The relation between a transvestite and his wife is a very delicate and very frequently discussed question in the organization. Annette tells. rather movingly about the reactions of her wife, when she (Annnette) was forced to tell her.

"But why on earth have you never told all this to me before," she said, and embraced me for a long time. Now she helps me with my work for the organization.

At the Swedish conference many of the transvestites had their wives with them.

A transvestite can never be sure whether people look at him because he is pretty or because it is possible for them to see the "brother" show through. It is only a small elite who dare go out in public and then not often two together as that would be too conspicuous.

Annette has a great understanding for the transvesites who are sitting around the country and who dare not contact the organization. She wants to tell them that only two members of the committee, she and another one in Southern Sweden, know the real names and addresses, and that the press or photographers are not allowed in to the meetings (this story is an exception). Every member uses a feminine cover name during the meetings and that she is first passed into the organization through a so- called "big sister" before she is confronted with more transvestites. Annette says that getting into the woman's role gives her much relaxa- tion, and all the other transvestites at the table agree.

I wonder why that is so since society and the men make just as bur- densome demands on the women today as on men. Annette explains that since a transvestite is a man who normally finds an outlet for his need of activity by means of his work, the role of the woman is not so de- manding, but he probably can only be comfortable in that role for a few days. Should he be able to live a long while as a woman, Annette says the role would become less appealing. Even if you blush with pride if someone whistles at you or helds a door open for you.

At the Swedish hotel behind the hedge of fir by the small lake there is breakfast on the last day. Many have overslept because they were up talking until morning. Others emerge as they are without makeup and in grey lounge suits. I am overwhelmed by affection for these small grey men with all their dreams in them. You would understand them better

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