There is a certain type of visitor whose approach
to the house is always viewed with apprehension by the children of the family.
I well remember an “aunt” whose image will always spring to my mind when the
words “unwelcome visitors” are spoken. She is the prototype of bugbears!
Of course, she was not really an aunt. She had some
connection with my mother in her, ‘south, and felt it her duty to keep an eye
on her and offer advice All out the upbringing of her family. She was a spinster
herself, having been far too formidable all her life to attract a husband, but
that did not deter her from knowing more about how to bring up children the an
any mother of a large family!
She used to drive up to the house in a hired
Victoria or “harry,” and always seemed I .o choose the leanest horse and the
most disreputable carriage on the cab rank. When children had long ago decided
that she instinctively chose the poorest-looking equipage because it obviously,
cost less to keep. Her dresses were always of some cold, dull material, and the
pattern of the moderns
As soon as sheets foot on the porch, we children
were sent to wash and change. I remember how I resented having to have my hair replanted
within a ho out of bedtime. My ayah was always in a hurry and pulled at the trifles
with a merciless comb. Then, clean and smiling, but with black looks and
thoughts,, we went in an unwilling procession to the overhand where the visitor
proceed to hold an inquiry into our doing. I. as the eldest girl was always expected
to produce a elaborate piece of needlework. It was no use protesting that my col
work left no time for sewing. “Aunt” insisted that every girl should embroider
some elaborate article every year. Then she would inquire about my prowess at
cooking. And expect me to play my latest “piece” on the piano. Usually I loved
the piano, but when she was there, it always made noises that were not at all
harmonious.
There was a very different feeling in the family
when Mr. Salem came. That was not his real name. But he had been in America,
and always called sweets “Sam,” and whenever he visited us. He brought candy
with him. He would stroll in upon us at all time of the day and no special preparations were
made to receive him, if my brothers were playing with trains, he would go down
on his knees by the track and help to wind the engines or change the points; if
I was in the depths of despair over algebra home-work, he would cast depths of
despair over algebra home-work, he would cast an experienced eye over the sum
and take a few suggestions which solved the tough problem like magic. He never
asked awkward questions about what we were learning, or how many marks were had
gained in examinations, but if we were excited about a new hobby or had a
thrilling experience to relate, he was always ready to listen to our
outpourings.
occasionally he would come with an invitation for
one particular member of the family -- a long motor drive was a special treat
for my eldest brother, and once he took me to a performance of a Musical group.
That was a wonderful occasion which I shall never forget. Mr. Salem’s treats
were always exactly right; he seemed to know by instinct if there was something
that we were longing to do or see. And as soon as the opportunity arose, he
transformed our dreams into reality. Once he took the whole family to the
circus. That in itself vase sufficient to include him in our private calendar of
saints!
You can well understand how it i that Mr. Salem is
always a most welcome visitor when he calls on us.