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Texas Gal
by C. Sprite
© 1999
Chapter Thirteen Lumber 102
Susan and I climbed out of bed as soon as we were awake and went into Auntie's room. She was still sleeping so I opened up her curtains to let the morning sun in while Suz went into the bathroom to run our bath. Auntie stirred with the sunlight on her face and when I was sure that she was awake, I went into the bathroom.
We were soaking in the tub when Judy and Mary arrived. As always, we talked about our day. My sisters wanted to know why I was going to Portland today, so I told them about the site inspection and how Grandma wanted to test the manager for a possible promotion. After we had finished our bath, I went to my bedroom, made my face, and dressed in the suit and blouse that Grandma wanted me to wear today. I put on some of the jewelry that she had sent with the clothes and stepped into some perfume. After my suitcase was packed and the clothes bag sealed, I went to the kitchen. My sisters had already made breakfast so I sat down as Auntie came in, and we ate. At 7:30 Auntie got up to leave, kissed me goodbye and wished me a pleasant trip. I sat and talked with my sisters for another ten minutes, then went to my bedroom for a final check of my appearance. I applied my lipstick, picked up my cases and my notebook, and carried everything to the front porch.
My sisters came down with me and we sat on the porch until Grandma arrived in the limousine. I kissed my sisters' goodbye as Charles came around, took my bags, and opened up the back door for me. "Good morning, Miss Darla," he said. "You're looking very lovely this morning."
"Good morning, Charles. Thank you."
As I climbed into the rear seat, the plane passed overhead on final approach. Charles closed the door, and Grandma and I waved to my sisters. Charles drove us to the hanger ramp and parked beneath the carport so that the car would be shaded from the merciless Texas sun. We sat in the rear seat until the plane taxied to the ramp and turned off the engine on the passenger entrance side. Charles opened the door for us and offered us his hand to help us out. Then he took the suitcases to the plane, and helped the co-pilot load them aboard. Grandma kept her briefcase and I held onto my new notebook. We boarded the plane, and to my surprise, Charles also boarded and took a seat. The co-pilot closed the stairs/door and, within minutes, the pilot had restarted the left engine and we were airborne.
Once we had leveled off, and the engine noise had reduced slightly, Grandma explained that Charles would accompany me on my tour. It had been her intention all along to have him with me. She told me that in addition to his position as butler, he was also a very competent bodyguard. She felt certain that he would not be needed but he would be there to guarantee that nothing could happen. She explained that he had been fully briefed about my task and understood that I was to act like the worst sort of 'rich spoiled brat' ever to come out of a wealthy household. He would do everything possible to perpetuate that myth. He would not think badly of me, no matter how terrible I acted in my role, because he knew that I would only be acting. That knowledge made me feel much better. I intended to be a real little witch. I only hoped that Mr. Sloan would forgive me someday.
We started work immediately on my performance. Grandma told me everything that she could think of that would irritate Mr. Sloan. I had to understand that on the job site, he was like a little god. He spoke and everybody jumped to do his bidding. He controlled as many as two hundred men. She showed me what she wanted me to examine in the office. She wanted me to key in on one particular employee who had taken a lot of time off. The employee's wife was very ill and the man had to care for his young children. Grandma wanted me to tell Mr. Sloan that the employee's absence was unacceptable and that I was going to recommend that he be dismissed. This was certainly not the case, and the company was in reality doing everything it could to help him. But Grandma thought that this would irritate Mr. Sloan. She also told me several other things that would get under his skin quickly. I was also to treat Charles badly. He was prepared for this and had even practiced his facial responses.
While we were talking, Captain O'Toole came back to greet us. He apologized for being late. He said that the mechanic decided to change a fuel pump at the last minute to correct a power fluctuation problem in one of the engines. We told him that we had not been inconvenienced at all, and appreciated the added safety. He told me that his family had loved the cake. He had given half to his co-pilot and then wished that he hadn't. I told him that I was happy that they had enjoyed it. He said that there was coffee and tea in the galley, and some snacks, although their taste would pale next to my cake. We thanked him and he returned to the cockpit. Grandma and I went back to work. Charles brought us some tea after about an hour.
When we landed, there was a car waiting. Charles drove us to a restaurant for lunch and afterward we returned to the plane. Another car, with driver, was there to take Grandma to the headquarters. Charles and I boarded the plane and went to the airport closest to the logging site. I prepared myself for my role by recalling every movie, that I could remember, where there had been a spoiled brat. As we landed, I apologized to Charles for my upcoming behavior. He said that he understood and was actually looking forward to seeing my performance. As we stepped off the plane, I slipped into my role. I found fault with everything that Charles did. He put a sour expression on his face and it never changed for the rest of the day, until we were back on the plane. The driver who picked us up, Lenny by name, tried to be cordial, but I acted bored and ignored him.
When we got to the site, Mr. Sloan was there to greet us. He looked at me, smiled, and said, "I was expecting your Grandmother."
"She had other things to do. The 'old bag' stuck me with this miserable job. Well, let's get it over with. We'll start in the office."
The last time I had been here, I had hardly spoken two words. He smirked as we headed for the office, probably figuring that this was going to be the easiest inspection that he had ever been through. If he knew what he was in for, he would have stayed home today! He opened the door to the trailer and I stepped in. I immediately went to his desk and sat down in his chair. Grandma said that commandeering their desk usually bothers most management types, and really sets the stage for what will follow. I noticed that the smirk had disappeared. It did bother him. I told him what reports I wanted to see. I opened up my notebook as he went to the filing cabinets to get them. Charles stood by in the corner and never uttered a word. As Mr. Sloan brought the first reports over, he asked if we wanted anything to drink. I told him, very abruptly, that we didn't need anything, and just give me the reports that I had asked for. Over the next hour, I kept him hopping up for additional paperwork. His expression had turned very sour. I had started calling him Sloan instead of Mr. Sloan. I had made a big deal over the absence of the employee that Grandma had told me about. When I said that I was going to recommend his dismissal, Mr. Sloan voiced an objection for the first time. He told me about the man's problems and after several minutes of listening to his protests, I waved them off with my hand and told him that that was not the company's problem and I didn't want to hear another word about it. When we were, at last, finished in the office, Mr. Sloan's face had become quite red.
He calmed a little as we drove to different parts of the site but when I started to find fault with his operation he started to turn red again. At several places I pointed to idle equipment and he would explain why it was idle. I commented that the company has a great deal of money tied up in that equipment and it should be in operation. He seemed quite surprised that I correctly identified the equipment and its function. When I commented on several pieces of equipment parked in an out of the way area, he told me that they were broken down and he was having trouble getting the parts to repair them. I noticed that the equipment brand was one that I had read about in one of the articles that Grandma had given me to read. A large parts distributor had just recently been named as their primary outlet after the distributor had built a new facility, and stocked it fully, just to handle the new line.
"Have you tried Black & Stevenson in Seattle?" I asked.
"They don't stock parts for this manufacturer."
"Yes, they do, and don't contradict me. Call them today. I want that equipment repaired and operating, Sloan."
Through clenched teeth he said, "Yes ma'am. I'll call them. But I don't think it will do any good."
I continued to pick on every nitpicking thing that I could think off. At several places, I had asked questions that required that he go find the job foreman in order to get the answers. I had an opportunity to talk with some of the workers while not in his presence. When we were through, we drove back to the office in silence. His face was, by now, a red mottled mass. When I made a comment about his poor selection of the office trailer location, he said, "That's it. Nobody should have to put up with this. Lenny, get this little bitch out of here while I can still control myself." He stomped back to his office. I figured that he was either going to have a drink or take some blood pressure medicine. I put a snooty expression on my face and got into the car.
On the way back to the airport, Lenny tried to intercede for his boss. He told me how wonderful he was to all the men. They worked extra hard for him because they respected him so much. He didn't understand why Mr. Sloan had gotten so upset. He had never seen him like that in the five years that he had worked for him. Something must have happened to set him off and he hoped that I would not hold it against him. I didn't respond to him at all. When we arrived at the plane, I got out of the car and walked to the plane with out saying a word. The plane taxied and took off.
When we were airborne I put my face in my hands and wept as I let the tension drain from my body. Charles came over and sat across from to me. He tried to console me and told me that it was all over now. I told him that that had been the most difficult thing that I had ever done.
"Miss Darla, that was the best performance that I have ever seen. I would have paid money to see that. You're a lot like your grandmother. I have seen her in action many times over the years, but your performance should win an Oscar."
I smiled at him and thanked him. I wiped the tears from my eyes. He asked if I would like a cup of tea and I told him that I would love one. While he went to get it, I fixed my face. He came back and we talked about the inspection. Then we changed to personal things and I started to learn about him. Once I got him started, he talked about himself until the plane began to descend.
The captain announced that we were about to land and should buckle up. When the plane stopped, the co-pilot opened the stairs/door and we stepped off. Charles escorted me to the car after I thanked our pilots for the trip.
We drove to the apartment and found that Grandma was already there. I filled her in on the events of the inspection as we relaxed in the living room. As I told her how I had treated Mr. Sloan, she was both concerned and bemused. She broke out in laughter at a couple of points. She laughed hardest, when I had told her about ordering him to call Black & Stevenson, and how he had responded through clenched teeth. When I had finished, she looked at Charles. Without prompting, he told her the story from his perspective. He finished by telling her that he felt that I deserved an Oscar. She smiled at this last remark because it was so unlike him to add such comments.
"And how do you feel about Mr. Sloan? Should he be promoted?" she asked me.
"I find his operation to be most efficient and productive. His men like him, and are very loyal to him. He has earned that loyalty through mutual trust, support, and hard work. He held his temper until the very end despite my best efforts to make him lose it. I admire Mr. Sloan and believe that he deserves to be promoted."
Grandma had been taking notes as I talked. "Thank you for your appraisal, and your very hard work. I know how difficult it was on you today."
"Will you be needing me anymore until it's time to leave for dinner?" Charles asked.
"No. Thank you, Charles. I shall ring you."
"Very good, madam." He turned to leave. I ran over to him and gave him a kiss on his cheek.
"Thank you for everything, Charles."
He blushed and said, "My pleasure, Miss Darla."
Grandma and I sat and talked some more about the day. She told me what she had done and I talked a little more about the inspection. Nothing concerning Mr. Sloan, just regular inspection details. At 6 o'clock, she said that it was time for us to start getting ready for dinner so we went to our bedrooms. Charles was waiting for us when we went downstairs. He drove us to a restaurant where we were to meet some Trumbell Lumber Company executives. This dinner went much like the last one that I had participated in, except that during the meal, a photographer suddenly took our picture. Restaurant personnel grabbed him and pushed him out the front door, but not before he had taken five more pictures. Grandma told me not to worry about it. Press people were always trying to take candid pictures of business executives and celebrities. We returned to the apartment at eleven and we immediately retired. I feel asleep promptly after performing my bedtime rituals.
In the morning, we went to the same restaurant where we'd had breakfast the last time. Tony greeted us like old friends. We ordered his French Toast and when he came, I told him what a hit it had been with my family in Texas. He was very pleased and he told to eat before our food got cold. While we ate, he asked me if I liked a good omelet. When I said yes, he gave me his secrets for making omelets. When we left, I thanked him and promised that I wouldn't tell anyone.
We arrived at company headquarters as people were arriving for work and proceeded immediately to Grandma's office where I made some tea. Her secretary brought in some fresh milk for us. I sat and read the WSJ while she worked at her desk until it was time for the meeting. At 9 o'clock we walked to the conference room. The VPs were already there. When we arrived Grandma said, "You all remember my granddaughter from her last visit?" They greeted me and I smiled and nodded to them. I sat in the same chair that I had occupied last time, behind Grandma and to her right. She started the meeting and they went through a variety of topics. When all the regular business was taken of, Grandma said that she wanted to discuss the reporting forms that they had recently reviewed. Each man opened a folder and removed his copies along with a copy of his report. Grandma took her copies of the reports out of her briefcase.
She opened the discussion and everyone talked about the report that they had submitted. Basically, they said what they had written and I had an opportunity to put faces with the names that I had seen on the reports. I had never been fully introduced to these men and only knew Mr. Clemmons' name because of Grandma having singled him out at the last meeting.
When the normal discussion was over and Grandma asked if there were any additional questions. Mr. Turner raised his right forefinger, and without waiting for acknowledgement said, "Mrs. Moore, I contacted personnel to get some information about this D.A. Drake, and they said that there is no one by that name on the company payroll."
Mr. Connors then said that he had been told the same thing.
Grandma said, "Gentlemen, I'm curious, how would learning about D.A. Drake affect your evaluation of the forms?"
"Oh, not at all," Mr. Turner said. "I called after I had written and submitted the report."
Mr. Connors said the same.
"Then why would you want to know about Drake?" Grandma asked.
Mr. Connors looked a little embarrassed and said, "I wanted to see if I could offer him a spot in my department. You said that he was a newcomer and I thought that if he was that new, then I might be able to steal him without offending anybody."
Mr. Turner said that he'd had the same idea.
Grandma said, "Gentlemen, I commend your efforts and, as always, I appreciate your candor. We shall begin use of the new forms with the next reporting cycle if you all concur."
Everybody nodded and some said, "Definitely."
Mr. Turner persisted with his original inquiry and said, "Mrs. Moore, could you tell us about this man Drake. Who is he, what's his background, and where does he works? Will we have an opportunity to meet him? Is he going to be reviewing each of our departments?"
The other executives started to voice their desire to meet this new 'idea' man.
"Mrs. Moore, based on what we've seen so far, Drake has excellent insight," Mr. Connors said. "If we could meet with him, we may be able to develop other new ideas which could help the company become more productive."
"Very well gentlemen," Grandma said. "Since you insist, I will fill you in. Drake works exclusively for me at the present time. Drake is highly intelligent but hasn't completed certain educational requirements, as yet. As far as when you will meet Drake, Gentlemen, you already have." Turning slightly to gesture to me, she said, "You've all met my granddaughter, Darla Anne Drake".
A couple of the VPs dropped eyeglasses and pens.
I looked at them, and gave them a demure smile with my hands folded on my lap. You could have heard a pin drop. Several men had dropped their jaws and sat staring at me with their mouths open.
Grandma waited a minute and said, "Would anybody like to amend his report?"
It was another half-minute before anybody moved, there were a few coughs, and then they all shook their heads.
"Mrs. Moore," Mr. Donovan asked, "is this another of your little jokes. You can't honestly expect us to believe that this young girl designed these new forms."
"This is no joke," Grandma said. "Darla Anne is SOLELY responsible for the forms. I asked her to review some information and she told me that the reports were inadequate, and then gave me these revised forms with the suggestion that they would do a better job for us. She had wished to remain anonymous because she foresaw your skepticism, and felt that you might dismiss future suggestions based solely on her age and sex."
Mr. Clemmons, who remembered me from the last time, when I had provided information that he could not, said, "Gentlemen, and Mrs. Moore, after what I witnessed at our meeting several weeks ago, I, for one, believe it." He stood up and started clapping slowly while looking at me.
The other men stood up and began to clap, then applaud loudly. I turned crimson.
"That's enough Gentlemen," Grandma said. "You're embarrassing the poor girl."
They smiled and stopped clapping, then sat down.
Mr. Turner smiled and said, "That offer of a job in my department is always open, and I would be receptive to any ideas that you wish to share with us."
All the other VPs echoed similar sentiments.
I thanked them and told them that I would remember their kind offers.
"If there is no additional business," Grandma said, "then I suggest we adjourn."
Everyone rose and started organizing their papers. As Grandma and I walked out, everybody patted me lightly, on the arms or back and told me how impressed they were. I smiled and thanked them, but I was glad to get away. We went to Grandma's office, where she worked at her desk while I read the WSJ. A number of people came in to speak briefly with her and smiled at me as they passed.
At noon we walked to the executive dining room. It was similar to the conference room, with a large table in the middle of the room, but a waitress came and took our food orders from a small menu card, like on a train. Most of the other executives came in to eat and talk business. This time they did not exclude me from the conversations. They treated me as a full equal. After lunch we returned to Grandma's office. After about twenty minutes, her secretary buzzed to tell her that Mr. Sloan was here. She told her to have him wait for a minute.
"Darla Anne, come sit back here." She pointed to a chair behind her. When I was seated, she told her secretary to send Mr. Sloan in. When he came in, he saw me immediately and I noticed that he set his jaw. Grandma pointed to chair in front of her desk and asked him to sit down. He plopped into the chair. It was apparent that he thought that he was in for a reprimand, or worse.
"Mr. Sloan, my granddaughter has told me about her inspection tour yesterday. She indicated that you called her a vulgar name. Is that true?"
"Mrs. Moore, I apologize for my words. I rarely lose my temper but I did yesterday. The first time I met your granddaughter, I thought her to be a sweet innocent child."
"And you have revised your opinion?"
"Yes, I most certainly have. Yesterday, I learned that she knows this business as well as, or better than, anybody that works on that mountain with me does. But, I also learned that she is cold, rude, and ruthless. But that was no excuse for my behavior. I'm sorry."
"Would you like to hear her evaluation of you?"
"Oh, I can hardly wait."
Grandma smiled. She opened up her notebook. "Darla Anne's report states, 'I find his operation to be most efficient and productive. His men like him, and are very loyal to him. He has earned that loyalty through mutual trust, support, and hard work. He held his temper until the very end despite my best efforts to make him lose it. I admire Mr. Sloan and believe that he deserves to be promoted."
Mr. Sloan just sat and looked at her, then said, "I don't understand."
"It's quite simple. You have been given a glowing recommendation, and are being promoted to Supervisor of West Coast Logging Operations based on that recommendation. You will assume Mr. Carmichael's position upon his retirement next week."
He stared at me for a minute. "But yesterday I thought she wouldn't trust me to fetch water?"
Grandma laughed and I giggled. "My little granddaughter is quite an actress." She held out her hand and I walked to her and she put her arm around me. "Darla Anne's assignment was to push you to the breaking point to see how you would react. I'm sorry that we had to do it, but I had to know how you would act under stress. You're right about her knowledge of the business, but totally wrong about the 'cold, rude, and ruthless.' A more lovable, and compassionate soul doesn't live."
"What about Joe Clausen?"
"We are doing everything we can to help him and his family."
"He's not being dismissed?"
"Mr. Sloan, we don't kick our people when they're down. You should know how this company operates by now."
"I thought I did, until yesterday."
"Your anger at his supposed mistreatment was noted, and approved of."
"Then that whole inspection was only an inspection and test of me?"
"You know how thorough we are. When we promote to a top management position, we must make sure that the candidate is worthy. Darla Anne has said that you are, and I support her recommendation."
"I don't know what to say."
"You can start by saying that you don't hold any animosity towards my granddaughter, for her effective testing of you for this job."
"Oh, yes, of course. Miss Darla, I'm terribly sorry for what I said yesterday. I feel so foolish now."
"It's okay, Mr. Sloan. I had it coming. I had almost begun to think that I wasn't going to be able to get you to 'crack.' I'm terribly sorry that I had to put you through that. I hope that we can still be friends. I do admire you, despite the awful things that I said yesterday and the horrible way that I treated you. Also, please extend my apologies to Lenny. I was rude to him while I was in my role. I wanted so badly to be friendly towards him after he was so nice to us, but I feared that a change in my behavior might give me away."
"I would be happy to be your friend. Since I have you to thank for this promotion, how could I be otherwise. And I'll explain to Lenny. He's a real nice guy and I know that he'll understand. Uh, would you answer a question for me?"
"If I can."
"Last week I received a set of proposed reporting forms for my review and opinions. Ten minutes ago, I heard a rumor that you designed them. Is that true?"
"Yes. Did you approve of them?"
"Whole heartily. They'll be easier to complete than the old ones, and convey a more accurate picture. There are a few items on the present forms that I've always wondered about. They're very time-consuming to compile, and I couldn't imagine how that information could assist anyone. I even tried to find out who D.A. Drake was, but nobody knew. And…. I'm even more in awe of you now than I was a few minutes ago." Sheepishly he added, "And by the way, Black & Stevenson did have the parts we need and they should arrive today. That equipment will be up and operating by the beginning of the new week."
"Wonderful, Mr. Sloan."
"Mr. Sloan," Grandma said, "thank you for coming in today. Mr. Malone will meet with you tomorrow to discuss the transition. You'll be expected to recommend possible replacements for your old position, and should be prepared to support your recommendations."
"Thank you, Mrs. Moore. You won't be sorry for promoting me. I'll work even harder than I have before. And with Miss Darla inspecting, I'll make doubly sure that there are no holes in my operation for her to find." He came over and kissed my hand. "Thank you Miss Darla. I won't let you down."
"You're most welcome, Mr. Sloan. Good luck in your new position. Goodbye."
He left the office a totally different man than the one that had come in, and with good reason.
"Well done, sweetheart," Grandma said. "We have filled a key position with an intelligent individual, and we have a newly energized manager who will work extra hard to insure the success of our company." Grandma completed her paperwork, packed her briefcase, and we left.
Her secretary said, "Goodnight, Mrs. Moore. Goodnight, Miss Drake."
We both said, "Goodnight." We passed at least a dozen more people and they all acknowledged me by name. As we left the building, we found Charles waiting with the car. The plane was ready when we reached the airport, and we were airborne within minutes of boarding. Charles served us tea, and we sat back to relax.
I looked out the window as we rose above the clouds. "You're very quiet, Darla Anne," Grandma said. "Is anything wrong?"
"I'm confused, Grandma."
"Tell me what's confusing you, dear."
"It's the same thing that I've been feeling all along. I still haven't resolved it in my own mind. I don't feel that I've done anything special, yet your executives stood and applauded me."
"You did something that they had not thought to do. Year after year, they, and I, have continued to use a set of forms that were far less useful then you ones that you designed. Yet nobody thought to revise them until you came along. The designs of the forms show that you have a good understanding of lumber operations. And also, it takes a lot of courage to buck the 'status quo.' They applauded you because you have displayed knowledge, insight, and courage by suggesting the revisions. Add to that, the fact that you are an 11-year-old girl, and their standing ovation is understandable. You clearly surprised them. They were expecting D.A. Drake to be a grown man, with years of experience in the lumber industry, not a young girl. Do you understand?"
"Yes. Thank you Grandma. I do understand better now…But why aren't they upset about being upstaged by an 11 year old?"
"They had already acknowledged to themselves that somebody had proposed an idea that had eluded them, or 'upstaged' them as you put it. People who aspire to, and attain, top management positions, are generally egotists. They do not like to be 'upstaged' by anybody. But as a young girl, you pose no threat to their jobs or careers. It may be a little hard for them to acknowledge that an 11-year-old has done something that they had missed, but by thinking of you as a child prodigy, they can feel better about their oversight. Does that clarify it?"
"Yes, Grandma. Thank you. I understand and feel better."
"That's my girl. I told your mother what an exceptional young lady you are. She told me that you read 12th grade and college level books for enjoyment. Is that true?"
"I guess. I assume that she's referring to my classics. I like Shakespeare's works."
"Well, it explains your wonderful vocabulary. Not at all like that of an 11-year-old. But I've felt all along that you are 11 going on 25. Unfortunately, I don't think that I'll be able to use you as an undercover agent anymore."
"Why not?"
"After this trip, everybody in the company is going to know your name and your reputation. You heard Mr. Sloan say that he had heard a rumor about you. I'm sure that after you left the logging site yesterday, the rumors started to fly there as well. When you recommended a source for the equipment parts, which they didn't know about, it was more fuel for the rumor mill. By next week, you'll be the new 'company genius.' The good news is that now I can send you anywhere and you will have instant recognition and respect. We can use that as well as the other role. That was excellent, by the way, telling Mr. Sloan to call Black & Stevenson. You deserve the reputation that you're getting. You've made me very proud. You noticed that everybody called you by name when we left the headquarters building?"
"Yes. I was quite surprised. I don't feel that I am a genius though. I was only relaying information that I had read in one of the articles that you had given me."
"But that's why you're earning the reputation. You observe, analyze, and suggest answers, and alternatives, based on the knowledge that you have assimilated. Your analytical skill is what sets you apart from most people. When that's coupled with information, your remarkable memory, and your excellent powers of observation, it presents an image of 'genius.'"
We continued to talk for the rest of the trip. When we set down, it was just 7 o'clock. I invited Grandma to come in but she declined. She said that she had a lot of work to do tonight. We said goodnight to the pilots and they were gone in minutes. Charles stopped in front of the house and came around to open the door for me. As I stepped out he said, "Good night, Miss Darla. It's been a real pleasure traveling with you." He put my bags on the porch.
"Thank you, Charles. I've enjoyed your company also. Goodnight."
I waved as they left, then I carried my bags into the house. My sisters greeted me at the door and wanted to hear all about my trip. Judy heated up a plate of food for me as I went to see Mother and tell her that everything had gone fine. When I returned to the kitchen to eat, I told them that Mother and Auntie wanted to hear about my trip also, so after eating and cleaning up, we would go to Mother's bedroom and I would tell everybody at once.
We sat on the big bed in Mother's room and I recounted my entire trip. Mother was, of course, still in the hospital bed that Auntie had rented. Mother was a little alarmed about my acting like a little witch while I was with Mr. Sloan, even though she knew that I had a bodyguard with me at all times. I told them how his face changed from a smirk to a mottled mask during the inspection, and his remark as we parted. I told them about the dinner party, and about breakfast, where I had learned new omelet recipe secrets. When I told them about the executive business meeting, they were enthralled. They hadn't known about the forms that I had designed. When I related the way that Grandma unmasked my identity at the end, and the standing ovation that I had received, they laughed and clapped with glee. I said that I was surprised in the executive lunchroom when everybody treated me as an equal, where on the last trip I had been largely ignored. I explained about Mr. Sloan coming in to talk with Grandma, and his upset look when he came in. I related the conversation, word for word, as best as I could remember it. I told them how we had parted friends and that he had forgiven my awful behavior when he understood the reason for it. I also said that I had been so surprised when everybody that we met on the way out of the building called me by name.
When I had finished, Mother told me how very proud she was of me. Auntie and my sisters all agreed. They wanted to know how I knew so much about the lumber business. I said that I had picked it up from my last trip and the things that I had read. The articles that Grandma had given me were very good, and I had read five books that I had found in Auntie's library. The hours that I had spent talking with Grandma had filled in all the details that I had needed. When you put it all together, I had a passable knowledge of the business. Mother said, "I would say that you have acquired more than a 'passable' knowledge. When does your Grandmother think that you can take over the Presidency of the company?"
I looked at her and said, "She doesn't think that I can handle it fully until next year. Maybe right after my 12th birthday."
She got a shocked expression on her face and said, "My God, Darla Anne, I was kidding."
I smiled and said, "So am I, Mommy."
Everybody started laughing.
"Wait a minute," Auntie said. "I thought that she was going to help me run the family oil business. I need a good Vice-President."
I knew that Auntie was kidding me now, so I said, "I can alternate my weeks. One week for lumber, and one week for oil. And on weekends I can ride Emily."
We all giggled. They teased me a little more before Mother told us that it was time for bed. We kissed her, and Auntie, goodnight, and went to our bedrooms to prepare for bed. I performed my nightly rituals, and then unpacked my bags before getting into bed. Susan came in even before I turned off the light and we climbed into bed together. She told me how much she had missed me last night. We snuggled together and fell asleep in each other's arms.
Early the next morning, I called Karen. I told her that I was sorry that I hadn't called her in several days, but that I had been terribly busy and that I had taken a trip to Oregon with Grandma. She said that she knew because she had spoken with Susan on Wednesday after I had left. I asked her if she could come over today and she said that she would find a way. When she asked if she should invite Mike, I told her that today would just be for my sisters, and us. She would call when she got a ride, and a half hour later she called back to say that Mr. Wang was bringing her over now. When she arrived, I introduced her to my sisters and then took her upstairs to meet Mother. Miss Calabrese allowed us a few minutes and then shooed us out. She was getting Mother cleaned up because the doctor was coming this afternoon to remove the cast on Mother's left arm.
We all went out to the stable to saddle the horses. We went for a long ride returning at 1 o'clock. When we got back, we rubbed down the horses and then went up to the house to clean up and make lunch. We didn't have any of the pies or cakes left so after lunch we went to the big kitchen to do some baking. I wanted to try some different things but we didn't have the right ingredients so I made out a list of things to buy while shopping tomorrow, and we settled for the old favorites of apple pie, and devil's food and angel food cakes. Karen said that she had tried to make them at home this week but they had not turned out too well, so she wanted to watch me more closely. With her, and my sisters, at my elbow for the entire time, we duplicated last week's effort of 4 pies and 6 cakes. My sisters worked with us, but let me measure all the ingredients and then direct each phase through to completion, because, they said that their baked goods had never turned out as well as mine. When we were done, everything looked delicious, and would be put to the taste test after dinner. I had by now become quite proficient in making the piecrusts. I had always found that to be the most difficult part. We cleaned the kitchen and went out onto the porch to rock and relax.
As we sat on the porch, the doctor came out of the house, having just finished with Mother. We asked him how everything was and he told us that Mother was healing fine. He wanted her to be brought to the hospital in a couple of weeks for new X-rays. He had removed the cast on her arm and said that if her legs are healing as expected, those casts could be removed in about 4 weeks. Then she would be able to sit in a wheelchair. This was wonderful news because then she would have some mobility.
As soon as he had left we hurried upstairs to see Mother. Her arm was pale and shriveled looking but was functional again. Miss Calabrese, who was preparing to leave for the evening, said that color would return quickly, with a little sun, and use of the arm would rebuild its form very soon. She said that changes in the weather would probably result in pain in the arm for some time to come. This was normal. Mother hugged us for the first time since the accident. We talked until it was time to make supper, then we went to the kitchen. We were pleased with Mother's physical progress but we were a little concerned about her mental progress. The loss of Father, was still causing her periods of great depression. We were still feeling it as well and we knew that it would take time to heal that wound. Auntie was doing everything possible to help her through it. Perhaps when mother was more mobile, and therefore spending less time in bed reminiscing about her life with Father, she would improve.
On Saturday, we went clothes shopping after doing the grocery shopping. It was my sister's first time off the ranch since their arrival. Mother had asked Auntie to take us because she felt that we all needed a break. We had a wonderful time trying on clothes in several stores. When we were done, my sisters had each purchased several hoe-down outfits. I enjoyed trying on clothes but didn't buy anything. We returned home tired but happy.
On Sunday, we went for an all day ride after services. Karen had come over and joined us. It was the first time that we had ridden all six horses at the same time. We packed a lunch and ate it at the spot by the brook that we had begun to frequent regularly. When the day was over, I felt that it had been a perfect weekend.
The next few weeks flew by. We had settled into our routines and except for our memories, and occasional nightmares, of Father's death, and our concerns over Mother's health, life was wonderful. Mother had been taken to the hospital for x-rays, and the doctor told us he was pleased with her progress. The day had come for her casts to be removed. One leg would have a partial cast put back on, but she would be able to sit in a chair now and Auntie had rented a wheelchair for her use. We held a small 'coming out' party that night. It was Miss Calabrese's last day with us and we invited her to join us. We baked a six-layer cake for the party. Mother joined us in the kitchen for dinner and the celebration, and afterwards we took her down in the elevator to the theater to enjoy a movie. She told us how wonderful it was to sit up and be able to see something other than the four walls of her room.
From then on, she spent most of her days on the porch or by the corral. A therapist had begun to come daily, and had begun to get her up on crutches. Her arm had almost fully regained its normal appearance and the one healed leg was coming along too. After two more weeks, the remaining cast had been removed, and with the assistance of the crutches, Mother was getting around without the wheelchair now. My sisters had long ago selected their horses, so the remaining horse was Mother's and she told us that she would be riding within three months. I had started to receive subscriptions to several lumber trade magazines and biweekly newspapers, courtesy of Grandma. Grandma had never gone to Europe. Instead she spent a great deal of time with us. We had all come to think of her as family. Each week I baked, and always made sure that Grandma took something home with her for Charles. Auntie had spent a lot of time working recently. She had made several trips back to New Jersey to take care of matters there. The driver of the truck had been released from jail for time served, and his driver's license had been suspended for one year for murdering my father and almost crippling my mother. Drunk drivers were just not heavily penalized for their crimes. The lawsuits would take years to be settled according to Auntie. The insurance companies dragged them out for as long as possible, to delay paying anything out before they had to. The interest that they were collecting on the money they would have to pay induced them to procrastinate sending payment until all legal delays had been exhausted. The sale of the business and associated assets, provided ample resources to cover Mother's bills until the cases were settled. We had decided to rwemain in Texas, so Auntie had placed our house up for sale.
We made arrangements for Gina & Maria Marcoti to visit us for the month of August. Grandma's plane was taking some of her textile managers to a convention in New York City and would bring back Gina & Maria on the return trip. Karen and Mike had gone home to Tucson when their parents returned from their business trip. Karen and I had hugged and cried at our separation, but promised to keep in touch until we got together again.
On Wednesday evening, the day before Gina & Maria were scheduled to arrive, Mother asked me to come into her room. Auntie was there already and they asked me to sit down. Auntie said, "Darla Anne, I want you to do me a favor."
"Anything, Auntie."
"You know that I told you that I want you to live here for as long as you want to, right?"
"Yes, Auntie. And I've been very happy."
"Well, I still want you here. But for the next hour, we need to talk with David. Then you can come back. Is that all right?"
"Yes Auntie. Should I summon him now?"
"Yes, sweetheart."
I closed my eyes, concentrated, and visualized David arriving in a cab. I greeted him and we embraced. Then I watched as Darla Anne left in the cab. I went back inside and went into Mother's room and sat down. I opened my eyes and looked at Auntie.
"Darla Anne?" she asked.
"No, Auntie. I'm David."
"Welcome back, honey. Your mother and I needed to talk with you about a couple of things. You know everything that Darla Anne knows don't you?"
"Yes, Auntie."
"Good. As you know, your mother has given her blessing on your remaining as Darla Anne."
"I know, Auntie." I went over and hugged Mother. "I've been so happy Mommy. I love you. I love Auntie too, for allowing me to be Darla Anne."
"There are some things that we have to discuss," Mother said. "First of all, your school records in the name of David Alexander, not Darla Anne. And second, your birth records. School will be starting in less than two months. Do you want to resume your life as David or remain as Darla Anne?"
"If I am being given the choice, then I choose Darla Anne, without question or hesitation."
"We were sure that that would be your response, so your Aunt has something for you," Mother said.
Auntie handed me two envelopes, a regular one and a large manila one. I opened the regular one first. It was a birth certificate in the name of Darla Anne Drake, a female born May 4, 1955. I looked up and said, "How?"
Auntie told me that she had 'arranged' to have some records altered. A clerk at the hospital where I was born desperately needed money for their child's college tuition. A scholarship fund sufficient to pay the child's tuition through all four years at a state college was sufficient to make the alterations come about. The fact that Darla's initials were the same as David's made the task easier and virtually undetectable, because the order of the names in the official logs didn't have to be changed. Unless a chemical analysis was performed, a highly unlikely occurrence, no one would ever know about the alterations. The county records were also altered. This time by an underpaid clerk in the County Clerks Office who would now be able to afford the down payment on a small house.
I got up and went over to Auntie and hugged her and kissed her. Then I did the same to Mother. She told me to open the other envelope. When I did, I found my school transcripts, also in the name of Darla Anne Drake. I hugged and kissed Auntie and Mother again. Auntie told me that the school clerk was retiring before the new school year began, when a new clerk would be taking over. Mrs. McCloud would only receive a small pension for her many years of loyal service to the school. For a generous contribution to her retirement fund, all records at the school, that had borne the name David Alexander Drake had been destroyed and replaced with records reading Darla Anne Drake. Mrs. McCloud would be able to live out her remaining years in a little more comfort and security than would have been possible before. Any inquiry made to the school office would be to people that didn't know me, with Mrs. McCloud gone, and Sister Mary Frances having been transferred to a school in South Carolina. Auntie had had nothing to do with that of course, but it was convenient for us. The teachers would still remember me, naturally, but standard requests for information should never reach them.
"What I and these other people did was not legal," Auntie said. "If we are ever found out, there could be harsh penalties. Everyone involved knows that they must never talk about it or they risk imprisonment. We are not hurting anybody, just the opposite, so nobody feels any remorse. Some of this could have been performed legally, but the resultant publicity would have followed you for the rest of your life. Later on I will talk to your sisters so they know never to question it again. We have done this for you, because we love you, and know that it is what you want. From this day forward, there never was a David Alexander, only a Darla Anne. It only took a small fraction of the money from the sale of your family's business to accomplish it."
I was crying as I said, "Auntie, thank you for what you and Mother have done. I can't tell you how happy I am right now. I love you both so much. Don't worry about Darla Anne ever saying anything. That memory will remain only with David." I hugged and kissed them both again. They started to cry with me as we shared my joy. Then they had me call my sisters, and they told them what they had told me. When they were done, we all hugged and cried some more. Auntie told them that they should never refer to David again. Officially, there had never been any such person.
Auntie went on to tell us that Mother had enrolled us at the Hillock Academy for Young Ladies. There were closer schools, but Hillock had one of the best reputations in the state for quality education, and had more graduates continuing on top colleges than any other school in Texas. Unfortunately, it was an hour commute each day, each way. On the bright side, they taught grades 1 through 12, so we would be able to remain together even though Judy had graduated from elementary school. Our transcripts had already been forwarded, and we had all been accepted. Auntie told us that the school officials had accepted a letter from Doctor Clark, and I would be excused from all gym and athletic requirements so that no one would discover my little secret. This doubly pleased me because my limited athletic ability had always been a source of great embarrassment. My sisters and I were overjoyed that we would be able to stay together for our schooling, and would put up with the daily commute. Auntie said that it wouldn't be too bad. Instead of a regular school bus, we would be commuting in a small, comfortable van, with several other students.
She said that I should go to my room and summon Darla Anne to return. She took the envelopes from me to store them in her fireproof safe. I kissed everybody and went to my room. I sat on the bed and visualized Darla Anne returning in the cab. I embraced her as she got out, then David got into the cab and left. I waved, knowing that it might be a long time before I saw him again. I walked back into the house and went to my room.
It was getting late, so I performed my nightly rituals and prepared for bed. I had climbed into bed and had just finished reading one of my lumber trade magazines when Susan came in and climbed into bed with me. Although she had her own bed, she rarely used it. On weekends, we still always slept with Auntie. We talked for a while before drifting off to sleep.
After Auntie had left for work the next morning, and we had cared for the horses, we cleaned the house. Even though we had done it on Monday, we wanted it to sparkle for the first impression. We cleaned two bedrooms for Gina & Maria even though we suspected that they might wish to share one. At four o'clock, we had changed and were ready for their arrival when we heard the plane overhead. We quickly grabbed two of the pies that we had baked yesterday and hurried to the aircraft hanger ramp to greet them. After Gina & Maria had deplaned, we gave the two pies to Captain O'Toole for him and his co-pilot. He thanked us and we made small talk for a couple of minutes before they sealed the plane and took off.
We all hugged and kissed on the ramp before leaving for the house. Gina & Maria were in a mild state of shock. They said that we had never told them that we had our own airport in the 'back yard.' We laughed and I told them that they hadn't seen anything yet. As we rounded the corner of the hanger and they saw the house, they just stopped and stared at it.
"That's the house?" Gina said. "We thought it was a hotel when we flew over it."
We walked inside and gave them the tour. Mother came down in the elevator and met us in the foyer. Gina & Maria ran over and hugged her. The last time they had seen one another, Mother was still bed-ridden. Now she was walking on her own with the assistance of the crutches. We all went upstairs so that they could get settled. They chose to stay in separate bedrooms as they wanted to experience a little privacy. It was something that they never had in their small home in New Jersey. As they unpacked, my sisters and I went to the kitchen to prepare supper, while Mother stayed behind to talk with them. They came in and sat down as we worked. We talked non-stop until supper was ready. Auntie had come home from work, and we all sat down for dinner. After our meal was over and the cleanup was complete, we went to care for the horses, while Auntie and Mother stayed behind to talk. Gina & Maria came along to watch. Then we went back up to the house to clean up and continue the tour. We showed them the whole upstairs, and finished up in my bedroom. They had been astounded with the house, but were almost speechless when they saw Auntie's and my bedrooms. We spent a lot of time going through my clothes room. Unfortunately, most of my clothes would not fit either of them.
Gina came over to me and standing in front of me said, "Darla, you've grown a lot since I last saw you. You're about an inch taller, and your figure has really developed. Is that a corset that you're wearing?"
"Yes, I been wearing one now for a couple of months. Susan has been wearing one on and off for the last few weeks, but you have to wear it continuously in order for it to really shape you."
I showed them my other corsets. They both wanted to try one so I put Auntie's old corset on Gina. Her mother had forbid Karen to wear it and she had returned it before she left. I tightened it down a couple of inches and tied it off for her to get used to it. Then I put one on Maria and tightened her down about two inches. I went back to Gina and reduced her another inch. She was having difficulty breathing, so I showed her how to breathe properly, and l left her to work on it while I tightened Maria down another inch. We went to sit on my bed while the Marcoti sisters worked on their breathing. When they felt comfortable enough, Gina & Maria sat down on the edge of my bed. Because of the corsets, they sat very erect. After an hour, Gina & Maria both said that they were tired and felt that they should go to bed. I released them from the corsets and they stretched, scratched and filled their lungs with air.
"That's torture," Gina said. I don't know how you do it all the time."
"You get used to it. I feel naked without it now. And my waist is 20 inches without the corset."
"Well maybe I'll try it again tomorrow. Right now I just want to get some sleep. It's midnight in New Jersey."
We all kissed goodnight, and they left for their bedrooms. We had all decided not to mention our communal bathing. That would remain strictly a family activity. Mother joined us now that she was able. She had, at first, been very shocked when she had learned about it a couple of weeks ago. We had kept it from her until she was out of her casts. But now, she said that it was the highlight of her day. We all agreed.
Judy and Mary left for their bedrooms. They always slept in the same bed even though they maintained their separate bedrooms. Susan had moved most of her things into mine. My clothes room was still largely empty, even with her clothes in there. Susan and I performed our nightly rituals and climbed into bed. After talking for a short time, we drifted off to sleep.
After breakfast the next day, we cleaned the stable, then went on a short, one-hour ride. We knew that Gina & Maria would be sore since it was their first ride. We spent the rest of the day talking and relaxing. When Gina & Maria went to take a nap, we each went to handle some personal activity. I went to read a biweekly, lumber business, trade newspaper called 'Log Views,' that had just arrived. As I was reading, I happened across an article about Grandma's company. I suddenly jumped up and ran to mother's room to show her what I had read. With trembling hands I gave her the article and pointed out the article, which had caused my distress.
She read the article aloud. 'The acquisition of Trumbell Lumber Company by Ameri-Moore Lumber Company is heralded as one of the hottest deals of this year. Ameri-Moore gains valuable new forest reserves with tens of thousands of acres of old growth trees, both in North America and South America. Spokesmen at both companies have declined comment on the deal at this time. But this reporter has learned, through unnamed sources within Ameri-Moore, that a newcomer to Ameri-Moore who was seen having dinner with Trumbell Lumber Company principles several weeks ago brokered the deal. The newcomer is Darla Anne Drake, granddaughter to owner Mabel Moore. Miss Drake has been causing ripples throughout the company with sweeping revisions, and promotions of personnel into key positions. One of her most recent promotions was of Peter Sloan to Supervisor of West Coast Logging Operations. Mr. Sloan confirmed that Miss Drake was in fact responsible for both his promotion, and several major changes within the company, but declined further comment, referring us to the company's public relations officer. James Halle, president of Halle Home Improvement Centers, has confirmed that he and two of his top aides recently had dinner with Miss Drake, and they were most impressed with her. Attempts to contact Miss Drake have, so far, been unsuccessful. Her private jet was last seen heading south. It has been speculated that she is personally inspecting the new forest acquisitions in South America. (continued on page 26).' 'Miss Drake's emergence in our industry is made all the more remarkable because of her age. It has been confirmed that she is only 11 years old. The picture below was taken at Bella Italiano in Portland, and shows Miss Drake in a discussion with Trumbell Lumber Company executives. Although Ameri-Moore has refused to allow us to interview Miss Drake at this time, this reporter promises to continue his investigation and will present a follow-up next month.' Mother had been giggling as she read the article. The picture showed me talking to Terrance Trumbell, and two other men, at the restaurant where Grandma and I had eaten, the last time that we had traveled to Portland. I had been quoting some memorized facts at Grandma's request, and was gesturing with my hands at the time the photo was snapped. The men were obviously paying attention to what I was saying, because they were looking at me intently, and their mouths were closed. Grandma did not appear in the photo.
When mother was finished reading, she threw her head back and laughed. I was upset, and she was amused. I asked her why she was laughing. She said that this was a prime example of the news industry. They gather a few facts, and then construct a whole story around them.
"But what will people think when they read this? I didn't broker any deal with Trumbell Lumber Company. They're making me look foolish. The people responsible for the deal will think that I am stealing their credit."
"Sweetheart, the people who made the deal will clarify the issue at the appropriate time. Don't be upset. This will all blow over in a few days."
"But that reporter says that he is going to continue to investigate me."
"Don't worry, honey. Your grandmother will take care of it, I'm sure. In the meantime, I think that it's time to start a scrapbook for you." She took scissors from her nightstand drawer and cut out the two pages, then gave me back the magazine. "I can't wait to show this to your aunt. She'll get as big a charge out of it as I do."
After dinner that night, Mother read the article for the rest of the family. The situation turned a little more serious the next evening. When Auntie came in she gave Mother some mail and we sat down to have dinner. After dinner, Mother opened her mail and then stood up and said, "Kathy, can I see you for a minute, please." They went to mother's room, and after about a half-hour, Auntie called me to come in as we finished cleaning the kitchen. My sisters, Gina, and Maria went to care for the horses while I went to see what Mother and Auntie wanted.
Mother said, "Honey, I just received a letter from the Hillock Academy.
Let me read it to you. 'Dear Mrs. Drake, the admissions board has confirmed the acceptance of your three daughters, Judy, Mary, and Susan into grades 9, 8, and 7 respectively. New information, brought to the attention of the board, has caused them to hold up acceptance of your daughter, Darla Anne, into Grade 6. We would like you have her ready at 8 AM on Tuesday, August 9th. A car will pick her up, as well as a chaperone should you wish to send one. Sincerely Mrs. Milner, School Administrator.' I don't understand what information they could be referring to. Do you Kathy?"
"No, unless that reporter has created some phony story. I don't believe that anything from New Jersey has been uncovered."
"What about New Jersey, Auntie?" I asked.
She looked at me for a second, then said, "I was referring to your brother's trips. But we don't want to talk about that, or him. Right?"
"Yes, Auntie, I know never to talk about him or acknowledge his existence outside of the family."
"Good girl. Well, I guess that we'll just have to play it by ear. We'll know in 4 days. Do you feel up to going Liz?"
"You couldn't keep me away. I want to be there to face these people if someone has been spreading lies about my little girl. None of my daughters will attend if they refuse Darla Anne a place."
I got up and went to Mother and hugged her. "If they don't want me, I can always find another school, Mommy. I don't want you to anger them and harm my sisters' chances for the best education available."
"Darla Anne, you're so wonderful. You make me ashamed for my thoughts of pulling your sisters out if they refuse you. Sometimes, I think that you should be the parent." She smiled at me and I knew that she was ribbing me.
"Oh. Mommy, stop teasing me."
We all laughed and I went to my bedroom. It had become the unofficial meeting room because it was so large. When my sisters came in they asked what was up and I told them what I knew. Susan said, "If Darla Anne is not accepted, then I won't go there." Judy and Mary quickly agreed.
"You mustn't feel like that. It's the best school around and you must go there now that you've been accepted. You can't pass up the opportunity for a wonderful education. I'll find a school that will take me."
"Well, we will make that decision after Tuesday when we have found out why they haven't accepted you," Judy said. "You've had straight A's on all of your report cards since Kindergarten. You deserve to be accepted, more than us. Let's forget about it until next week."
We went downstairs to watch TV. I put on an interested look but in the back of my mind I was wondering why the school hadn't accepted me. I had always worked hard in school. Since our family was not wealthy, Father had always told me to get good grades in the hope that I would be able to get some scholarship assistance. I would be the fourth to enter college within a four-year period and my parents knew that money would be scarce by the time that I was ready. I had often been bored in class at St. James, but I had always worked hard to keep my concentration level high, and my attention on the subject matter being taught. My teachers had always told me what an excellent student I was, so why didn't Hillock want me?
(continued in Part 14)
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