Scene 92

Scene Ninety-two...Engineering
Time: After church, Sunday, February 9, 1947
Place: Robertson's Dining room
Storyteller: Janet


"Lucy, stop begging. Lois, am I allowed to have another piece of chicken?" Dad is hopeful.

"Help yourself, dear."

Paul invited Doris to Sunday dinner because Dad always acts better when she's around.

"Doris, I was certainly surprised when you quit nursing and returned to U.M. full time. The hospital will never be able to replace you."

"She works in the marine biology lab," says Paul.

"It's about time they expanded that department. After all, we have an ocean here," Dad replies.

"Yes, and the school of engineering opens soon." Doris actually had the nerve to say the word 'engineering' to Dad.

"And I'll transfer to that department in June," Paul says casually.

Mom scurries to the kitchen and stays there.

"Damn good idea." Dad shocks everybody.

"Pardon me?" asks Paul.

"Engineering...damn good idea...you've always had a knack for mechanical gadgets. You'll graduate in their first class. Of course your mother and I will come back for your graduation ceremony."

I could have fainted. Doris went to the powder room.

"Son, tell me you won't forget that extraordinary lady on Valentine's Day. It's this Friday, in case you haven't noticed all those fancy hearts in store windows."

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