RANSVESTIA

The Beauty Shop was just a little ways down the block from the taxi stand where the driver had let me off. I began walking the short distance and wondered if Jack Mansard had already arrived and opened the shop. To my relief I found that I was the first one to arrive. Quickly opening the door with the key Denise had given me I stepped inside and ob- served the place of my new employment. Approaching the receptionists desk I found it in a state of disarray and confusion. Papers were strewn all over the top and there seemed to be little if any system or arrange- ment present. Boy, what a mess, I thought, as I continued to look around, I wondered how Jack could possibly get a customer to return after once experiencing the messy conditions prevalent throughout the shop. I was so absorbed inspecting the condition of the shop that I failed to notice the door open and Jack arrive.

"Well, Good Morning! I see my partner has finally decided to break down and send you into work. Well we can sure use you, we have been very busy and Marie and myself just haven't been able to do it all our- selves. I imagine that Denise has told you what your duties will be. If not, I will. They will consist mostly of setting up appointments and handling customer relations. You will also be expected to handle the bookkeeping under MY supervision and do any other associated tasks I may have for you." This last statement I noted was made with a long frank appraisal of my physical assets. The look on Jack's face left little doubt in my mind that I would be having problems with him in the future.

"Denise did fill me in on most of what I will be doing Jack, but I would appreciate it if you would sort of give me a quick instruction on how the shop is run. I have never done receptionist work before and so it is new to me.” Jack agreed and motioned for me to come over to the desk and sit down which I did. Laying a big and very masculine hand on my shoulder Jack started to brief me on the functions of the desk which was to be mine for as long as I stayed on the job. The instruction period was brief as it was only 15-20 minutes before the first customer came into the shop. I greeted the young lady gracefully and then in- quired as to her appointment. I checked the appointment book and sent her to the correct booth for her treatment.

The shop quickly became very busy and the morning passed almost before I knew what had happened. Once again I was shocked when a svelte blond came walking out from behind the alcoves and said she would relieve me for lunch. I couldn't remember sending her to the back

20