"

     "I'm going to call Ginger today and see if we can talk."

     "Good idea," Mildred said.

     Later that day, Leora Carter answered the phone when Taylor called Ginger.

     "May I please speak to Ginger?" Taylor asked.

     "Who's calling?" Leora sarcastically replied.

     "Please let me speak to my wife!"

     There was a pause.

     "Ginger, this is Taylor."

     "Why are you calling?" Ginger asked.

     "You might not go along with this, but I want us to have a meeting, to talk, soon."

     "When?"

     "As soon as possible, Ginger! Whether you know it or not, I still love you.  I want to see our children.  I can't seem to keep up with them."

     "Keep up with them?" Ginger angrily replied.  "We're the ones who can't keep up with you!"

     "Why don't we meet out at the lake?"

     "Fine.  What time?"

     "One thirty."

     "See you then."

     Taylor showered, shaved, and dressed, anticipating the afternoon ahead.

Winners and Losers, book 1, chapter 9

     Friday afternoon, Steven Lee, the tall, seventeen year old great nephew of Julia Armstrong, finally paid a visit to a lonesome Bob Armstrong.

     Bob was sitting on the front porch and saw Steven as the lanky lad walked up the front sidewalk.  Wearing gym shorts, a tank top, and tennis shoes, Steven perspired and brushed his long hair away from his hot forehead.

     "Hey, buddy!" Bob greeted.

     "Hey, Bob," Steven replied, in his youthful, deep voice.  "Sorry for not visiting in so long!"

     "Aw--don't apologize," Bob replied.  "You look like you've been running."

     "Yep," Steven replied.  "I just got through with track practice."

     "Then go back to the kitchen and get us two coca-colas out of the ice box!"

     Steven, at the young age of seventeen, had experienced quite an interesting life to the people of small town Cole.

     When he was seven years old, his beautiful mother died.  Steven was too young at the time to understand this tragedy.

     Over the years, Steven began to look more and more like his mother.  His face, hair color, eyes--these features daily reminded the people of Cole that Steven Lee once had a beautiful mother, and now she was gone.

     When Steven was nine, his father, George, sold their home, and the two moved to an older, smaller house in a less desirable part of town.  In this area, Steven fell in with a tougher group of friends.  He matured early, both physically and emotionally, and his "growing pains" included regular sessions of drinking, smoking, minor vandalism, and having sex with black girls.  None of the adults knew about this misbehavior, until one night when Steven and several other teenagers were hauled in to the local police station, busted for underage beer possession.  George, understandably upset, grounded Steven for several weeks, and during that time Steven did a lot of soul searching, got more involved with the small youth group at the Episcopal church, and began learning more useful skills such as yard work, laundry, etc.  He soon outgrew his petty crimes, did better in school, and developed a loyalty to elderly relatives whom he visited more regularly than others his age did.

     George remarried a woman from Lake Providence, Louisiana, named Edwina Bingham, whom he had been dating for several months.  Steven was shocked by the marriage, though.  During the honeymoon, steven stayed in the home of his father's close friends, a Jewish family named Karl Katz, Karl's sister, Miriam, and Miriam's husband and daughter, Joe and Jeidi Mayer.  The four convinced Steven that things, somehow, always worked out for the best, and even though Edwina might not "hold a candle" to his real mother, there would be other good qualities she would possess.  The few days at the Katz-Meyer home inspired Steven.

     After the remarriage, the Lee's again moved--this time, to a new house, one mile north of Cole.  Steven reached full physical maturity by age seventeen, acquired better manners, and hung out with nicer friends.  While still considered "cool," gone were Steven's wildest days, and he showed a lot of promise.

     Steven returned with the cokes, handed one to Bob, and took a seat in one of the wicker chairs on the porch.

     Knowing how interested Steven was in the adult goings on of Cole, Bob began discussing the events of the past week.

     "Yeah!"  Steven said.  "I've heard a thousand different stories! Since you were at the party, straighten me out!"

     Bob, after several days of a particular story, forgot the main thread, and never kept the facts straight.  Thus, he added to the Cole rumors.  "Well, the doctor--what's his name?"

     "Taylor Baker."

     "Yeah--baker--well, anyway, Taylor Baker went home and beat his wife.  Then, Mark Engle, the fellow at the post office, comes running in and screams, 'Taylor just knocked his wife out!'"

     Of course, Steven knew that Bob, even though he was at the party, was quite confused.  He was really amused by the routine.  Thus, Bob continued.

     "Then, John throws Sam--yes, that's his name--Sam Masters, out for having a bottle of vodka."

     Steven knew that part well.  He'd heard it from Sam and Joycie.

     "I'll bet Joycie was upset!"

     "Upset?" Bob replied.  "She almost had a damn fit! Anyway, you know they've been fighting over there a lot.  I'm eating with them.  Clara tells me that every day Joycie has a bad day, Clara herself has a bad dat.  Clara cries an awful lot, you know!"

     Steven then wanted the scoop on Jim and Fifi Ballinger. 

     "You heard anything about Fifi Ballinger?"

     "The unfortunate thing about Fifi," Bob began, "is that she's not only a whiskey head, but also a pill head!"

     Steven laughed.

     "It's not funny!" Bob said.  "The man that sprays for termites told me he was in the store next to Janie--what's her name?"

     "Janie Engle."

     "Yes--Janie Engle--the girl that runs the beauty parlor! Anyway, the guy that sprays for pests in the old building next to the beauty shop says he saw Fifi go into the shop the other morning, and she looked drunk.  Well, I'll bet you anything she was on pills that morning! I hear she goes in Clarence Donovan's drugstore and buys all sorts of pills, things most people buy once or twice a year--Fifi goes in there every week and buys 'em by the carton!"

     Steven wanted to avoid further discussion about the Donovan drugstore, as he knew of some his girlfriends who'd illegally gotten birth control pills there in the past.

     "Do you know when Julia will be home?" Steven asked.

     "When I talked to her last," Bob replied, "she said she'd be home in a few days, then back to New Orleans!"

     They were discussing Mary Anne's condition when a brown Buick drove up in front of the house, and parked.  Jack Fisher and the girl he was then dating, beautiful Margaret Hensen, got out, and joined Bob and Steven on the porch.

     "We've been looking for you all afternoon, Steven," Jack said.

     "Aren't you excited about tonight?" Margaret asked.

     "Whatever is going on tonight?" Bob asked.

     "Steven has a date with Valerie Black!" Margaret said.

     "I don't believe I know her!" Bob said.  "Give me some background."

     "Well," Jack said, "with the exception of Margaret, she's one of the most beautiful girls at Cole High!  She's being chased by two or three other boys.

     "Yes," Margaret chimed in, "and old Steven has ner tonight."

     "Be careful, Steve!" Bob joked.

     Everyone laughed.

     "Don't worry," Steven said.  "I will."

     After some close calls in the past, Steven meant what he said!
 

    

  

Winners and Losers, book 1, chapter 8

     Thursday morning, Janie Engle opened her beauty shop, as usual, at seven thirty.  There were no appointments until nine thirty.  Thus, she made a cup of coffee, and sat in the small lounge, in the back of the shop.  Thursday was a light day, anyway.  Her two assistants were off, and things were quiet.  Janie enjoyed the peace.

     She had just started reading an article in Ladies Home Journal when she heard the front door open.  She arose, and walked into the shop.

     "Fifi!" Janie said to her friend.  "What on earth are you doing here?"

     Fifi seemed intoxicated, and her speech was slurred.  "Ya gotta fix me up! Got 'nother man.  He's gonna be waiting at the train depot!"

     "What are you talking about?" a concerned Janie asked.

     Fifi  made herself comfortable in a chair.  "Just fis me up--the works!"

     "You don't even have an appointment, Fifi! I can't just start from scratch.  I have to get everything ready!"

     "Go ahead," Fifi laughed.  "I'll be here!"

     "I'll be right with you, Fifi," Janie said.  She walked back to the lounge, and phoned Jim.

     Jim was still asleep.  He had no idea that Fifi, who slept beside him, was gone.  He awoke, and answered, "Hello."

     "Jim--Janie.  I'm sorry to wake you, but do you have any idea where your wife is at the moment?"

     "Of course!" Jim said.  "She's right here." He reached for Fifi, but, of course, felt nothing.  He turned around quickly.  "What th--where the hell is my wife? What's going on?"

     "Please be calm," Janie said.  "Be patient.  I don't know what the matter with Fifi is, but she's here in my shop, insisting I do her hair.  She sounds drunk--can't get here words straight.  She keeps telling me she left you--that she's gonna meet an army officer at the train depot.  Jim, do you realize that the depot closed ten years ago? What on earth is Fifi saying?"

     "She's probably taking pills again," Jim said.  "I'll be right there!" He hung up, dressed, and headed for the beaity parlor.

     Janie stalled.  "Won't you join me for a cup of coffee, Fifi?"

     "I--I want my hair fixed! I got a train waiting!"

     "Where is the train you're getting on?"

     "Right 'ere at 'a Cole depot!"

     "Who is the army officer?"

     "My secret love," Fifi hollered.  "You wouldn't know 'im.  We're gonna elope outta here."

     Janie, by now, was certain there was something wrong with Fifi.

     Suddenly, Jim stormed in.  He ran up to Fifi and grabbed her.  "What the hell are you doing here? Why did you leave the house?"

     Fifi trembled, and looked toward Janie for help.  "He's gonna kill, Janie! Save me!" she cried loudly.

     "What is wrong with her?"  Janie cried.

     "Nothing--nothing!" Jim replied, avoiding Janie's eyes.  "We just had another small argument last night.  I think Fifi took some more pills.  She has these terrible delusions when she does these things!"

     "Don't you think you better see Taylor Baker?" Janie asked.

     "Nothing is wrong," Jim said, "that cannot be corrected soon."  He looked toward Fifi, and squeezed her arm.  "Right?"

     "Wrong!" Fifi yelled, and ran to Janie.  "He's lying when he says nothing is wrong! Jim is a liar! For the past year, our life together has been pure hell--one fight after another.  It's a good thing we don't have any children!"

     "You're a liar!" Jim said.

     "Please believe me, Janie," Fifi continued.  "We might have looked good on the outside--dancing, drinking--but, in reality, we fight like cats and dogs." Fifi quickly pulled her skirt up, revealing a large bandage on her right leg.  "See this! He go a knife to me!"

     "My God!" Janie gasped.  "When did that happen?"

     Like a wild, dumb animal, Fifi growled and sneered at Jim.  "You're a liar and a cheat! You hear me? A liar and a cheat!"

     "Okay!" Jim, all patience lost, said.  "Okay! I'm a liar and a cheat.  Well, Fifi, I'm leaving you! I won't be around any more to protect you when you raid the drug cabinet! You say I'm always beating you--well, I'm leaving! I won't have any reason to beat any more--and you won't have any reason to take it!"

     "Leaving me?" Fifi, shocked, replied.

     "You couldn't have said it nicer!"

     "Uh--oh--good!" Fifi, surprised, said.  "Get gone.  Get your belongings out of the house--I don't want you any more!"

     Jim walked out.

     Fifi sat down.

     "Want me to go ahead and fix your hair?" Janie asked.

     "Why?"

     "What about the army officer?"

     Fifi didn't know what Janie was talking about.

Winners and Losers, book 1, chapter 7

     Taylor arrived at the same time Joycie and John were having an argument.  Clara, remaining silent, witnessed a brutal verbal exchange between her husband and granddaughter. Taylor could hear the shouts, as he walked up the front sidewalk.

     "Sam Masters is nothing but a damn bum!" John said.

     "You're a crazy old man!" Joycie replied.  "You don't know Sam at all!"

     Taylor rang the doorbell.

     "Oh, Lord, John," Clara said.  "You two, please shut up! Joycie, please go to your room.  Joycie left, as John answered the door.

     "Taylor!" John welcomed.  "Come in and have a drink!"

     "Oh, have I had a day!" Taylor sighed.

     Clara brought Taylor a double scotch, and sat down, ready to listen.

     Joycie, meanwhile, thought for the next few minutes about her argument with John.  Finally, from her bed, she called Sam.

     "Please come and get me, Sam," Joycie begged.

     "You're finally ready to elope?"

     "Yes," she answered.  "You'll have to come quick.  It's easier for us to leave from here than me going all the way back to Florida.  I'll--I'll meet you on the street behind the house! Oh, Sam, when I'm with you, nothing else matters."

     "I'll be there as soon as I can," Sam said.

     Meanwhile, John, Clara, and Taylor were discussing the events of Saturday night.  They carefully avoided the business between Taylor and Marie, and lingered more on how the whole town found out.

     "You never know what people will do--er--say, in Cole!" Clara said.

     "Things have really been blown out of proportion," John stated.  "I heard someone in the grocery store say that, instead of Jim beating Fifi up, that you beat Ginger up!"

     Taylor thought about that remark.  "Could you explain that, Clara? What do you mean?"

     "Well," Clara began, "in the beauty shop, Janie Engle said that Marie had been going all over town telling everyone how much she loves you.  Apparently, she caused a lot of this nonsense talk!"

     "Well," John said, "I think we've talked enough about the matter.  How are Jim and Fifi, Taylor?"

     "Fine," Taylor, his mind on Marie's alleged remarks, replied.  "Just fine."

     It had not struck Taylor until that moment that Marie was the main cause of all his martial and general business problems.  She had distracted, he realized, not only his loyalty to home and work, but also his sense of honor.  She, by "letting the cat out of the bag," had done the main damage, he thought.

     After more drinks and chatter, Taylor left the Madison's house.  Destination:  the home of Marie Treacher.

     At that same time, Bob Armstrong was talking to Julia over the telephone.

     "Yes, that was some party," Bob hollered.  "Jim drags Fifi out, and half an hour later, Taylor Baker comes in and says, 'Jim beat up Fifi.'"

     "A doctor can't go around spilling the beans about his patients!" Julia replied.  "Hell, I never trusted that Taylor Baker, anyway!"

     "Somebody told me this morning that a man from the state board of health was here investigating Clarence Donovan," Bob continued.

     "Clarence Donovan's another one who should be run out of town!"

     "Listen," Bob said, "the real reason I called you was to find out how our girl is!"

     "She's fine," Julia said.  "I'm the one whose tired! I've made a hundred trips up and down those steps today! The next time you see young Joycie Madison, warn her to have her 'chillens' early in life!"

     "She'll have to get married first, honey!" bob laughed.  "She's just a picture of innocence now!"

     Owing to the thoughts then in Joycie's head, she could have really surprised Bob and Julia.

     After saying "goodnight" to her grandparents and apologizing for her behavior, Joycie went to her room, packed, and turned out the lights.  Suitcase in hand, she then climed out the back window.

     Sam never showed up.

     Joycie realized, after some deliberation, that her whole idea to elope was just a big joke to Sam.

     Taylor drove past Marie's house severeal times before he stopped, mainly to assure himself that her rough husband, Mack, was gone.

     Finally, he had to courage to stop.  He'd only stay a few minutes, and he didn't care what people said--he was going to get several things straight, once and for all.  He would merely attempt to find out how much Marie talked, and to distinguish truth from rumor.

     Taylor nervously walked to the door.  He rang the doorbell.  marie, clad in lingerie, answered.

     "I knew you wouldn't let me down!" Marie said, grabbing Taylor.  "Please sleep here with me tonight.  Mack won't be back until tomorrow."

     Taylor brutally pushed Marie away.

     "I came here for one reason, and one reason only!" he yelled.

     "Taylor," a shocked Marie said.  "Calm down.  Please! Come sit down and tell me what the matter is!"

     "I'll kill you if I have to," Taylor said.  "Are you going to answer what I ask you?"

     "It depends on what the question is."

     "I want to know something from you--one thing--then I'm gonna get outta this hole! How much have you talked about our relationship? I know it didn't leak out without someone telling, and it sure as hell wasn't me!"

     Marie was silent.

     "You tell me, or I'll kill you right here!" Taylor, raising his fist, yelled.  "I'm in so much trouble, I don't care what happens now!"

     Marie lit a cigarette, and sat back on the sofa.

     "Tell me!"

     "Please--please get out of here and leave me alone! I'm going to call the police if you don't get out of here! You're being completely unreasonable.  You should have known all along that everyone knew about us! Leora Carter was just too sumpathetic to talk to your wife about it much, but she knew.  You never understood that."

     Taylor sighed.  A long silence followed.

     "Who else knew besides Leora? Was there anyone in particular you told?"

     "My sister, Betty Rayburn."

     "Are you  completely crazy? Your sister has one of the biggest mouths in town! Why did you tell
her?"

     "Betty and I share everything," Marie laughed.

     "Well," Taylor said, "there is one thing you aren't going to share--me! I'm through with you forever.  You've ruined my family life--and practically ruined my reputation as a doctor! It might do me good to leave this town!"

     "Wouldn't you take me with you?"

     "You've got to be kidding!" Taylor laughed.  "Do you realize that there is little hope of reconciliation between me and my wife? You must be nuts, just as I had imagined."

     "But you told me you loved me!"

     "To make this less painful for both of us, I'll be blunt! I don't love you, Marie.  I'm leaving this house right now!"

     As Taylor walked toward the door, he turned around and said, "Go cry to your husband.  He probably still loves you!"

     Marie sat motionless for awhile.  Her show was over.  Another lover had just walked out of her life, and she began thinking of the next.  He would be much younger, she thought.

Winners and Losers, book 1, chapter 6

     Word leaked out, and, by Monday morning, telephones were continually ringing in the houses of Cole.
   
     Leora tried to hold back as much as possible, but many people got the "scoop" from her.  By noon, Leora decided to take the telephone off the hook.  Though on edge, she did manage to hold her temper in front of the children.

     Tuesday, Taylor moved to a local motel, until further arrangements could be made.

     Wednesday morning, to top it off, Clarence Donoban, Taylor's shifty pharmicist, entered the office.

     "Taylor," Clarence began, "we're in trouble."

     "What do you mean, we're in trouble?" Taylor snapped.

     "Somehow--the--word got around--about your big mouth."

     "What are you talking about?" Taylor, burning with anger, replied.

     "The word got out about when--when you returned to that party--and told everyone about Jim and Fifi.  Obviously, though, things are mixed up even further! Marie Treacher is going all over town telling people how much she loves you--and wanting to know how Jim and Fifi are doing!"

     "I have never been in trouble like this," Taylor sighed.  "I might lose my home, job, everything, all because of one night of whiskey and cheap sex."  He paused.  "What's your problem, anyway?"

     "Today there was an inspector from the state board of health in--in the drugstore.  I didn't know he was an inspector.  One of the soda jerks was filling a prescription."

     "You damn fool!" Taylor shouted, slamming his fist down on his desk.  "How could you be so stupid?"

     "Hold your horses, Taylor," the trembling old man said.  "You know I've been too busy to fill every prescription you send me, and my other pharmicist moved away about a year ago, remember? I haven't been able to hire anyone else yet."

     "So, you're letting the soda jerks fill prescriptions now?" Taylor sarcastically asked.  "How sweet!"

     Clarence stormed out of the office, slamming the door behind him.

     At five thiry that afternoon, Taylor was walking out of his office as the telephone rang.

     "Dr. Baker," he wearily answered.

     "Oh, Taylor," Marie said.  "I've got to see you, we've got to talk!"

     "Where are you, Marie?" Taylor replied.

     "I'm in a hurry, can't talk now.  My husband will be home any minute.  Oh, Taylor, let's meet at your cabin tonight."

     "I've got news for you, baby," Taylor replied.  "You've caused me more trouble than pleasure.  The party is over, Mrs. Treacher!"

     "I've got to see you!" Marie cried.  "I want things to get straight between us!"

     "Things are as straight between us as they'll ever be!" Taylor said.  "You're not going to make any more trouble for me!"

     "Why did you tell me you loved me, you damn idiot?"

     "I don't remember that," Taylor replied.  "But I do remember giving you a lot of money.  You've ruined my chances of ever having the full respect of my family, even this community, again.  You got your money from me--now, leave me alone!"

     "Well, Dr. Baker," Marie said.  "You haven't heard the last of me!"

     Simultaneously, both telephone receivers were slammed down.

     As Taylor was driving home, he decided to call on the Madison's.  He figured they would listen to him, and hoped they'd understand.  After all, it was their party he went to on that fateful night!

Winners and Losers, book 1, chapter 5

     Meanwhile, Ginger, Taylor's wife, was, unbeknownst to her husband, returning to Cole.  She decided to return home earlier than expected, and surprise Taylor.  The surprise, unfortunately, would not be as planned.

     Ginger had, for some time, suspected adultery on the part of Taylor and a young, well shaped woman by the name of Marie Jones Treacher.

     On the way home, Ginver decided to stop by the country cottage and pick up some recipes she had left there.  As she drove toward the cabin, she saw Marie's car parked next to Taylor's.  There were no lights on in the cabin.  It hit her suddenly, but what she had been suspecting for months, she now realized was true.  She turned around, and headed for town.

     Ginger went to the home of her best friend, Leora Carter, who had recently been divorced.  Ginger and Leora intimately shared each other's secrets.  Leora was ready, at any time, for Ginger to call on her as a witness to a divorce case.

     Ginger went to the door.  After ringing the doorbell, she heard Leora approaching.

     "Hello, dear," Leora, in her housecoat, said.

     "I'm in trouble," Ginger said, "and I need your help."

     As the two sat down, Leora lit a cigarette.  "What's the matter, Ginger?"

     "Did you go to John and Clara's party tonight?"

     "Yes.  I didn't stay long, though."

     "Do you remember seeing Taylor?"

     "Let me see," Leora thought back.  "Uh--yes! He had to leave, though."

     "I see," Ginger said.  "Oh, Leora, I know this sounds like an inquest, but did he return?"

     "I don't know.  When I left, he had not."

     "I have a funny feeling something is going on."

     "You mean--Marie Treacher?"

     "Yes," Ginger said.  "I decided to come home early.  I stopped by the cabin on the way, and saw her car parked by my husband's!"

     "Oh, God," Leora said. "All this time--along along, I thought you were only imagining these terrible things!"

     "Leora, do you think you can be a witness for me tonight?"

     Leora thought about her two small children, asleep, upstairs.

     "The children--I can't just leave them here."

     "I'm desperate," Ginger said.  "You must come to the cabin with me! I've got to get to that cabin."

     "I'll arrange something," Leora said.

     Leora made sure the lights of her next door neighbor were on, and telephoned her.

     "Catherine, I'm sorry to call this late, but do you think you could come over here and sit with Melvin and Susan for a little while.  I won't be gone long, and they're asleep."

     "Certainly," the neighbor said.  "Cathy just got home from a date.  She hasn't gone to bed yet.  I'll send her over."

     "Thank you very much, Catherine," Leora said.

     After Leora dressed, the two women headed for the cabin.

     The two cars were plainly in sight, still at the cabin, as ginger and Leora drove up.

     "Get the keys out of the glove compartment," Ginger said.

     "Ginger, I'm nervous about this.  Suppose they have a gun."

     "I'm not even considering such trivia," Ginger angrily said.  "All I want to do is catch them!"

     "I can't understand this," Leora said.  "Marie's married, too."

     "She's probably a whore," Ginger said.  "I wasn't enough for Taylor! This is probably not the first time, but he won't get by with it, this time!"

     Once inside the cabin, Ginger whispered to Leora, "Stay in front.  I'll let you know when I need
you.

     Ginger walked through the narrow hall, and stopped at the bedroom door.  From inside the bedroom, she could hear the bed rattling and Marie's groans.  She flung the door open, and switched on the light.

     Taylor quickly turned over.  "What th--?"

     "What are you doing here, you damn bastard?" Ginger screamed.  "Why aren't you at home with your wife and children?"

     "Uh--I--what are you doing here? How did you get here?"

     "What do you mean? I'm going to take both of you to court!" Ginger cried.

     Leora entered.  "Well, let's get dressed! You never know who else might be coming by!"

     "This is no time for jokes," Marie chimed in.

     "Stay out of it," Taylor said to Marie.  "You better get dressed and get out of here."

     Ginger and Leora said nothing, and walked out.

     As the two women headed home, Leora said, "I think you've proved your point, Ginger.  I'll be your witness, and I'm sure there won't be any problem with alimony! Look, honey, I'm sorry this happened.  Life goes on."

     "Meet me for church in the morning!" Ginger said.

     "Will do!" assured Leora.