PHYLLIS'S HOSPITALITY

1941

This is another tale that 90 year olds usually don’t tell to their children or grandchildren, but since this group of stories is entitled “Memories of Phyllis,” and since I am the rememberer, I must tell it. It is one of the prime memories of my life.

This tale involves one of our frequent evening trips to Chillao. Chillao is a little valley about 30 minutes from town in the mountains above Flintridge and La Canada. There are many, little frequented, side roads among the pines. Phyllis and I came here often for a little love making.

When I say little, I mean not as much as we both wanted. But she was 5 years younger than I, and though we were in love, she was afraid. I gratefully took what I could get and knew that the time would come.

This particular night, even though she was still afraid, she must have felt that the time had come, for when I made my move, she consented. Her consent was the thrill of a lifetime. I’d been waiting for so long. I availed myself of Phyllis’ hospitality, not once, but 4 times! A feat I could never repeat!

The wonderful bond that had been growing between us multiplied! There was no doubt in my mind, and I’m sure there wasn’t in hers that we both wanted to spend the rest of our lives together.

She was 17 and she was beautiful and sweet. AND SHE WAS ALL MINE!

In a year we would start our 66 ½ year marriage. There was a long and wonderful life ahead of us! I walked on air!

I thank God, or whoever, or whatever is responsible for letting us have this.

I grieve for the loss of her, but I am so thankful to have had her for so long.