Transvestia

well-lighted show window caught his eye- a ladies' fashion shop. The tastefully dressed mannequins in the window were extraordinarily well-posed. As carefully as a judge at a beauty contest, Henry compared their various charms. They seemed to strut and parade before him as though they were alive. Quite without volition, an in- sidious thought formed... "Why these certainly beautiful ladies, so obviously cultured persons. The small price placards and artificial scenery of the background faded from his mind's eye. He was especially taken by one mannequin that stood slightly apart from the others. "She" was faultlessly groomed in a beige wool suit with a warm brown collar. In one outstretched hand were draped a pair of gloves, from the other hung a largish walnut brown handbag, cleverly opened to display a brilliant rust-hued kerchief. From her stance, it seemed as though she were inviting him to come closer. He did so, and noticed that this particular mannequin was most lady-like, with soft, natural-looking skin and beauti- fully coiffed hair-so unlike the lacquered look of the others. As he stared, a strange alchemy took place--the mannequin seemed to, come alive and take on a human personality! Flushing slightly from' excitement, Henry imagined himself being introduced to this charming crea- ture--asking her to share his evening--and receiving a welcome response. The vision of a gala evening with 'her' brought about an imagined conversation. "I'm delighted to know you... Miss.. "Grace Lee", she smiled back. "Gracie - - may I call you Gracie?" He asked. "Why, of course, Henry, we are old friends, are we not?" Was her warm reply. Henry's chest swelled visibly and he was emboldened enough to say "Would you care to go for a stroll with me? The evening is so grand...." She readily assented, and seemed to step toward him and take his arm. (His conscience disturbed him not-- why even Ellen couldn't complain if he took this young lady out!)

With Gracie" snuggled close to him, Henry felt a heady elation. Why he felt ten feet tall and twenty years younger! As they walked slowly along, they conversed antimatedly about mutual interests; stopping now and then to comment on the wares shown in the store windows. Henry could sense, out of the corner of his eye, that passers-by were admiring this handsome man and the ever so beautiful lady at his side. This was tremendously satisfying to his ego! Oh, there was a world of things to