MEMORIES **

Reading of Susanna's project, The Chevalier d'Eon, re- calls a little coterie of close friends of mine who were accustomed to gather at my apartment in New York City in the early 30's. There were 7 in the group. Five were mar- ried and lived in the suburbs. We met on Wed. evenings.

Although not a large apartment, there were two bed- rooms, one of which was used exclusively for storing the clothing of our "other" selves. Each guest arrived at a different time so there was no confusion in preparing for the evening. To keep our clothing cleaned and pressed, and to tidy up the apartment for myself, I employed a pretty light-skinned colored girl, who was to be trusted, receiv- ing sufficient recompense to assure this. When we met, she remained to assist the girls in dressing and putting on their makeup, at which she was very clever. She also coiffured our wigs for us as needed. The "boudoir" as it was called, was appointed in a most feminine fashion.

We spent many delightful evenings, chatting about the latest fashions, the theater etc. If one discovered a shop where the owner was sympathetic to us, it would be revealed. I knew a buyer in one of the stores who would give me a buzz when something which she thought would be becoming arrived. The smaller shops were more fun though as there one could have a fitting for one's purchases.

If one of us was wearing a new frock or lingerie, she would be "persuaded" to model it for the rest while we all "OH'd" and "Ah'd" over the garment. I daresay our great- est delight was window shopping along the avenue; not as a group, but in 2's or 3's. We always felt more secure this way and with less chance of attracting attention.

During those few hours together we could live the lives society denied us. I wonder if any other readers have had similar little groups and will in turn tell us about them.

Nancy, N.H.