Gentleman Caller

Mother has simply consumed herself with the idea of a gentleman caller! She even had the nerve to ask me if anyone at the warehouse would be suitable for Laura! I told her that I would attempt to find someone just to get her off my case! I have a friend at the warehouse, Jim O'Connor who I found somewhat suitable. I asked him to dinner, but decided not to tell him of the true intentions. Mother was thrilled and starting asking dozens of questions. She made many preparations and finally the night came. Mother was giddy, which was partially embarrassing. Dinner went well, except for when Laura became ill. After dinner, mother asked me to help with the dishes while Jim and Laura talked. They seemed to be having a good time, but after Jim left mother threw a fit. I quickly discovered that Jim was engaged. This was new information to me. Mother accused me of knowing all along! I knew no such thing! Mother told me to go to the movies, but I didn't just go there. I went away, forever, just as Father did. I traveled all over going to bars and movies! I always felt terrible for leaving Laura and thought of her often though.

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Continental Shoemakers

I slave every day of my life away at Continental Shoemakers for only $65 a month! Mother claims that I am fond of it! She has no idea! She is oblivious to the hatred I feel for that place! My methods of escape are writing poetry, movies, and reading. Mother found a copy of a D. H. Lawrence book and returned it! She calls it filth, but what does she know? She claims that my nights out to go to the movies frequently are worthless. Mother doesn't even believe I go to the movies, she must think I'm some kind of criminal! I need adventure in my life! I have never once been able to travel or be free. The movies are my escape. The images of far off lands, heightened criminals, and fantasy excite me! After I snake into bed after a late night at the cinema, she calls, "Rise and shine!" for me to rise every morning terribly early. She doesn't understand what I put up with for the sake of Laura. I sometimes imagine being like Father, and leaving as quickly as I can.

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The Iron Grip of Mother

I cannot do one thing right according to that terrible woman. After long days of work at the warehouse I come home to her criticizing my every move! She says I eat incorrectly, I smoke too much, and am utterly selfish. Let me ask you this mother, if I were such a selfish person would I still be here to use my hard earned pay to support you and Laura! All she spouts about these days are gentlemen caller's, which we have yet to see. If I hear her dreaded story of when she was a young lady one more time, I fear that I might explode. I keep telling myself that this won't last much longer, but can I bear to leave Laura behind?

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