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Show Nettie, Page 82 The sun was already warm as Papa loaded Nettie's small bundle of belongings into the back of the wagon. He introduced the driver, an older man around Papa's age, by the name of Wilbur Neilson. He doffed his hat at Mama and Nettie and waited patiently for the goodbyes to be said. No one seemed to want to make the first move, but finally Nettie threw herself into Papa's arms and hugged him mightily. He returned the fierce embrace with one of his own and spoke gruffly to cover the tears in his voice. "I know you'll be a credit to your family and the church. I want you to always remember you have a family to come to if you need us," Papa looked into Nettie's eyes from his own deep-set ones. "I will, Papa, I will. I love you, Papa," Nettie tried to put her deep feelings into words and realized for the first time how inadequate words are at times. Another great hug from Papa and he pressed $5.00 into her hand, then turned her loose to Mama. "Jeannette, you've been a good daughter. Now you be a good worker for the Colonel," Mama always found it difficult to express her love in words, but Nettie felt her love in the gentle touches as Mama straightened a wrinkle here and a fold there, pushed back a stray red curl and flicked away imaginary pieces of lint. 'I'll remember, Mama. Thank you for everything," Nettie's voice quavered. "Write when you are settled. I know the postmaster here personally," Papa joked feebly. |
