Patience

LOVE STORY

 

My parents didn't believe me, wanted to wash my mouth out with soap when I told them I was in love. Being only ten years old when I said that, I can now understand why they were off the wall. Even though I now laugh when I conjure up their faces, their shock is etched in my memory. My Dad put on such a gruff face, folded his arms on his chest and bellowed, 'And who, My Lady, do you want to marry, little Pinky Walman or skinny Bobby Jackman?' Oooh, I was angry, stood up and imitated him. I put my head on my flat chest, folded my arms and declared, 'Robert Taylor, that's who. I love him.'

 

That was my cue to run upstairs to get something and bring it to my parents. I had worked hard to make my letter to Robert Taylor look grown up and thought it was beautiful. 'Read this Daddy, then please, please give me a three cent stamp so I can mail it.' 'But you don't have his right address on the envelope, Kathlene and I'm not wasting a  stamp on this nonsense.' 'Damn you, Daddy!' I hollered at him and was about to be smacked across my mouth, spoke up just in time 'Robert's address is fine. I asked the mailman if Mr. Robert Taylor MGM Studios, Lost Angeles, Califorrnnia would be okay. He told me it was fine but I should fix my spelling. Daddy gave me a new envelope and asked me to let him read the letter. This time I saw a little smile on his face and on my Mama's too. But, I told them it was private.
'I'll tell you if you give me ten cents to see Robert's new movie  Saturday. It's his new one 'Waterloo Bridge'.

 

'Did you know, Mama, that Robert Taylor was voted on to have the most perfect profile in the world? I happen to think his dark hair and eyebrows are handsome. And I know his hair comes to a point on his forehead and is called a Widow's Peak but don't know why. All I know is I think he is gorgeous and strong. And I love him!'

 

Every day for weeks and weeks that seemed like years I waited for an answer from Robert and then, at last, a light gray envelope with my name on it was in our mail box. I almost exploded with excitement. In my room, I opened it with great care, took it near the window so I could see it better.

 

'Dear Kathlene,

 

I am so sorry it took a long time to answer your beautiful letter but I have been working hard on a new movie with Kathryn Hepburn , talking on the radio, making personal appearances.

 

Your love makes my heart light up with joy, but dear young Kathlene, I am married. I am sending you two new autographed, framed pictures of me. One will be how I really look and one will be of me playing Robin Hood. Be sure to read  about Robin Hood and while you are reading, picture me in those funny pants and hat.

 

I wish you well, my young friend. Feel the wind outside your front door. I am blowing you a kiss that may take time to get to you across our entire United States, but will arrive sooner or later.

 

Fondly,
Robert Taylor

 

I waited but no longer want to marry Robert. Pinky Walman suits me fine.