underwear

feminine underwear at that. Within a space of five seconds or less, I decided that I would do best to do as I had been doing; to tell the bald truth with unconcern. People often refused to believe that which they would be only too glad to refute on the basis of a faint hint.

"Dear Beth. In three days time I am going away from here. I am going to commence living as a woman for an indefinite period of time. I have, as you can see, much to learn. I would therefore appreciate any hints and helps you might be gracious enough to give me."

At that, she moved directly into the room, closing the door behind her. A furrow appeared between her eyes. "You know, I actually think you mean that. I wonder if you know what you're getting yourself into?" I pointed at the great pile of clothing. "If you mean this—no and I'm likely to garrote myself with any part of it by accident."

I didn't intend it as a joke, but she took it as such and laughed again. A low, throaty laugh that was with her an almost breathless way of speaking. I was fascinated by it! — and I even began to wonder -- but of course, this was ridiculous; I had managed to live pretty much without girls until this time. What an incongruous time to become interested

in one (sic)!

when one is seeking lessons in how to become one himself

"Well then strictly as a public service and to keep you from strangling yourself, I'll show you how to put them on properly; you may find, if you're really serious, that learning to wear them is some- thing else again.”

"I assure you that I'm completely dedicated to the entire proposition." I told her.

"I think you are." she replied with amazement.

One-half hour later, she zipped up the back of one of the dresses and led me, teetering slightly over to the mirror on the bureau. She had made several trenchant remarks and suggestions that made an obvious difference; the padding she had suggested and improvised of several pairs of stockings was probably the most outstanding feature but the touch of an expert had been obvious.

"You know I think I just might be able to do it after all!" I ex- claimed with an edge of excitement creeping into my voice.

14