::::::perfectly poised polish::::::

"...i went and put on my white gloves and my very frivolous hat. i took a long look in the mirror and hesitated. you know how we do, girls, when we think no one is looking! i thought to myself, "old girl, you're not so bad!"
i drove downtown...it was noon and very crowded. i stood on the corner waiting for the light to change to green. it changed and i stepped down off the curb. somehow my ankle turned and in a flash as i sprawled out in the middle of the street.
now, i want to back up and tell you that i know a very austere and sophisticated man, with a deep voice, who makes me feel like i have two heads, or a run in my hose, or chipped fingernail polish. i am invariably seated by him at dinner parties etc., etc. now, if there was anyone in the world that i didnt want to see right then, and especially in that position, it was him! but there he was, standing right behind me, drawling: "mrs. caldwell, are you hurt?"
"oh, no, of course not!" i replied. but i did hope i was bleeding, because then it might have been worth it. as i had landed on all fours, i had hurled my purse and all its contents out into the middle of the street and my beautiful flowered hat jarred over into my face. i nearly died! and my gloves were ruined for i had "slud" them on the dirty pavement.
then there he was, the perfect picture of modern-day man of distinction, on his knees in the middle of the street, helping me. people in the passing cars were laughing. what could i do? i had runs in my hose, my hat was out of place and filthy gloves. i just scooted back and sat down on the curb [but i kept my knees together like a lady should!]..."


(6/28/2004 5:46 PM - )