I knew I wouldn't hear from them for a while, that only time could ever bring about a rapprochement, but even so I waited hopelessly all during the fall and winter and spring. I wrote them letters, weekly, long letters, explanations, observations, advice... love letters to my daughters... but I never heard back.
~~~~~
"They're not staying out here this summer professor, only going to be here for the fourth of July," Mrs. Kramer told me as she counted out the change for my groceries on a late June day the next year.
"Who's that Ellen?" I asked, fearing the answer I knew was coming.
"Your neighbors, those nice Butler girls."
"Oh, how come?" I managed to reply.
"Studies or something or other. That's what Old John said to Millie anyway. Apparently the Missus will be here any day though,"
