When Sheila reached the Town Hall, crowded between Sylvester and joyous Babe in her turquoise blue on the front seat of the Ford, while the back seat was occupied by Girlie in scarlet and "Momma" in purple velveteen, the dance was well under way.

I just saw her peeping at me one day through the parlor curtains while I was saying sweet nothings to Girlie on the porch.

"You'd better get back to the dishes," said Girlie over her shoulder.

Sylvester called itand Girlie with a soft, unyielding tyranny that had the smothering pressure of a large silk pillow.