RANSVESTIA

"Mrs. Mallett," the young man looked at her calmly. Such a pleasant voice, she thought. "My professional name is Peggy Walker."

Confusion abounded on Mrs. Mallett's face. What was this young man saying? His professional name but that would mean that this man was Peggy Walker. As the thought struck home, she sat down heavily, astonishment and incredulity on her face.

"It's true, mother," Erica sat beside her quickly. "I'm afraid that I haven't told you the whole truth about Peggy and me, that is, about Dave and me." She glanced up anxiously at the young man, who still stood impassively watching the older woman. "I discovered, quite by accident, that Peggy was really a man at that fashion show you dragged me to. Dave wouldn't stand for me lieing to you any- more about him. If I marry him, and I want to very much, Dave in- sisted that I let you know that he is a transvestite."

Mrs. Mallett's hand was over her heart. "Whatever is that?" she asked. It was as if some kind of monster had come creeping into her house.

"I like to dress in women's clothing," said Dave. "I've been good enough at it that I've been able to earn my living as a woman."

"But you're not dressed that way now," Mrs. Mallett was even more confused.

Dave smiled. "No," his voice was patient and friendly. "I am a man, and I intend to stay one. Sometimes, though," his face clouded slightly, "I do like to dress up." He looked at Erica. "It's become almost a full time occupation lately, but likely that will wear off."

"Never," murmured Erica determinedly.

"If I marry Erica," the blue eyes turned fully toward Mrs. Mallett, "you'll have to accept me for what I am. I don't wish to deceive any- one into thinking I'm something I'm not. I'm a man. I'm a transves- tite." His jaw was set firmly as he finished. Erica stood, took his hand, and leaned against him.

"If it's all right with you, Mother," she said, "I'd like to ask Peggy to join us now."

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