FICTION

PETER'S PROBLEM

UNKNOWN

Mrs. Cooper looked at her son with a mixture of regret and disgust -the latter emotion predominating. After all, it might be expected— though never hoped for, that one's child might well run into a snag with the authorities at one time or another during the stormy process of growing up. Nevertheless, it was rather humiliating to have to stand in court and listen while the judge recited the various charges (vandalism and disorderly conduct; he had been cleared of the stolen car charge when it was pointed out that he had not actually gotten into the car when the rest of the gang had gone joy riding.).

The problem was, Peter did not even seem remorseful about it, but had rather stood there sullenly while the judge had pronounced the rather lenient sentence of probation to his parents, with the stipulation that continued attendance at school and an improvement in his scho- lastic averages be maintained. Peter had merely shrugged, a distinctly recognizable sneer on his fourteen year old face. With that, the judge lost his temper; "Young man! It is a shame that the courts are no longer permitted to sentence juveniles to floggings, for it is obvious to the court that you have not the slightest idea of decency or disci- pline. Recognizing the fact that your parents are in part responsible for this lack in your upbringing, I'm nevertheless further stipulating that if you are seen on the streets-anywhere after six p.m., without either of your parents, you will immediately be sent to the state re- formatory." The gavel descended with a resounding smack.

That evening, the Coopers tried to talk to their son, but despite their pleading with him in the name of all that is virtuous, it became obvi- ous that he was paying no mind to them. Eventually, he slouched up- stairs and began to play the radio very loudly. Mr. and Mrs. Cooper

30