-35-
--
Priory walked halfway with me.
I wouldn't let him get on the Rocket Port monorail with me.
I just shook his hand, tight, and said,
"It was fun today, Ralph".
"Yeah. Well, see you next Saturday, huh, Chris?"
"I wish I could say yes".
"Say yes anyway. Next Saturday the woods, the gang, the rockets, and Old Man
Wickard and his trusty para-gun".
We laughed.
"Sure. Next Saturday, early. Take care of our mother, will you, Priory?"
"That's a silly question, you nut" he said.
"It is, isn't it?"
He swallowed.
"Chris".
"Yeah?"
"I'll be waiting. Just like you waited and don't have to wait any more. I'll wait".
"Maybe it won't be long, Priory. I hope not".