RANSVESTIA

After the first weekend spent dressed Barbara's self confidence grew to the point where she dressed at home and drove to Sue's.

Finally, the day arrived. Luckily each girl was given her own dressing room, so that part of Barbara's problem was solved.

The battle between Barbara and Diane see-sawed, Diane topping Barbara in the talent division, Barbara taking the swim suit competi- tion. Diane came in first in the evening gown part of the show. Both ended up in the semi finalists, something that scared Barbara. “What if I take first," she thought. I want to beat Diane, but all those repor- ters..."

The announcer was speaking.

"Fourth runner-up- Miss Marilyn Buckly."

"We are still in the running," she thought, as the girl took her place on the platform, looking none too pleased though her smile never faltered.

"Third runner up, Miss Alicia King."

"Oh, please, God, Diane next and me after that . . . " Barbara prayed silently.

"Second runner-up, Miss Diane Knox."

"Thank heavens," Barbara relaxed just a little.

"Second runner-up, and attendant to the queen, Miss Joan Bloom- field."

"Oh no! All those reporters, all that publicity ... Hey, kid, cool it. You were good enough to pass the judges. Those reporters will be a snap- I hope!"

“And now, Ladies and Gentlemen, the moment you have been wait- ing for," the voice slowly rising in volume, "The Queen of our contest, the pick of the crop, Miss Barbara Knox!"

Flash bulbs and microphones thrust in her face, questions asked hurriedly, and answered the same way, somehow without revealing her secret. Crowds of people pushing to get a better look at her . . .

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