Transvestia

standing, handicapped woman. Something I couldn't put my young finger on, knowing nothing of such subjects as sex psychology, Looking back now, in the light of ac- quired knowledge, written and experienced, I realize she was a poor, love-hungry soul who didn't recognize her own complex. She needed someone who really cared for her, as I, in my adolescent way adored her. I believe, now, that at first Grace thought it kind of 'cute', even amusing. So....a relationship was formed under her guidance for our mutual satisfaction. I her Cedipus... she my Jocasta.. A 'stepchild'.

Her husband, Harry, a bookkeeper traveled all over the middle-west for an association set up with two part- ners to handle the books of small firms who didn't require the full time services of a bookkeeper. I doubt if Harry had ever truly loved Grace, but he liked her, and she did provide him with a home to return to every week or two after a tour of duty. They were childless because of severe internal injuries Grace suffered at the time she lost her leg. So....I now became her baby-chick, pin feathers and all. Grace was well taken care of and ap- parently....content.

Having just moved north from Indiana she knew no one in town, aside from an 'over-the-fence' acquaintance with Mrs. McG next door. One morning as we sat drinking a cup of coffee Grace laughingly remarked; "You know, I believe Mrs. Mac thinks I'm downright indecent, even immoral to run around on one leg. She got real nosey about 'Zelda' and stated flatly that 'it would look more wholesome if I wore my artificial limb'. "Honestly! I ask you--- a one-legged Lorelet? Oh!!! Some people! I nearly offered her the loan of 'Zelda' but thought better of it.

That was Grace, unaffected and, by most standards unhandicapped by what would drive most women to a rocking chair or wheel chair. This, of course, was one of the reasons I admired her. But the principle one was her pretty, chic clothes, statuesque body and her beauti- ful footwear. As she put it logically, "I received $16,000 for fifteen pounds of leg and other injuries so I pamper my only foot with smart, comfortable shoes, I change shoes three times a day as the doctor advised, for better foot health". Grace had nineteen left shoes and laced

52