Carl Trainer's When Assumpta Was Eleven

When Assumpta Was Eleven

by Carl Trainer

DISCLAIMER: This story is pure fantasy & fiction. Any resemblance to persons alive or dead is purely coincidental. No money changed hands & this story has been written for fun & general reading pleasure. All recognisable names of people & places belong to BBC, KP & WP. All others belong to me.

Please forgive any typing, spelling or grammatical errors. I would appreciate any feedback. Thank you for reading this story.

Classification may be G for General...no violence except a school-yard prank and scuffle (for want of a better word).

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Around lunch-time on a school day, a car parked near the entrance of Fitzgerald's. The elderly driver got out, unlocked the car's trunk & went into the pub. He saw a male bartender and said: "Good morning, I am James Carver, we have booked a room with two single beds for my grandson and I. Is it ready yet?"

The man, who was wiping the bar, pointed to the hotel desk, said: "Yes Sir, room # 3 is ready. Please go over there & sign in. Meanwhile I'll get your bags, how many do you have?"

The old man said: "I have two large suitcases, the trunk's already unlocked, and thanks."

George the bartender came out of the pub and saw that there was a young boy on the front passenger seat sleeping.

The bartender opened the trunk and grabbed the two suitcases. Just before he closed the trunk lid, he saw two large rifle leather cases. He was alarmed and looking around over the outside of car, he touched and squeezed the bags and noted there were rifles inside. He then closed the trunk's lid, and made sure it's locked by gently lifting it. He went into the pub & then went up the stairs.

Meanwhile James came out to the car, opened the front passenger car door, and said: "Patrick, wake up, we have found the right place, please bring the two sandwiches' bags, go in & wait for me on the sofa. I'll get the blankets that you were sleeping on, behind your seat. I'll fold them nicely now to bring up to the room. We don't want to give the wrong impression."

Patrick got out of the car, holding one rolled top paper bag in each hand, started walking towards the pub door. Just crossing mid-point of the road, also towards the pub door, was a youngish woman, holding some groceries, which she has just bought from Kathleen's store.

Just as this woman was walking behind Patrick to go into the doorway, a fast moving "blur" with yellow hair came flying out at high speed, bumped into Patrick's chest, turned and took off running.

Patrick dropped the two sandwiches bags, clutched his chest, and blurted out: "OOOOOHHHHHhhhhhh!!!!!" His knees buckled, he staggered and started falling.

The woman dropped all her bags, and caught the boy, before his rear-end touched the ground.

"Are you OK, little boy? Say something!"

He was too heavy for her to carry, so she lowered him to the ground, all the time calling, "Somebody, please help!"

His grandfather, his face all red from crouching on the rear seat, behind the front passenger seat, folding the blankets, stood up to see what was the commotion, said: "What's the matter?"

She turned to him and told him the situation, not mentioning the "blur" caused it.

James ran over and exclaimed: "Patrick's my grandson. He must have had an asthma attack. Is there a doctor around?"

Just then, George came out and said to the woman, "Bernice, please call Dr. Ryan. I'll carry him up. Mr Carver, my wife will bring you upstairs later. Dr. Ryan may need some medical information from you."

James took the phone's handset from her and told the doctor about Patrick's medication.

Dr. Ryan examined the unconcious boy and said: "I'm calling for an ambulance. Patrick's not an healthy boy, there may be implications later. I think he needs an X-Ray. His lungs are quite congested. It's best he goes for observation."

The ambulance left and Mr. Carver followed in his car.

Bernice said: "I have a take-out prepared food order to deliver. On the way home I'll pass by the school and bring Assumpta home." Then she left.

George locked the pub's door and went to the Garda office. He told the Garda what transpired and also mentioned the two rifles in the man's car trunk.

She met her daughter at the school and said: "Why were you in such a hurry today? You bumped into somebody and did not apologize, then ran off."

"I've forgotten my homework and who cares about bumping into Ambrose anyway? He's taller than me and always playing tricks on me, or startling me from behind trees, or splashing me with water, when he washes his hands. He's always hurting my feelings."

Her mom said: "It is very rude not to apologize and that's is not Ambrose."

Assumpta's eyes grew large, very surprised "He's not? I'll apologize to him when I see him later. Who & where is he?"

Her Mom said; "His name is Patrick. He & his grandfather are staying upstairs at our pub. But right now, the ambulance has taken Patrick to the hospital. He was knocked unconcious by the bump to his chest."

Assumpta's hands flew to her face and exclaimed, "OH NO! What have I done? Let's go & see him!"

Her mom said, "We can't, dear, your father does not know. He'll give you another spanking, if he finds out. Tomorrow is Saturday, I'll tell him we are shopping in Cilldargan and we'll pop-into the hospital to see Patrick, OK? So, now hush."

James drove into the parking lot. As he was removing his safety belt, the Garda walked up to him and said: "Good evening, Sir, are you a tourist or just passing through?"

James took out his wallet & showed the Garda his credentials. James ordered food and dined alone, after telling George & Bernice, his grandson was undergoing more tests, during the week-end. During his meal, the pub's phone rang. The Garda was speaking to George: "It's OK, James is a retired Garda, bought a house in the vicinity, but the house is not ready, waiting for the paint to dry, and he has a License for those rifles. He'd brought Patrick here for the fresh air. He thinks it is best for his asthma. Thanks for letting me know."

That night, Assumpta couldn't sleep, very worried she'd hurt the boy, a stranger.

The next day James left early. And Bernice & Assumpta left for shopping an hour later.

After shopping, they went to the hospital. They went in to ask at the desk. The secretary pointed to Assumpta and told the Mom, "She cannot go into the sick room, she's too young, she may catch an illness."

Mom said, "That's OK, we'll just stay outside & look at Patrick." So they did but was spotted by James, who motioned them in. Mom & daughter stood just at the doorway and looked. Patrick was sleeping, with an oxygen mask, over his nose & mouth. At this sight, Assumpta broke into tears & started crying loudly. Even James was surprised & led her & Mom out to the sitting room.

After Assumpta's tears diminished, James explained: "After my arrival this morning, Patrick woke up with chest pains, he was given a light breakfast & a sedative, and is sleeping off the effects now. He was given an X-Ray (lying down) to check for broken bones. Luckily there's none. When the pain goes away, he'll undergo normal X-Ray, standing up. Now he cannot inflate his chest normally with the pain."

Mom motioned Assumpta to speak, and she said: "Yesterday I was in a hurry and not looking where I was going, I bumped into Patrick & ran away. I'm sorry. I was afraid to tell my father because he will give me a spanking."

James replied: "I'm glad you told me, thanks. When Patrick wakes up, I'll tell him you came by to see him and apologised. And don't worry about your father knowing. I'll tell Patrick this will be our little secret. Oh, by the way, I will enroll him in the BallyK school. I hope the fresh air here will help his Asthma. The air is very polluted in Dublin."

Assumpta started to smile again.

James then said to her, "You are really pretty when you smile. You should smile more often. I'm sure Patrick will be glad to see it." Then he started to sing softly: "When Irish eyes are smiling, the world is bright & gay..."

He checked his watch, then offerred them tea. Mom declined with thanks & took Assumpta outside. As Mom drove, she glanced at her daughter & noticed tears rolling down her cheeks. She stopped the car on the road's shoulder and asked her: "What's the matter, sweetheart?"

Assumpta looked at her Mom and said: "How can I make it up to Patrick? I caused him so much pain. And I don't even know him. What should I do?"

Mom said: "That's easy, honey. When you see him, introduce yourself, make him feel welcome here. He's a stranger now, but soon you'd be classmates in school. You can help him in homework, or maybe you two have the same hobbies. You make friends easily. Who knows? Maybe you can even tell Patrick how to guard himself against Ambrose's tricks. I'm sure other boys will pick on him since he's a city boy and not a village kid. When a kid has asthma, you can be sure he's not into sports which are too tough on his lungs' air power. So, Assumpta, how about a big Irish smile from you?"

So she smiled happily and gave Mom a big hug.

"I love you Mom."

"I love you too, sweetheart."

Patrick came home in a few days' time. On a Sunday, he was having breakfast with his grandpa when Assumpta walked up to them and extended her hand, smiled and said: "Hello Patrick, I'm Assumpta, how are you?"

He stood up to shake hands & noticed her shoulder was lower than his shoulder and said: "Fine thanks, and yourself?"

"I'm OK, too, thanks." She then repeated the same greeting to James.

Thereafter, she said to Patrick: "After breakfast and if you like, I can show you around."

He turned to his Grandpa and James nodded.

George & wife noticed this exchange & smiled proudly to each other.

"That's our girl."

Later, Assumpta took Patrick's hand & went out the pub's door. James took their dirty dishes to the bar and said: "Assumpta's both pretty & polite. I'm so happy she is good to Patrick. I hope they can be friends. Patrick's health always keep him from keeping friends."

The two young people walked along the river's edge, and she said: "Listen, I must say sorry again, for bumping into your chest, and running away. It was very cowardly of me."

Patrick said: "Think nothing of it. It's OK now, except the doctor told me (no running, or jumping, otherwise will aggravate my lungs again)"

She smiled and said: "Thanks for not being angry at me. Right now I'll show you where Ambrose likes to play tricks on me."

They walked over to the school-yard and she pointed out the large trees or laneways, where Ambrose & his croonies like to jump out in front of the boys & girls, making them scream in panic.

The school was locked so she could not show him how Ambrose would divert the water's flow at her and make her uniform wet.

He said; "Next time, stand behind him, but not too close, he may bend his leg at the knee & get mud on your skirt."

Monday came. Assumpta took him by the hand & walked to school. All the other boys & girls were snickering: "Who's this idiot, walking with a girl, hand in hand?"

During recess, instead of walking through the main playground, they chose to walk behind the line of stout trees. Behind one, there was a boy of 12, Patrick's age, leaning & looking out and did not see them. But, after Patrick & Assumpta passed him, he looked up & saw his chance. He used 2 fingers on each hand & poked Assumpta's sides with them. She squealed & whirled around. He persisted & ignored Patrick. Patrick grabbed the boy's right hand & twisted it HARD. He screamed in pain & caused the playing boys & girls to become suddenly quiet.

The boy broke out in tears & started crying, "My God, you've broken my hand!"

Patrick calmly said; "No, it is not broken and you have to apologize to Assumpta, that you will never do that again, and no squirting water on her uniform, or I'll break your hand for sure next time...well?"

He looked at Assumpta tearfully and mumbled: "Sorry, I'll never do that again."

Patrick said, "LOUDER, WE CANNOT HEAR YOU."

He stood, gingerly holding his right hand with his left hand, and said: "SORRY, ASSUMPTA, I WILL NEVER DO IT AGAIN. I WILL NEVER SQUIRT WATER ON YOUR UNIFORM AGAIN."

Patrick said, "Good, you may go." Then he looked her in the eye, and said, "I hope he did not hurt you, otherwise we'll see the nurse now."

Assumpta was speechless, adjusted and smoothed her uniform.

Patrick's face looked very concerned. She said: "Why did you learn to do that?"

He said: "My Grandpa taught me. Dublin is a dangerous place." He continued: "I hope he tells Ambrose what happened. Maybe they won't try & bother you again."

Assumpta laughed heartily and Patrick was taken aback. "What did I say wrong?"

She said: "THAT was Ambrose! Now we'll go to class & hear his excuses, about his right hand, when the teacher ask him to write on the blackboard."

When Patrick tried to hold her hand, she whispered in his ear, "No, we cannot hold hands in school, the other boys & girls will laugh at you."

Patrick blushed.

On the way home, after school, she slipped her hand into his.

He looked at her and said: "Didn't you say . . . ?"

Assumpta replied: "We are outside of the school now, silly boy!"

Two weeks later, Assumpta came home with Mom, from shopping at Cildargan, and spotted Patrick, looking glum, sitting on the outside bench, with the 2 large suitcases next to him.

She looked at him, started crying, with tears rolling down her cheeks, "Are you leaving? You never said..."

He replied: "Grandpa only told me this morning. I didn't know either. I don't know where we are going, but, I'll come back to visit you, OK? If you like, we can go on a picnic, on the river's edge. Please don't cry or I'll cry too."

George brought Grandpa's car around to the front, next to the children, got out, opened the trunk lid. He was about to hoist the luggages into the trunk space, when he noticed the two kids, holding hands & both crying their eyes out.

"Hey, what's going on, sweetheart?"

He sat down next to her daughter, put his arm around her shoulders, "You can tell me, perhaps I can fix the problem."

Assumpta, between sniffles, told her Dad, about Patrick leaving.

"Oh, is that all? Patrick & Grandpa are NOT leaving BallyK, his Grandpa has bought a house here. Grandpa says the fresh air here is best for improving Patrick's health. You'll can still see Patrick in school. If you don't believe me, you can ask his Grandpa when he finishes paying the bill & phone charges."

A few minutes later, he came out and said to everybody: "All set? George is very kind to offer to drive his van to lead us to the new house. Assumpta, do you want to ride in your father's van or in our car? Ours? I thought so."

He thoughtfully opened the back passenger door and the children scooted in. Both had, by that time, wiped their eyes dry, but they still showed redness. Once seated in the backseat, Patrick looked sheepishly at her.

Assumpta grabbed BOTH of his hands to hold again.

Then they both smiled at each other and Patrick started to sing: "When Irish eyes are smiling, the world is bright & gay..."

...now joined by Grandpa...

Chapter 2

George reversed his car out of the parking lot, then drove in the direction of the Church. Once he passed it, he also passed the school. Both kids looked at the school, maybe hoping to see some classmates. But there were none, since it was a Saturday.

A few minutes later, Assumpta released Patrick's hands. She looked anxiously out the windows, left & then right, then repeat again. Then she got up, turned around, climbed onto the seat, knelt & looked through the rear window. She was becoming agitated. She was very unhappy & looked like she might cry.

Patrick noticed all this, turned to her, and was about to say something. She glared at him, with those dark eyes, put an upright finger across her lips, and shook her head. Patrick knew better than to say anything.

The car was lurching this way & that, over some pretty bad roads. Assumpta was trying hard to hold onto the back of the front passenger seat. Patrick, sitting on the right side, reached over, tapped her on the right shoulder with his right hand, while patting the seat next to him, on his left. She'd glared at him again, looked down at his left hand, & finally sat down, next to him. He took her right hand in his right hand, palm to palm, and clasped their fingers together. He'd also put his left arm around her shoulders. And he said, imitating her father's voice, "What's the matter, sweetheart? Please tell me, perhaps I can fix the problem."

She'd smile then, looking back, glanced at his face. Then she suddenly gasped & choked back tears.

Patrick said: "There, there, please don't cry." His left arm automatically pulled her close. "What's bothering you, honey? You can tell me." Still imitating her father's voice.

She'd turn to face him more, still holding his right hand, reached up to pull his head down with her left hand and whispered in his ear: "Your Grandpa's house is very far, how can you walk so far to school?"

He said: "Grandpa promised to drive me to & from school."

She was quiet for awhile, still being held in that position, leaning against him, by his left arm. Suddenly she sobbed again, looking away, maybe unwilling to let him see her tears. He released her right hand onto her lap, and used his right hand to turn her face back toward himself, looked into her dark eyes and said: "I can ask Grandpa to pick you up also, to & from school. Would you like that?"

Before she can answer, they both felt the car suddenly slowing down. Her father had stopped on the road's shoulder and Grandpa did the same thing. Her father left his car & walked over to Grandpa's car.

"There must be something wrong with your hand-drawn map. I can't find the house and the road is pretty bad, full of pot-holes. It'll be dark soon. We'd better turn back and stay at the pub tonight. Tomorrow we'll contact the Garda. Perhaps he has a printed map."

Grandpa agreed.

While Grandpa made a 3-point U-turn to return, Patrick tried to hold her right hand again. But, it has disappeared.

So he said, "Where's your right hand? It's disappeared!"

She replied, "It's behind your back, silly boy!"

Patrick realized she was trying to hold him around his back & he smiled.

They arrived back at the pub, just as night was falling. Just at that moment, a patron opened the pub's door. The light from within fell upon Assumpta's face & she smiled. Patrick saw her & realized she looked so happy, radiant & beautiful. At the same time, he was also sad. He knew, apart from food & the house money, Grandpa's pension cheque did not have extra money for more rent for staying at the pub.

James also thought it was time to teach Patrick regarding "the birds & the bees" considering what happened in the back seat and George's worried look, when he glanced at the kids, more than once, while discussing the map.

That very evening, James had a long discussion with Patrick, asking him to be careful & telling him human emotions can be very fragile, even at the best of times. Patrick nodded & promised to remember Grandpa's words.

James also asked Patrick to hover near the newspaper rack & pick up any DISCARDED clean pages of classified ads. He then instructed Patrick to use a pencil to circle the appropriate parts for future reference.

The phone rang and James answered it.

"The Garda can see us now? I'll meet you downstairs." Then he left.

Soon after, there was a knock & he went to open the door. It was Assumpta and she said: "Mom says my Dad & your Grandpa may go to Cilldargan tomorrow. If you are not going, would you like to go on a picnic with me & Finn? The other side of the river is very nice, with plenty of trees & shade & flowers."

Patrick said: "Sorry, I..."

She stood there, glared at him, then blinked back tears, turned & walked briskly away. He turned & grabbed the tissue box from the bedside table & ran after her, caught her right at the top of the stairs. He put his arms around, pinning her arms & held her close, his lips right on her ear, saying: "Please don't cry, Grandpa gave me an assignment. I have to do an unofficial survey & research."

She was gasping & sniffling. So he said: "I'm letting you go now, take several deep breaths of air and please don't run off, let me explain, OK?"

She inhaled several times and nodded. Remembering his Grandpa's words, he closed his room's door & locked it. Then he led her downstairs to the hotel sitting area. Then he told her, "Top secret, you promise?"

She nodded, "Yes, I promise."

Patrick began, "Grandpa & your Dad have gone to see the Garda, hoping to find out why the road to the new house was so bad, when he remembered going there with the realty agent & it was a nice paved road. Meanwhile, he was thinking perhaps it is better to sell that new house and buy another, closer to here, so I can walk to school, & not require Grandpa to drive me. When he gets older, he may have difficulty doing so."

He looked at Assumpta who started to smile again. Then she got up & sat down again, facing away from him & lifted her skirt hem to wipe her tears.

Patrick grabbed her hand immediately and blurted out: "Are you crazy? Use these instead." And handed her the box of tissues.

She said, "Why not?"

Patrick explained; "Finn jumps on you, and you know his paws have been on the ground, you helped Mom peel the potatoes, & they came from the underground, you play with your buddies in the playground, all the dust in the air, falls on you. That skirt hem has millions of germs, & you are wiping all those germs into your pretty Irish eyes."

After wiping her eyes with the tissue paper, she smiled again.

He continued, "I'll start the assignment early in the morning, and if I cannot finish it, I'll bring it along & try to finish it, during the picnic. What time do you like?"

"Mom says she can make up the picnic basket by 10 AM."

Then he led her up the stairs to her door. He said, "Good night, & pleasant dreams." He turned to go, she grabbed him & kissed him on the cheek. Then she turned the knob & went into the room. He was so shocked, he just stood there. He couldn't believe what she did just now.

In his room now, he was extra sad. Grandpa already told him, long ago, his pension cannot support him going to University. They would be living hand to mouth. Earn a bit, eat a bit, earn more, eat more. Grandpa had urged him to study hard, and get a good job at the bank after graduation.

Now Patrick knew, when Assumpta goes to University, he'd lose her for sure to some rich young man, in a fancy sports car.

Then he took a shower & went to bed. He has put the alarm clock under his pillow, so he would not wake up Grandpa. With tears in his eyes, he fell asleep.

At six, after wash-up, he got out yesterday's picked-up classified pages, & started to look for the right ads to circle. When Grandpa woke up, he asked Patrick whether he wanted to come along for the ride.

He declined & told Grandpa, "Bernice is packing a picnic basket for him, Assumpta & Finn, leaving at 10 AM."

Grandpa nodded, patted Patrick on the back, & said: "Please take good care of Assumpta, she's a nice girl, apple-of-the-eye to her parents, & we both like her, don't we? And I believe she likes you too. How are you getting along, with the circling?"

"I've found a few nice ones, when I reach the bottom of the page, I'll start from the top again, just in case I miss any."

"That's the spirit, I'm so proud of you. Don't forget to lock the door, on your way out." Then Grandpa left.

At 9.55 AM, Patrick put all everything in a large envelope & inserted it under a large powerful elastic inside a violin case, locked the room's door and went downstairs to wait for Assumpta.

James realized that George had become more helpful since the Garda had asked for his credentials in the pub's parking lot. So he said: "Do you have any hobbies? Mine is hunting."

George replied, "Mine too. But the pub's keeping me busy. I've learned shooting in the army, when I was young. I haven't fired a shot, for nearly 20 years now."

James said, "When we are fully settled in our own house & you have a day off, we'll go hunting. HHHMMMmmm, I can actually taste the rabbit stew now. I suppose you'd send Assumpta to University when she becomes of age."

George said: "Of course, we have to, otherwise she'd just be a common barmaid, someday marrying some farmer's son. How about Patrick? What plans do you have for him?"

James said, "I don't think his health will withstand the stress of University. So I've told him to study hard, graduate, get a good job in a bank, in Cilldargan, then come home here to sleep. The fresh air here will benefit him alot."

Soon they arrived at George's friend.

Assumpta came down the stairs with her Mom, who then went to fetch the picnic basket. Assumpta then sat down next to Patrick, pointed and said: "What's that?"

"Oh, it's just what Grandpa got at a cheap sale. I use it as a container. It is very clean inside & outside. Sometimes I polish the outside to make it shine."

Soon Bernice brought the basket over & also the leash of Finn. Assumpta grabbed the leash handle & Patrick got the basket and violin case. Finn was jumping all over the floor, every excited. They walked over the stone bridge and down the other side, then into a narrow footpath. She walked in front with Finn, & he was in the back. They found a nice spot and spread out a large sheet to sit on. They sat side by side & looked up at the blue cloudless sky.

She said, "What a beautiful day! I'm very happy to be here with you. I hope your Grandpa can buy a house near here, so I can see you more often and walk with you to & from school. What do you think?"

Patrick said, "I hope you are right. I hope Grandpa can afford the house prices around here. Assumpta, why did you kiss me last night?"

She replied, "I just want to show you I like you. You are always helping me and . . ." She paused.

So he looked at her, "And . . .?"

She turned away. He knew tears were coming. He reached over with his right hand & gently pulled her to face him, "What's wrong, dear?" he said gently, "Why the tears again? A moment ago, you were so cheerful & smiling. Now you are going to stain your white blouse."

"Josephine says she is crazy about you and will stop at nothing to get you!"

He said, "Josephine? I don't know any Josephine? Let's forget it. Would you like to lie down & close your eyes, take a short nap? I'll be on the look-out and Finn can guard us both. I'll wake you up in half-an-hour. Or do you like to eat first? Or I can sing you a song. Tell me what you like."

She became happy again, looked up at the sky, very thoughtful, "OK, I'll lie down & close my eyes, you sing a song."

He stood up on the grass and said, "I have to stand, otherwise no air power."

He reached into the case & took out the violin & bow. He started to play and sing at the same time.

"When Irish Eyes are Smiling..., the world is bright & gay..."

Assumpta sat up bolt upright. "You play the violin too?"

"Yes, you don't like it? How about Galway Bay? If you ever go . . . across the sea . . . to Ireland, Maybe . . . it will . . . be the end . . . of the day? Which one do you like?" Suddenly, Patrick was displaying the classic signs of breathlessness and turned away, not wanting her to see his distress.

She jumped up & ran over to his front, looking very concerned. "What can I do to help? Please tell me."

He took his puffer out of his pocket and asked her to shake it hard. After she shook it around 20 times, he handed her the bow & took the puffer from her. He went through the motions, held his breath & closed his eyes, bowing his head, as if in prayer. He felt her take the violin from his left hand. A moment later, he felt her slip her hand into his left hand and she gently squeezed. She stood with him, motionless until he opened his eyes & found himself staring into the biggest pair of eyes, with tears welling up. He inhaled fully, again & again. "I may have to do it again shortly."

Then he checked his watch while still holding her hand. Then he looked around, then across the river, then the bridge, then along this side of the river bank, up the trees' canopy. All this time, she was standing with him, patiently, not moving.

Then he released her hand, checked his watch again. "OK, I don't need another dose. Do we have any water? I have to rinse my mouth." She went over and opened the basket, took out a small bottle of water and handed it to him. He went behind some trees & gargled. He put the bottle in his pocket. He grabbed the violin & prepared to play again.

"No," she said, "Please don't play or you'll get another attack again."

So he put it away & locked the case.

She said, "I don't like this spot, let's go somewhere else, eat, walk around, then go home, OK?"

Patrick nodded.

On the way home, they saw George & Grandpa emerging from the Pub. They waved and asked where they were going. George pointed at the Garda Office.

Assumpta looked at him, "I'm going, you want to come too?'

He replied, "Yes, I'll bring Finn into the pub, then put your basket on the kitchen table, then put my case in our room. Then I'll come over."

The three of them went into the Garda office where there was only one chair available & Ambrose was sitting in it, watching TV. The Garda unrolled a large roll of map and spread it out on the large wooden desk. All three men were looking, pointing at various landmarks. Assumpta was standing and also looking.

Suddenly there was a knock and the front door opened.

"Grandpa?"

"In here, Patrick."

Patrick went into the Garda's office, saw that Assumpta was standing, and said loudly, "A GENTLEMAN DOES NOT SIT WHEN THERE'S A LADY STANDING."

Ambrose jumped right up, dragged his chair over, to behind her, tapped her on the shoulder, and said, "Please sit down, I'm going upstairs."

All three men was shocked & speechless. Finally the Garda said, "I never can make him give up his chair, no matter what I say."

While having dinner at the pub, Grandpa gave more details about the day's proceedings, having met a banker, who is also a real estate agent. The three men came up with the idea of selling the new house & buying a small farm, being self-sufficient, near BallyK so Patrick can still walk to school. The reason the road was so bad, was last time, Grandpa was driven to the new house from Wicklow, on a newly constructed paved road.

After wash-up in the room, Patrick showed him the newspaper all circled at spots that showed promise.

The next day he went to school with Assumpta as usual.

Before James called the newspaper's want ads, he went to see George. "I'm going hunting, shall I bring you some rabbits? I simply love rabbit stew, and I'm sure your patrons will as well."

George said, "I wish I can, the health inspector only allows us to buy PREPARED meat. In other words, no skins, no fur, no feathers are allowed, on these premises, or I'll lose my licence."

Grandpa said, "I can see that presents a problem. I can usually bag a few, but where can I trim & prepare the meat for you to cook? I don't have a house or farm yet"

He went back upstairs. He was talking on the phone: "Yes, I can shoot the rabbits & clear the whole hillside for you. These pesky animals can destroy your vegetable patches overnight. I have been hunting for a long time, most probably for the last 30 years. When do you want it done? How much is the pay? No, that's too little. I've a family to feed. How about 50% more pay? OK, it's a deal. You prepare the fencing with small holes, stakes, low all the way into the ground, one foot deep, and six feet high. When ready, please call me. Then they cannot come back in to repopulate the hillside. One more thing, please make sure your family keeps away, while I'm doing it."

Then he went out to the car and brought his rifles in for cleaning & oiling.

A short time later, with the money he earned clearing the land of nuisance animals, he was able to pay regular monthly rent, so James & Patrick lived above the Pub.

Chapter 3

It was a particularly sunny day, not a cloud in the sky. Patrick & Assumpta walked behind the trees. He saw somebody's shadow cast on the wall, told Assumpta softly, "Shh." Then he changed walking positions with her, while handing both lunch bags to her. She looked mystified but knew Patrick had everything under control. He walked nosily, until they were nearly abreast of the tree, Patrick stopped Assumpta.

Ambrose's foot come up, Patrick crouched down, grabbed the "attacker's" foot & lifted it up harshly. Ambrose fell heavily, bracing himself with both his hands. Both his rear-end & hands hit the sandy ground hard.

"OW!" he screamed.

His noisy fall was noticed by both students & teachers alike because he was fallen onto the main playing area of the playground. Immediately he was surrounded by people, young & old, some trying to help him stand up.

Patrick noticed that Assumpta looked scared & pulled her close, held her tight in his arms, bowed his head & whispered into her ear, "Hush, baby, close your eyes, don't mention to anybody what happened just now, everything's OK, & you'll be safe with me." The top of her head was just under his chin.

A teacher came behind this tree & noticed them clinging to each other, her hands around his back, still holding both lunch bags, then left to make a written report of the incident.

Then Patrick released her & gently guided her to the lunch area. They did not speak during lunch but she would often smile at him. He would then smile back.

After they had wiped their mouths & fingers, he glanced at his watch, then put all the soiled papers into the trash, walked back to where she was sitting, held out his hands & helped her up. Ever since she had said "no holding hands in school" he had guided her with his hand on her elbow. Assumpta was very comfortable with it.

Brendan had noticed Ambrose stalking Assumpta's every movement. Ambrose's uncle the Garda had confided in Brendan that Ambrose had come from a broken home, both of his parents were alcoholics. So he inherited Ambrose, who was harmless but obsessed with Assumpta because she was prettier than the others.

Patrick always brought up the rear and waited for Assumpta to be ready, helping to put on her jacket. He would put on his "all-important scarf" before stepping outside. Then they would wash their hands and grabbed their lunch bags from the shelve. He usually held both bags, but allowed her to choose where to sit. She would choose a shady spot. Like a gentleman, he would open & hold the door for her, look both ways, or point her in the right direction, maybe making small talk, guiding by holding her elbow, over steps, rubbish on the ground, sometimes steering her around large water puddles. Sometimes he would hold her hand, if she wanted to jump over small puddles, while he walked alongside. Then he would release her hand.

Brendan could see the wonderment on Assumpta's smiling face, every time she looked up at Patrick. Brendan was also happy inside, seeing his favourite student in such responsible company, keeping her safe from potential harm.

Back in the classrooms, Patrick had noticed the empty desk of Ambrose. Brendan came in and said, "Ambrose's uncle the Garda has come & taken him to the hospital in Cilldargan. When he returns, we'll know the extent of his injuries, if any. Now, I have to ask you this, did anyone witness what caused him to fall?"

The classroom was silent. "Alright then, let's get on with today's lesson, please turn to page..."

On the way home, they held hands & entered Fitzgerald's, noticed her father & Grandpa having tea.

George said, "Why don't use take Finn for a walk now? Just leave your schoolbags here. We'll take care of them for you."

"OK, Dad & thanks," she said.

She went & got Finn, slipped her other hand into Patrick's & walked outside. They walked along the other side of the river, where she released the leash clasp from the dog collar & let him run. Still holding hands, she walked with Patrick slowly.

Then she turned to him, and said, "You are very quiet, what is bothering you? You can tell anything to a friend."

He inhaled deeply, looked into her eyes and said, "I hope Ambrose is not badly hurt. But I had to do it. He never gave up trying to hurt you. I cannot stand by & let him do it to you. I care for you & your well-being. You are so pretty and..." He looked away, tears welling up fast.

Assumpta questioned, "And...?" He was sobbing and she took a couple of steps sideways to face him, & reaching out, put a hand on his shoulder & leaned her head gently on his chest, & snuggled under his chin. She could feel his warm tears dripping onto her cheek below.

He was shaking in the torrent of tears. He tried to speak but couldn't. She then took her hand from his shoulder & put her arm around his back & held him tight. Likewise he also held her with his free arm. He liked her warm closeness despite the windy conditions. Every now & then, she would squeeze his hand she was still holding, waiting patiently. She also felt his strength, when he defended her dignity and yet, he was vulnerable to his emotions, which might have been bottled up for a long time.

Soon, his sadness diminished, he released her and took out some tissues to wipe her wet face, then got some more, to blow his nose & wipe his eyes.

"I'm sorry, I don't know what came over me, let's walk into the wind, to help dry our faces more."

He picked up a stick, showed it to Finn, then threw it far away, & Finn would race over there & then brought it back. Sometimes she would throw it. Soon they were happy, laughing, walking back & forth. He checked his watch & motioned her to put the leash back on Finn. He smiled, took her hand & started walking back to the pub.

He said, "We had a great work-out & we'll sleep like babies tonight. We mustn't forget to do the homework, after dinner."

She did not mention his "unfinished sentence" again. She did try to guess what was "being unsaid."

When they were walking down the slope , they noticed two patrol cars at the Garda house. They wondered what was going on. When they entered the pub, they noticed Brendan talking to George and there was an unfamiliar very young Garda standing at the bar.

The Garda looked at her and said, "Children are not allowed in the pub." Assumpta glared at him but kept on walking, with Patrick walking behind her because of the narrow aisle.

The Garda reached out to grab her shoulder with his left hand. She flinched & ran off, Patrick grabbed the Garda's hand & bent it (palm) up HARD, at the wrist.

The man shouted, "OW! Oh, my God," & fell onto his knees. He put up his right arm high, in surrender, and shouted, "Stop! Please."

Patrick said, "Apologize right now LOUDLY to Assumpta & tell her you will not touch a lady without her permission, or I'll break your wrist."

"OK!... ASSUMPTA, I'M SORRY!... I WILL NOT TOUCH A LADY WITHOUT HER PERMISSION."

Patrick released the Garda & stepped immediately in his original direction

Only then, he realized the quietness of the pub and all eyes were on him. Only then, he turned back & found the Garda slowly getting up from a kneeling position, all red in the face, gently massaging his left wrist with his right hand.

Then he felt her hand slip into his left hand again. He turned to her & smiled. Everybody in the pub witnessed this affection between the two.

George broke the silence, "Wash your hands, you two, Patrick, you are eating with us tonight, your Grandpa has gone to Cilldargan to sign some papers."

Then, he turned to the Garda & said, "She's my daughter and he's a tourist, staying upstairs with his Grandpa, therefore both of them can come into the pub." The Garda nodded wordlessly.

The children went to the kitchen, he helped her remove her jacket & hang it on a chair. He did the same with his jacket, then removed his ever-present scarf & put it into the pocket. Then he took out a metal nail clipper file & cleaned under her finger nails, then his own.

She stood on a wooden box to wash her hands but he did not need to. He was very tall for his age. He turned on the tap & grabbed the soap. She leaned in & put her hands into the water flow, then he did the same. Then he soaped hers & his own hands, massaging into all the nooks and crannies, under the nails, etc. Then he took her hands into the water flow, & rinse all four hands together. Finally, he grabbed the towel & dried all four hands.

"Now that feels good," he said, while seated at the kitchen table.

Her Mom came in & brought them a plate each of Irish stew, then left. He placed one plate near her & moved her chair closer to the table.

Assumpta said to him, "I want to say 'thanks' to you for saying I'm pretty, today, while walking Finn on the river bank."

He smiled, "You are welcome, and you really are pretty, that's why I'm sitting across from you now, so I can admire your pretty face again."

She replied, "I would rather you sit next to me now." Suddenly pouting.

He got up, moved his chair to the opposite side, then gently slid the soup plate over to her side. He crouched & used his left hand to gently lift & pull his chair, while walking under the table, so any drips down his chin would fall back onto the plate.

Before he could remove his left hand, he felt her right hand on it. She turned to him & smiled, so he just left it there. He ate with his right hand. And she ate with her left hand.

Her Mom came back in, smiled when she saw both seated on the same side. She said, "After eating, go upstairs, wash-up & do your homework, OK? Patrick...Grandpa says, from now on, I'll also make your lunch and I'll put both of yours in the same bag, easier to carry."

He replied, "OK, & thanks."

Hand in hand, they went upstairs. They both smiled & parted company. He waited until she had gone in, closed the door and locked it, before going into his room.

He took a shower, then did his homework, then went to bed.

At school, Ambrose was not back yet. The Headmaster addressed his class, "The hospital in Cilldargan has sent us a note, saying Ambrose will be staying there for a few more days, although there are no broken bones. When he gets well, he'd be transferring to another Cilldargan school where there will be more facilities & subjects, better suited for his needs. He is not coming back here. His Garda uncle is also transferring to oversee his schooling. We have sent a greeting card with a note to the hospital wishing him a speedy recovery."

Chapter 4

Late teens...

__________________________________________________

James was monitoring the situation closely. Although Patrick & Assumpta were constant companions, he did not see the tell-tale signs that they were intimate. He was worried enough to make an appointment with Dr. Ryan for Patrick's yearly physical check-up.

When the results came back, James & Patrick went to see him. Dr. Ryan explained, "All the blood, urine & stool samples are tested OK. But the main hurdle is the low testosterone level in his system, caused by the regular ingestion of steroids contained in asthma medication."

"This condition will have implications of low sex drive, impotency, passiveness, & possible osteoporosis in old age. The only natural remedy is sunshine & exercise & plenty of them. The unnatural remedy is more medication containing male hormones with unpleasant side-effects of unreasonably high sex drive & uncontrollable violent tempers."

Patrick selected the natural method & was training at the Cilldargan Mail Office every Saturday with the goal of applying for full time when he graduated from school. Being a mailman involved alot of walking in the great outdoors. The fresh air & exercise would benefit him tremendously.

The final exams were over & the results would be posted in a month's time on the notice board..All the university hopefuls were getting more excited as the big day drew closer.

Lately Patrick noticed Assumpta was acting strangely. Every morning, when Patrick went to get his lunch-bag, Bernice told him Assumpta got hers already & left. When Patrick arrived at school, she was nowhere to be found. But she would be in class on time as usual.

On Friday she was there in the morning but not in the afternoon. After school he went back to the pub alone. When he raised his foot to step onto the concrete porch, he noticed his shoe-laces were undone. So he went into the pub, knelt down near the bar to re-tie his shoe-laces, when the phone rang.

He did not want to eavesdrop, but it was inevitable & he heard George say, "Hi, Sis, how's life in Australia? Really? That's great news, I'm glad. Oh, we are fine also, thanks. Assumpta? She is growing taller & prettier by the minute. Oh, I'm sure she will have plenty of boy-friends in university, not to worry. Patrick? You know about him, eh? Bernice thinks the world of him. Yes, Patrick knows the art of self-defence, with his bare hands...he can drop a grown man to his knees... but... but... Sis... but... Sis... Sis... but... let me speak... Patrick has chronic asthma... yes... but... yes... he's a good boy... but... asthma... I don't like that... but... but... it's inherited... yes... yes... there's no cure. I don't want my grandchildren to have asthma. I've seen Patrick suffer when he was not able to breathe...very sad..."

"Right now Bernice & Assumpta have gone shopping in Cilldargan, and listen, I've got to go, the evening crowd will be coming soon, I need to work in the kitchen. I'll give them your warmest wishes & best regards, please give your family our best also, big hugs & kisses, good-bye." George started to whistle..."When Irish Eyes are smiling..." which grew softer & softer when he went further into the kitchen.

Upstairs Patrick found his Grandpa cleaning his rifles. Patrick sat down beside his Grandpa & related all the day's events to him including school & the downstairs phone conversation. Grandpa said, "I've no idea he feels this way. Ambrose is no longer a threat, now that he's gone to Trade school, I guess we have overstayed our welcome."

"I have an idea. I have some sandwiches from Cilldargan. After eating, I suggest you pack up all the non-essentials into the two large suitcases, and then tidy up all the drawers, cupboards, cabinets, then pack up all the essentials tomorrow into the overnight case. Now I'll phone my realty agent to see about another place to stay. Then I'm going downstairs to square up our rent, food, bar tab & order a picnic basket. Tomorrow I'll take you hunting. It's about time you learn this hobby which may put food on your table someday."

The next day, James & Patrick went into the kitchen to pick up their picnic basket. They saw George, Bernice & Assumpta having their breakfast.

After the usual greetings, Patrick said to Assumpta, "I missed you yesterday afternoon at school. I didn't know..."

Assumpta got up, walked over to the sink & looked out the window, facing away from him. Bernice said, "Assumpta, it is very rude to walk away when Patrick is talking to you. Please come back here."

Assumpta did not move & Bernice went to prepare food at the far corner. George continued to have his breakfast. Assumpta said, "Why were you waiting for me?"

Patrick replied, "You are my one & only dearest friend, of course I want to wait for you."

Assumpta said, "So, that's it, I'm your only friend, how about me? Can't I have friends of my own? What you are, is just plain old selfish! Another thing, you are always blaming asthma. It is not the end of the world having asthma, you are not supposed to give in, you must fight it, with all your might."

Patrick replied, "People have called me lots of names, stupid, idiot, ugly, sickly, dummy, foolish but NEVER selfish. I'm only trying to protect your honour & dignity. I care for you & your well-being. I don't allow anybody to hurt your feelings. You are getting prettier & there are wolves in men's clothing. The other day, there was a lecherous old farmer leaning on the bar, talking to you on the next bar stool, looking you up & down your blouse & at your bare knees, touching your bare arm with his fingers. And you...you let that happen to spite me."

She shot back, "You want me as a friend, all to yourself. You are stifling me. You just want me as a trophy to show off. That's all you know, protecting me, sometimes using brute force, you don't know anything else, you can't tell jokes, you have no friends, you have no people skills, you have no ambitions, you never say important things, you only mention trivial things."

Patrick continued, "What CAN...I say? I'm only a teenager, still in school, not graduated yet, I have no job, I'm not in good health, what do you want from me? I can't make any commitments to you, we are still young, there's no hurry. Anybody can buy a joke book & make you laugh."

She replied, "I will never learn any knowledge & skills from the other girls if I'm still stuck to you, will I? The best thing you can do for me is to get out of my life, you are not welcome here anymore. Your Grandpa can come here anytime but NOT YOU. You are naive, unseeing, insensitive, nonsensical. I have been with you for the past eight years, yet you never even kissed me once on the lips, only my cheeks, you never put a hand on my knee, nor try to run your hand up my skirt, never looked down my blouse. What are you, a man or a mouse? Or are you GAY? If you are, then I'll forgive you, but I still don't want to see you again."

Patrick said, "Assumpta, I'm NOT gay, there are mitigating circumstances why I act the way I do and I can not discuss this at this juncture, I'm sorry."

Assumpta replied, "Mitigating? Now you are pretending to be a lawyer. What nonsense, please leave these premises immediately."

Patrick asked, "Assumpta, are you serious?"

Assumpta pointed to the door & shouted, "OUT & DON'T COME BACK!"

Patrick threw up his hands in mock surrender and said, "I know I am not wanted anymore, the party's over, time to buzz off, time to get lost."

He heard, rather than saw, Bernice crying softly. Grandpa went towards the kitchen table where George was wiping his eyes, then placed a white envelope on the table, then the two pairs of keys on top of it, tied together with white string. He whispered something into George's ear, then turned back to Patrick, who started to sing:

"We'll meet again...don't know where...don't know when...But I know... we'll meet... again... Some ...sunny...day..."

And then another song: "I'll... be... seeing... you... In... all... our... familiar... places... All... day... through..."

Then Patrick's voice broke & he started to cry uncontrollably. Grandpa led him out through the kitchen doorway.

Behind them, they heard Assumpta burst into tears loudly.

Chapter 5

Ambrose Reappears...

__________________________________________

After James got Patrick into his car, he went over to see Kathleen & said, "Good-Morning, Kathleen, how are you?"

She replied, "Fine, thanks, How are you, James?"

He replied, "Fine too, thanks, I'm taking Patrick hunting this morning. It's about time he learns this hobby, can put some food on our table too. Also, there is a row between Patrick & Assumpta this morning & we have moved out of the pub. Only the two of them really know the reason. It has been nice knowing you & we'll come back to visit someday."

In the car, James explained to Patrick, "Kathleen is very kind to us, you must not forget her. She is very sympathetic to your illness."

They drove along till they came to a picnic area, got out their provisions & chatted. Grandpa said, "It is a surprise that Assumpta just drops your loving friendship like a hot potato, as if it means nothing to her."

Patrick replied, "I get that notion also, maybe her father has been bugging her to dump me, regarding my asthma, that is why he did not intervene."

Grandpa asked, "So, Patrick, do you still want to win her back, despite the uphill battle that faces you?"

Patrick replied, "I love her, Grandpa, I want her back at all costs, there's no other woman for me but Assumpta, and I don't care how long it takes. I appreciate any suggestions you have."

Grandpa says, "So you do, eh? I have a few ideas, let's eat & I'll tell you all about them."

After their breakfast, Grandpa said, "The house in Wicklow is an inheritance to you
from your maternal Grandpa, "Old Joe". Every month, after collecting the rent from the tenants, he went to stay at Fitzgerald's to enjoy the fresh air & wonderful scenery. There he saw Assumpta, such a pretty little girl. He told me to bring you, Patrick, at the appropriate age to stay here for awhile for you two to get acquainted. Little do we know, we are here for seven long years.

"Old Joe was a Martial-Arts Self-Defence instructor for the Cilldargan Gard Training Academy and he taught you everything he knew, & also playing chess & bridge, remember? He thought that these games build your character & strategy through life. All the rent from the house, I have put into a savings account for a rainy day. Now for a plan of action, regarding Assumpta, this is what you have to do..."

Grandpa James said, "Patrick, today is the first day of the rest of your life."

___________________________________________________________________

It was a sunny Saturday when Patrick was driving the Cilldargan Mail's van to BallyK to deliver a large parcel. He idly checked the rear view mirror & noticed a Garda patrol car behind him.

The blue top light was not flashing. He drove over the bridge, past Fitzgerald's, glanced at it, but saw the door was closed. Suddenly, everything flashed back, brought a tear to his eye.

He stopped & parked the van, switched on the amber (4-Way) warning lights, just past the Garda house and the Garda car stopped just behind his van. "Not too close, I hope," he thought, "I need to open the back-doors."

He noticed somebody coming out of Kathleen's, but could not see the person's face slowly walking down the stone steps. As the Gard exited his car, Patrick recognised him as Ambrose. He turned the corner at the back of his van & came face to face with the Gard, who was fishing for his pencil in his pocket with his right hand, while holding his paper pad with his left hand. He said to Patrick, without looking up, "Excuse me, Sir, do you know you are in violation of Traffic # ..."

Patrick inquired LOUDLY, "AND WHAT WOULD THAT BE, GARD EGAN?"

The Gard looked up, recognition flooding back, startled speechless, then smiled. "PATRICK! I haven't seen you for so long, how are you?"

Ambrose, standing tall & slim in front of him, in splendid Gard uniform, Patrick was taken aback. Before he could answer...

"Ambrose? Is that you?"

Startled, they both turned to that direction and saw Assumpta, looking very beautiful and radiant.

She was smiling sweetly at Ambrose UNTIL Patrick, in his mailman uniform, appeared, coming into view, and her smile disappeared.

Ambrose walked to her, extending his hand. "How are you, my dear, may I say, you look absolutely stunning & charming. Are you still living here? I hear you are in university. Perhaps, after my duty ends, we can have tea together?"

She blushed & nodded. Before Patrick could approach her, she turned on her heel and walked away.

Surprised, he wanted to chase after her, but remembered the Gard situation. He turned back to Ambrose. "Now, what was that all about? You going to tea with her & she won't even acknowledge my existence."

Ambrose was all business, pointing, indicating the mail van's wheels were too far from the walkway's kerb.

Before he could fill out the ticket, Patrick said, "Hold it, the traffic act #... said, 'Only mail vans & Garda cars CAN park like that', check it out, Gard Egan, before your superior gives you hell."

Gard Egan went back into his car, rummaged in the glove compartment, took out a booklet, flipped through it, read some pages, came out, & said, "Are you delivering a large parcel? by hand-truck? the measurements being ...by...by...? OK. Yes, the mail-van needs the ground space clearance to move the parcel, onto the hand-truck, yet not blocking the moving traffic. Excellent. Thanks for reminding me. Good-day to you, Sir, & have a nice day."

Just then, he heard, "Patrick & Ambrose, welcome back!"

It was Kathleen, coming down the stairs, shielding her eyes against the sun.

They both shook hands with her, smiling, exchanging pleasantries. Then she went back into her store to attend to a customer.

Gard Egan nodded to Patrick & went into the Gard house.

The parcel was very large, as Patrick was lowering it onto the hand-truck, through the hinge gap of the door, he saw Assumpta looking his way, between two curtains.

The package was bulky but not really heavy. He tied heavy twine all around the package & the hand-truck. He locked all the van's doors & pushed the hand-truck ahead of him. He turned into a side road. The recipient was an elderly lady, who asked Patrick to carry it up for her. He then said, "I'll have to open the package,
it says here there are three items inside, otherwise it cannot turn the corner."

Turned out it was a collapsed baby bed and two bedside tables. He made three trips up and down the stairs. He peeked out the upstairs window at Fitzerald's. Assumpta was still standing there. He whipped open the curtains. Caught by surprise, Assumpta closed her curtains. The old lady invited him for tea but he declined, saying he had other deliveries to make & said, "Good-bye."

He ran back to the main road, pulling the hand-truck, crossed the road & tried to enter Fitzgerald's. But the door was locked. He knocked, again & again, & SHOUTED, "Assumpta, Assumpta, please open the door, please, Assumpta." Getting no answer, he went to the back, did the same thing, looked into the kitchen, he could see her sitting there, with her head, on her crossed arms, on the kitchen table, facing the front door. He called again, but she ignored him.

He felt so sad and SHOUTED through the gap between the two back-doors, "Do you want me to break down this door? Please speak to me, Assumpta, I beg of you, please speak to me, I'm so sorry I hurt your feelings, I feel so unworthy to be your friend, I've hurt you so much."

Then he felt somebody tap his shoulder, it was Gard Egan, "Sir, you are breaking the peace, somebody has called in an alarm. Now you must stop this and leave, or I'll have to handcuff you & charge you with an offence. Do you understand?"

"I'm sorry, Gard Egan, I'll leave. It's obvious the lady does not want to be disturbed."

Both men walked out of the laneway, connecting the main street & the backyard of the pub. Patrick was dragging the hand-truck. They were crossing the street, when a woman's voice called out, "Patrick, is that you? I'm Bernice, remember me? Please come & visit Fitzgerald's soon."

Patrick looked up at the second floor window and said, "Good morning Bernice, how are you? Long time no see. I'll surely come back soon to see you both. Excuse me, I've more deliveries to make."

Then he drove the van in the direction of the school. He wondered if he knew any of the teachers. He parked it near the front door, turned on the amber flashers again, took his parcel & clipboard & went throught the front door. Unknown to him, Assumpta had already phoned Brendan & asked him NOT to divulge anything to Patrick. And she also watched the van stop at the school.

"Good morning, Madam, I've a parcel for this school, I need a signature from the Headmaster."

Patrick did not know her. She said to him, "Please wait here." She dialed a number, turned to him and said, "He'll see you now, please come this way."

She knocked & a man's voice called, "Come in," from within. She opened the door, he said thanks, & went in.

As he did, he put the clip-board under the parcel, turned it to face the recipient, then said, "Good morning, Sir, I have a parcel that needs a signature," looked up, in surprise, "Mr. Kearney...Headmaster? Wow, this is indeed a pleasant surprise."

Brendan indicated a chair & said to his secretary who was standing near the door, "It's OK, Georgina, Patrick is a recent student here."

Both men shook hands & expressed the usual pleasantries. Brendan continued, "Everybody was sad when James & you disappeared. Grandpa phoned me to say you and Assumpta had a falling-out & she practically threw you out. I lost my appetite for two days, couldn't eat nor sleep. As you know, you two have been my favourite students. You also have excellent grades. I am disappointed you have not applied for university."

Patrick replied, "Thanks for the vote of confidence. Grandpa already told me when I was young that the stress of university would be quite severe. And then, there's the almighty dollar which he does not have. His pension cheque can only go so far towards food & the rent at the pub."

Patrick suddenly stopped talking, eyes eyes filled with tears, looked down, his voice shaking, "I miss Assumpta so much, thinking of her day & night, cannot eat nor sleep. I have lost my best friend, somebody I still hold in such high regard. I have a lot of respect for her. Yet I have not expressed nor tell her how I feel. I am afraid to let the words "I love you" interfere with her studies. So I keep quiet... and look what happens? I am BARRED. She does not accept my apologies. I have tried to explain, but she does not listen. Now it is too late. Grandpa tells me she is in university."

Brendan handed a box of tissues to Patrick and said, "Oh, it's never too late. Now you are older & wiser. By the way, how's Grandpa? How's the hunting? Where are you staying nowadays?"

Patrick replied, "I'm living in Wicklow and Grandpa's in a senior citizens' home, in Cilldargan, sometimes puttering around the garden, his knees are quite weak. He can't do much anymore. I see him once a week, sometimes bringing him for walks, using a walker, or bringing him out to lunch or dinner. He tells me he hopes to visit BallyK for old times' sake, but he is also afraid that it brings back too many bad memories for me. So he never insists. I still hunt, just to keep the skill. Oh, look at the time, we must meet for a drink someday, OK?"

Brendan signed the clipboard & handed it back to Patrick. "Sure, that'll be nice. I hope to see you at Fitzgerald's. Please come & visit us soon, Patrick. You are always welcome here.

"Thanks Brendan," Patrick said, extending his hand. They shook & he left, closing the door.

He came out of the school, checked the time & realized it was lunch-time. He thought, "There is no time like the present." He drove his van into the Fitzgerald's parking lot, locked all the doors & windows, went to the pub, checked the opening times on the door, turned the knob & went in, the tingle of a bell went off above him, he took a table at a window, hung his jacket on the chair. There was nobody at the bar, he was the first one there, within the lunch period. As he waited, he could hear a familiar woman's voice in the kitchen, talking on the phone, "How did he look to you? Does he look sincere? Oh, he did? Did he mention his home? Where is it? How about his family...? Any girl-friends? Oh, I...uh...I..better start lunch, somebody's already come in, 'bye, see you tonight? OK?"

She hung up, and Assumpta came out of the kitchen. Patrick & Assumpta stared at each other. He said, "Assumpta, please forgive me, I'm so sorry. I missed you so much. I regretted everything I've said. Is there any way I can make it up to you?"

She turned around & went back into the kitchen, then closed the door & locked it. He then went to the door & knocked. No answer. He continued, "After we parted company, I was angry but regretted my words & actions. I had no right saying what I did. I asked Grandpa to give me advice and he said it would be best I apologized in person.

"I was reluctant, fearing it would rouse up all your pain that you've had and I didn't want to make you more angry at me. Please, Assumpta, it has been a few years, please forgive me & let's talk, let's start all over again. It's never too late to be friends again. That's all I ask, just to be friends again, talk about the good old days when we were young of eleven and twelve years old. We've had fun, didn't we."

There's no answer from the other side of the door.

Feeling tears coming on, he turned back & was shocked to see Assumpta & Bernice, seated on the bar-stools, staring at him. He forgot about the back staircase.

He smiled sheepishly & greeted both ladies, "Good afternoon, ladies, what will you have?"

Bernice smiled & greeted him back. But Assumpta got off her bar-stool, went & opened the pub door, where Brendan had been blocking the usual patrons from entering.

Patrick cheerfully greeted Brendan, "How are you, Sir, I'm glad to see you again. What will you have, the usual?"

Assumpta came to the bar & said to Patrick, pointing to the door, "Out! You are BARRED! You are not welcome here! Go now!" Going to the phone, she picked it up & dialled, "I'm calling Gard Egan. You better not be here when he arrives."

Patrick picked up his jacket from the chair, said, "Good-bye everybody," & walked out.

Next he drove to Dr.Ryan and waited till he was free.

Patrick said, "Dr. Ryan, I'm so happy to see you. How are you? I want to thank you for suggesting to Grandpa that I join the mail service, the fresh air really helps. I get so few asthma attacks now and usually quite mild ones."

Dr. Ryan said, "I'm glad to see you also, how's Grandpa? Are you staying in the vicinity?"

Patrick replied, "I'm living in Wicklow now. Grandpa is fine, thanks for your concern, he's living in a senior citizen's home in Cilldargan. He wants to visit BallyK again, to see old friends, like yourselves, I wonder if the trip may be too much for him?"

Dr. Ryan said, "Oh no, just make him comfortable, with blankets to cover himself from his shoulders to his feet, with a pillow behind his head & plenty of snacks & water, he may get hungry & thirsty. Sometimes such a DAY TRIP will rejuvenate his spirits no end.."

"Thanks, Doctor, I appreciate your good advice, as always. I better be going, I still have more parcels to deliver yet. Oh, I forgot, Assumpta just BARRED me, any chance for you to put in a good word for me? Thanks." They shook hands & he left.

Later that day, when he arrived back at the mail depot in Cilldargan, his supervisor called him into the office. His request to get a transfer to A FIXED ROUTE was approved, to deliver mail, parcels, packages to BallyK, Wicklow & the surrounding villages. His duties would be to pick up mail in the van, drive back to BallyK, sort into batches & deliver by bicycle because of the many narrow footpaths connecting some streets.

With all his seniority, good conduct plus vast knowledge of the surrounding countrysides and the high responsibility with serving such a large area, he was promoted to supervisor.

Patrick was so happy, he treated many of his friends to drinks at their local pub. "At least, I am welcome at this pub," he thought.

Nowadays, Patrick drove a larger mail truck, newly painted, with the large words "SUPERVISOR" painted on the outside. Inside, there were different compartments, marked with different names of each village. He had to deliver every item of his daily load everyday.

On Saturday, he saved the last package for Fitzgerald's, arriving around 6pm. He parked right in front of the pub. He knocked on the closed door, & called out, "MAIL CALL."

Brendan opened the door, winked to Patrick & said, "Please come in."

Patrick replied, "I'm sorry, Sir, I cannot, I've been BARRED from this pub, and this item needs a signature. Please send the proprietor, with proper identification, out here to sign it."

Brendan went in & relayed the message. He heard Assumpta shouting, "Oh! For the love of Mike, I need ID? And his truck is so big, he's blocking my patrons from coming in, & Brendan, you are saying he's a mail service supervisor? We'll see about that!"

Meanwhile Brendan had opened both doors, and motioned the others to join him. There were Dr.Ryan, Padraig, Siobhan.

Assumpta came to the door, huffily, followed by Brendan. She had a mobile phone in her hand & demanded, "What do you mean I need an ID to sign?..." She looked up & saw Patrick in his mail service supervisor uniform. Ignoring him, she pressed a button on the mobile, and spoke into the mouth-piece, "Gard Egan, please come over to Fitzgerald's, I want to complain about a large truck preventing my patrons from coming into my establishment."

Gard Egan, came running, putting on his hat. He spoke directly to the driver, "Patrick, you'll have to move your truck, you are blocking..."

"Gard Egan, Sir, you'll address me by my title, which is mail service supervisor Carver, says so here on my official uniform, when I'm on duty, delivering a parcel for the Cilldargan mail service. My official directive, is to deliver every item, before I can return this official mail service truck back to the Cilldargan mail service depot.

"I have every right to park here, Traffic Code #...to deliver official letter, parcel, and/or package, with the appropriate postage stuck, on the top right hand corner, & this is an official registered parcel. And, since this is a registered item, I need this, uh, let's see now..." And he took out a small torch, turned it on, shone onto the addressee, "Miss Assumpta Fitzgerald to let me see her personal identity card and/or passport. And then, I'll let her sign on this clip-board, then I can hand over this registered parcel, addressed to her name, at this address."

Assumpta was beside herself, looking at her watch, "OK, I don't have either piece of ID here. They are in the safety deposit box in the bank." The supervisor said, "Hold on please, Madam, let me get you a registered mail pick-up card, good for two weeks, before it expires."

He opened the truck door, climbed into the cab, turned on the dome light, opened the glove compartment, took out a card, wrote something on it, double-checked, then climbed back down. closed the door, then handed the card to Assumpta.

He said, "There you are, Madam, this card is good for two weeks, within these office hours. Good-night, Madam." Then he got into his truck & drove off.

Brendan saw that Assumpta was nearly in tears, so he put his arm around her shoulders & guided her into the kitchen. Padraig helped to close the two doors of the pub. Brendan stood near the closed kitchen door. Assumpta sat down, bowed her head & started to cry.

Bernice came over and said, "What's the matter, sweetie?"

Assumpta responded, "I'm sorry Mom, everytime I see Patrick, I lose control. I miss him so much, I can't stand it anymore. That was him, wearing the uniform of a mail office supervisor. He was so cold & business-like. He used to be so warm & tender before." Then she looked up at Brendan and said, "What can I do to win him back, while still being a lady that I am?"

Brendan thought for awhile, then said, "I'll have to sleep on it & let you know, OK?"

Chapter 6

Niamh Appears...

____________________________________

Patrick was making his delivering rounds near a supermarket, when he heard an old lady screaming for help. He looked in that direction and saw a young man struggling to remove a handbag from her. Patrick sprinted over there & knocked him out cold.

Somebody called the Gard, who came & handcuffed the crook. Patrick then gave his name & a short statement, as a witness, then left.

The next day, his name was in the headlines:

"Mailman Patrick Carver caught crook robbing elderly lady" in the local newspapers. He thought, "I hope Assumpta sees it in university. This can remind her of me."

Two days later, he was in a bank, when three hooded men came in, two with handguns, & one with a cricket bat. They ordered everybody to one side. When Patrick did not move, the one with the bat tried to hit him. Within half a minute, all the robbers were disarmed. The Gards came & handcuffed them. Again, he gave his name & a short statement, then left.

The next day, the same newsapaper stated:

"Mailman, Patrick Carver, went into the bank to deposit his pay-check, came out with 3 crooks, 2 real handguns & a cricket bat."

That evening, driving home, his mobile rang. It was Brendan who invited him to Fitzgerald's for a pint. When he went in, he was still in uniform. Everybody greeted him in great spirits. Patrick took a table near the window to watch the traffic. Soon he saw Brendan ride up on his bicycle then park it by leaning it on the wall. He came in, ordered a pint, an orange juice & a plate of sandwiches, then came & shook hands with Patrick.

The first thing he said to Patrick was, "Why are you taking such risks? These crooks have real handguns. Aren't you afraid of dying? Think of your poor Grandpa. Think of us, we all love you."

Patrick replied, "I'm fine, thanks, & how are you Brendan? Thanks for your concerns. Regarding your questions, you forgot Assumpta, she does not care about me anymore. This is the only way I can remind her of me, free advertising, besides, who cares if I kick the bucket? Grandpa has Alzheimer's disease, he does not recognize me anymore, he made his will a few years ago, leaving everything to me. And I have also made my will, since I'm on the road all the time. The mail office encourages this practice. Who's in charge here nowadays?"

Brendan said, "First thing first, so you have a DEATH WISH, which is crazy. What if you do get shot, but don't die, but become an invalid. Isn't that worse than your present situation? There must be a better way out of this mess. You must listen to me. Do you understand me?"

Patrick replied, "Yes, I do, loud & clear. I know you always have my best interests at heart. I promise I won't be so reckless anymore, thanks. Who's this new lady behind the bar?"

Brendan answered, "Bernice & one other lady take turns bartending, Assumpta comes back every weekend, arriving Saturday morning or Friday evening & leaving Sunday afternoon. If you are adventurous, you can try to pick her up at the bus depot, but her mom usually drives her to & fro."

Brendan continued, "Maybe I can speak to Bernice to rouse some support for you & Assumpta to be alone, perhaps after closing hours with Bernice in attendance, OK? Or, maybe ask Bernice to be late in picking up her daughter, OK? Today Bernice is working days, so you won't see her tonight. I'll ask her at lunch tomorrow, how about you, want to join me?"

Patrick said, "Tomorrow, I definitely can, it's my day off, I'm working this coming Saturday, so that will disallow me picking up Assumpta, what time can I pick you up at the school? Oh, where's George?"

Brendan replied, "Upstairs, he seldom comes downstairs, has all his special meals upstairs." Then Brendan whispered, "Part of his stomach was removed due to a growth, but it was benign. Now he feels sorry for himself, gets his wife to pamper him and see his loving daughter, once a week. And I would advise you against visiting him, Bernice says he is quite a grouch. I still remember what you told me when Assumpta threw you out, he did not raise any objections. Bernice was telling me he could have asked you & Assumpta to sit down with him & talk this out. Of course Bernice has no say in this matter. What a shame!"

Patrick then asked, "How is Assumpta's love life? Dozens of boys follow her around?"

Brendan looked at his watch, then said, "Surprisingly, not one yet. Bernice says there are countless 'proposals' for friendship, etc, but her famous excuse is she wants to concentrate on her studies. Who knows, maybe she still pines away for you?" Then he winked and said, "You were her closest probable boy-friend, if only both of you communicated better, than to just fly off the handle, like she did."

The next day at Fitzgerald's, Bernice met Brendan & Patrick, had lunch over drinks & talked about the good old days when Patrick & Assumpta made such a handsome couple, like two peas in a pod. Both Bernice & Brendan suggested Patrick make Assumpta jealous as a way of turning her around. Bernice said, "If there's no reaction if you bring another girl here, then you can give up Assumpta & get on with your life. If there is a reaction, no matter how small, it will encourage you to be more agressive next time."

Then they parted company with promises to meet again next Wednesday to compare notes. Patrick was thinking, "They are so nice to me. I feel better already."

The next day, at the mail sorting plant, Patrick saw a young lady tacking a piece of paper onto the notice board. He walked over & read it aloud: "No car to use, need ride to BallyK, every Friday evening after shift ends & from BallyK, every Monday morning, before shift begins. Will share petrol & good conversation. Please phone mobile of Niamh, at ...and leave a message, thanks."

Patrick extended his hand & said, "Hi, my name is Patrick, I can help you, Niamh. I'll keep your notice paper for the phone number, just in case I'm late, I'll give you my mobile # also. As for this coming Friday, what time does your shift end? I'm parked in the parking lot of "C" gate. Please wait for me near the gate house."

Friday came, as they were driving off, Patrick said, "I haven't seen you before, I grew up there, whereabouts are you in BallyK? I can drop you off at your door or do you prefer a nearest road intersection?"

She replied, "My father just bought a house in BallyK. I'm still living with relatives in Cilldargan which is still closer to work. I've told my father about you being so kind to drive me, he wants to buy you a drink, at Fitzgerald's, do you know the place? You do? Good."

They were still wearing their mail service uniforms & entered the pub together. Immediately, he saw Assumpta being introduced to a middle-aged man by Ambrose in civvies, who was sitting next to him.

Assumpta nodded & smiled at them both, then turned & saw Niamh & greeted her warmly, "Good evening, what can I get you?"

Niamh greeted her back , smiled & said, "Light beer, please."

Then Assumpta saw Patrick, her face changed dramatically, looked away, went to Brendan, motioned him into the kitchen. Brendan followed her in, closed the door, just in time & saw Assumpta burst into tears.

Earlier in the day, Niamh's father made dinner reservations for four people at Fitzgerald's, but all the tables were booked by then. So they were told to sit at the bar instead. Niamh went to her father, kissed him & said, "Hello, Dad, I want you to meet Patrick. He promises to drive me back & forth every weekend."

Mr. Quigley stood up, turned to Patrick & extended his hand. "Patrick, it is indeed a pleasure. You are very kind to offer to help Niamh. We appreciate this very much, please call me Brian."

Patrick & Brian shook hands. Patrick said, "I'm very pleased to meet you, Brian." Then he greeted Ambrose & shook hands with him also, saying to Brian & Niamh, "Ambrose, Assumpta and I were in school together, taught by Brendan. There he is." He pointed as Brendan came out of the kitchen, followed by Assumpta bringing a glass of light beer to Niamh. Patrick then introduced Niamh to Brendan, saying, "We work together at the mail sorting plant."

Brendan replied loudly, "Lucky you, she's quite pretty & single, I presume?"

Niamh blushed deep red. Assumpta saw it & promptly went back into the kitchen.

Ambrose spoke up, "Oh, Brendan, please stop that. Can't you see you are embarrassing the young lady?"

Patrick thought, "I wonder which young lady Ambrose is talking about."

After some more small talk, Bernice came out & greeted everybody, then said, "Brian, dinner is ready, shall I serve now?" Brian nodded.

During the dinner, Brian was very happy, and congratulated himself, "Ambrose is a Gard & Niamh's friend is a mail service supervisor. His one and only daughter is in good hands all right."

During the dinner, Assumpta was a no-show, leaving Brendan to tend the bar. After the dinner, Patrick stood up & said to Brian, "Thank you, Brian, for a wonderful & delicious dinner. I have to work tomorrow, so I'll bid you all good-night now." Everybody said good-bye & he left.

Every morning, Patrick went into Kathleen's store to pick up his daily quota of sandwiches, paid her & put the sandwiches into his lunch box, where his Thermos flask of ice-water sat. This particular day, he was glancing outside often & she saw the anxiety on his face.

She asked, "What's wrong, my dear?"

Patrick replied, "I've promised to drive a friend to work every Monday morning. I hope Niamh has not forgotten."

She thought for awhile. "Niamh? Oh, I see who you mean, Brian's daughter, she's quite pretty and taller than Assumpta also, here's your change, Patrick." Then she gestured. "Would that be her, then?"

Patrick looked, and replied, "Yes, Niamh is here, thanks Kathleen, I'll see you tomorrow, 'bye."

He ran down the stone steps & pointed to his car, so she did not have to walk extra steps & double back later. They got in & she apologised, "I'm sorry, I get lost, coming out of the house, I turn left instead of right."

Patrick replied, "No apologies neccessary, think nothing of it. Now is still summer. I can pick you up closer to your house in the winter, would you like that?"

Niamh replied, "That'll be great, thanks."

Patrick said, "You are welcome, how was your weekend? Did your father show you around the village?"

Niamh answered, "Oh, we had a grand time, my father ordered two picnic baskets from Fitzgerald's & the six of us went for a long walk on the other side of the Angel River, such fantastic scenery."

Patrick asked, "Six of you? Do I know them also?"

Niamh replied, "Yes, you do, there's my dad & I, Ambrose, Brendan, Bernice & Assumpta. Everybody was talking & laughing except Assumpta. She seemed pre-occupied & never once smiled. We wanted to invite you also, but Brendan said you needed the rest, your mid-week day off is for attending school. Are you still studying?"

Patrick answered, "Oh, yes, as a supervisor, I have many subjects to go through. And then, when I pass all of them, I can apply for more important jobs like superintendent, or urban planning, etc, oh, here we are, time to earn our daily bread, I'll see you again, on Friday evening, good-bye."

Chapter 7

Leo Appears...

_____________________________

It was a dismal Saturday morning when Patrick mounted the stone steps of Kathleen's store. Patrick thought, "I hope it does not rain, I can finish my delivery runs much faster if it is a nice, dry day." After his purchase, he slung his lunch-bag over his shoulder & said good-bye to Kathleen, then went down the steps.

He heard the distinct sound of somebody trying to start a stubborn engine. Changing his direction, he went into the laneway to see if he could help. He gently knocked on the glass of the driver's side door, then looked inside the car. He discovered it was Bernice and he opened the door & said, "Bernice, please let me help, otherwise no more battery left, the way you are doing it."

Bernice got out & said, "Thanks, Patrick, I'm glad you are here. I have to go pick-up Assumpta and this car won't start."

He opened the hood, looked at the engine & said, "Bernice, looks like you need a tune-up, the engine looks really tired, with so much dust, rust & dirt all over. I suggest you call Padraig & have it towed to his garage. Meanwhile you can phone your daughter to take the bus home, no need to wait in vain."

Bernice answered, "I've been calling Assumpta, but there's no answer, either she forgot to charge her phone battery or her phone is OFF."

Patrick then suggested, "Please tell me where she is waiting for you and I'll pass by there on the way to work & relay the message to her."

Bernice replied, "That's a great idea, she's waiting at ...& hold on, I have a shopping list for her, just ask her to buy whatever she can carry. Thanks Patrick, I appreciate your help."

When he got there, he did not see Assumpta waiting anywhere. So he just parked at a convenient spot, got out then stretched his tired muscles. Then he decided to do some light jogging back & forth, while looking around. He passed a low-slung red foreign sports car, with its engine running, he smelled raw petrol & saw smoke spewing out of its exhaust pipe.

Just out of curiosity, he sauntered up to the driver's side car door & realized the bottom of the window was only at his knees' level. So he stooped down & said to the driver, "Good morning, may I touch your car? I think your engine is missing."

The driver looked up at Patrick, smiled, & said, "Surely you can, but what do you mean the engine's missing, it is running fine to me."

Patrick placed his hand on the fender, then nodded, then said, "It's running very rough, one of your cylinders is not firing, therefore the raw petrol is ejected, along with the hot exhaust gas, you are risking a muffler backfire, which may blow off the muffler & also damage your gas tank. You should get it checked out as soon as possible. Good-bye."

Patrick resumed his light jogging, checked his watch, then went to the sports car again, stooped down again & said to the young male driver, "Excuse me please, have you seen a young lady waiting around here, her mom in BallyK ..."

"Patrick, is that you?" Patrick stood up immediately, then turned around but did not see anybody.

He said, "That's funny, I definitely heard my name."

"In here," Assumpta said, "Please come over to my side of the car."

Patrick rushed over & stooped down again, then said, "I'm glad to find you, how are you today, Assumpta?"

She replied, "I'm fine thanks, & yourself?"

He replied, "I'm fine, too, thanks, your Mom's car cannot start, & your phone is OFF, she says for you to help her do some shopping & buy what you can carry, then take the bus home. I have to work today, here's the shopping list, good-bye now." Then he waved to both people & left.

Patrick thought it was strange he did not see Assumpta, when he spoke to the driver. He thought maybe she covered herself, anyway his back hurt, having to stoop so low, he was not expecting a front passenger. He was also surprised she was so friendly, maybe trying to impress her boyfriend.

More than an hour later, his truck was loaded & ready for "take-off" (mailmen's term). He drove on the road to BallyK. He was glad he closed all his truck's cargo windows before leaving. The weather turned dark & it started to rain. He turned on the windshield wipers & the full head-light & tail-light system, he wanted to see & be seen, the road was so narrow, changed to a lower gear & settled down to a long wet drive.

Soon, a long, straight, lonely stretch of road presented itself. As he turned into this road, he saw something on the side of the road, a dark blob, with the four-way flashers ON. As his truck's headlights were reflected back to him, he realized it was a red sports car, stopped on the shoulder, completely out of the traffic flow.

As he drew near, he saw there was no smoke from the tail-pipe. He stopped fully on the shoulder, behind the car, then turned on his four-way flashers. He pressed the horn & the driver came out, then ran up to Patrick who cranked his window down. "What's the problem, Jack?" Patrick asked, attempting some humour.

"The name's Leo & I need your help. My engine just stalled. It will not start again."

Patrick replied, "Of course not, the engine is flooded. You need a tow truck & a master mechanic to fix it, a big expensive job. I can phone Padraig to bring his tow-truck now, if you like. What do you say, Leo? You & your friend can wait here for him."

Leo asked, "It's better if you can drive us to BallyK, then Padraig can drive me back here. She has bought raw food for her mom to cook. It may spoil while waiting for Padraig."

Patrick said, "I cannot help in the method you like, because there is only one passenger seat available, for one of you, and I cannot carry passengers in the rear cargo space, because that's what the Irish Traffic Act dictates. Why don't you discuss it with your girl-friend & let me know? Time's wasting & I still have to deliver mail today."

Leo went, then came back, said, "She's getting her food, then you drive her in, OK? Promise me you'll be a gentleman, alright?"

Patrick replied, "Don't worry, the three of us went to school together, Assumpta, Gard Egan & I. Now I'll phone for Gard Egan & Padraig. You go help her bring the food, put on the foot-rest, in front of the seat, then you help her up, if she is wearing a skirt, I'll turn my face around, OK? One more thing, you see this piece of paper? Please write down your name, address, phone #, then sign at the bottom, then give me it back to me...this is for my superior to let them know I have been helping you and delaying the mail delivery, thanks, Leo."

First he phoned Padraig, then he phoned Ambrose to give all the details of where to find Leo's car. Meanwhile, he saw Leo manhandle some plastic bags to his passenger side, then opened the truck door, put them in. Patrick turned his face, when Leo helped Assumpta, wearing a skirt, up onto the front passenger side.

Patrick asked, "Can I turn my face back yet, since you are wearing a skirt? Please put on your seat belt."

Assumpta replied, "Yes, you can, thanks." Patrick turned back & saw Leo, still holding the door open.

"Leo," Patrick said, "if the four-way flashers fade, be sure to stand outside the car, with a white shirt to wave, in the dark, they may not see you, OK, I'll deliver your lady friend safely to her door. Don't worry & don't look so sad, I'm a perfect gentleman & I'm not about to change. You may close the door now."

He started the engine, turned off the 4-way flashers, turned on the full light system, the windshield wipers, the windshield defoggers & adjusted the heating system, then changed gear & drove off. He said, "No heat for your feet because that's where the food is."

After driving awhile, he turned & looked at her. She looked straight ahead.
He said, "You are still very pretty. Leo is a lucky man. Today you are how I always remember you, from days gone by. Why don't we let bygones be bygones, and be friends again, surely you can't be mad at me forever."

There was no answer from her, then she said, "Don't push your luck, just because you are driving me in, does not mean you are doing me a favour, it's just you are doing mom a favour. If it weren't for the food, I'd gladly wait with Leo. And don't mess with Leo, he's a very jealous man!"

Patrick thought for awhile, then said, "Aww, ain't that a shame! You should have let Leo mess me up first, then tell me later. Anyway, how about un-barring me, so that I can enjoy a pint in the pub. You know how I enjoy the ambience & food of that pub. Brendan & I want to play chess and/or bridge if we can find two other people. What do you say, Assumpta, pretty, pretty PLEASE?"

She answered, "Let me think it over... Maybe yes, but on one condition, OK? You are NOT to address me, NOT AT ALL, do not talk to me, do not ask me any questions, just answer when spoken to. For instance, I say, 'What can I get you?' You say, 'Light beer, please,' Then I bring it & say, 'Here you are, that will be ...half-a -pound.' Then you pay, then I say, 'Thanks.' Remember, no small talk, just plain business, you order food, then sit down, then I bring food, you pay & that's it...Promise?"

Patrick nodded & said, "OK, it's a deal, shall we shake hands on it?"

She replied, "No need, if you waver from this agreement, I'll just bar you again. Can you make this contraption go faster? You still have to deliver mail."

He said, "Thanks for reminding me. We'll be arriving soon. After I saw you early this morning, I phoned Bernice to tell her your friend was driving you in. Then, before we left Leo, I also phoned your mom again, she was getting anxious, to tell her you will be driven in by mail truck & I also phoned Brendan to help you down, since you are wearing a skirt. I thought of all the details, so you rest easy. This is a truck & not a van, so it's quite high, off the ground."

Patrick added, "When you open your door, just do the opposite of what you did to get on-board, Brendan will be bracing your back while I turn my face, then when you reach the ground, pull out all the food, then slam the door, OK? Then I drive off."

After all the mail deliveries he went home, took a hot shower & settled down to a TV dinner.

On his answering machine, there was a message from Brendan, inviting him to the pub for a pint on Saturday evening and fishing on Sunday morning. There was another message from the doctor for a chess game at the pub after Sunday lunch.

He was thinking, "Do I want to visit the pub, now that Assumpta & Leo are there?"
He phoned Brendan. "Hi Brendan, thanks for the offer, for both Saturday evening & Sunday morning, it has been very tiring for me today, so I'll sleep in tomorrow. But I'll pick you up for Wednesday lunch, OK?"

Next he called the doctor, "Mum's the word, Michael, I'm not sure regarding Sunday, it has been very exhausting on Saturday, I need to sleep in, but, by all means, put your chess game & doctor's bag in your car's trunk, I'll phone you, after lunch, at the pub, thanks, Michael, 'bye."

Sunday came, Patrick woke up around 11am, cleaned up the whole house, then took a hot shower. Then he settled back on the sofa to think. During a drive recently, Niamh mentioned she was staying in a basement apartment with relatives, with all the appliances, to be near her office. By the same token, he could also rent out this house, then rent the same as Niamh in Cilldargan. The best part was, "No need to see Assumpta & Leo together on weekends."

In the pub, sitting at the bar, was the usual crowd, with Dr. Michael Ryan in the middle, finishing his coffee, right in front of Assumpta, who was drying the glasses, when his mobile rang. "Hello, PATRICK, how & where are you? I've been waiting for you, here, in the pub, pardon? Oh, I see, you are still very tired, eh? I understand, yesterday you were exhausted, oh, no problem at all, I can come & visit you now, what's that? Oh, wait, let me get a pencil, let's see now, two each sandwiches, lettuce & cheese, lettuce & ham, anything else? Cans of light beer? How many? Six, OK, I can pay for them now, 'bye."

Brendan said, "Poor guy, he left me a message, saying he was exhausted & declined a pint last night & good Sunday morning fishing. And now he wants you to bring him lunch?"

Michael replied, "I guess Patrick just wants to chat, care to come along?"

Assumpta butted in, "Michael, why don't I start a tab for Patrick, then you don't have to pay for him now, OK? Mom says he eats here regularly."

Brendan asked, "I thought you barred him, why the sudden change of policy?"

Assumpta glared at him and said, "Grow up, Brendan!"

Brendan replied, "That's no way to speak to your favourite teacher. Hold on, Michael, I'm coming along for the ride."

Niamh's mobile rang & she answered, "Hello, Patrick? Nice to hear from you, Monday morning? Sure I can leave the house 1/2 an hour earlier, I understand, the mail truck is much slower than your car, OK, see you then, 'bye."

Michael & Brendan arrived at Patrick's house & were shown to the sitting room.
After eating & drinking, the three men settled back & started talking.

Michael asked, "Are you really that tired, Patrick? You never missed a chance to see Assumpta before. Last night, Assumpta was showing off Leo, they seem to be quite compatible, even holding hands behind the bar...oh, I'm sorry, I...I...How insensitive of me.." He stopped talking when he saw tears falling down Patrick's face.

Patrick replied, "Don't blame yourself, it's OK, that is the reason why I did not go there this weekend. The reason I asked you here, is to help me decide what to do & where to go? I'm going to confide in you two, for instance: I can get a transfer to another part of Ireland or just move to Cilldargan, I can rent this house out, as before, then rent one basement apartment near the office...I've been thinking...why do I want her back, of all the stupid notions, Michael, I am impotent, with low sex drive, I can't give her a baby, and even if I can, it's asthmatic, what was I thinking? ...I'm at my wits' end, I may be pre-occupied enough to drive off a cliff & get killed...so I've decided to move from BallyK, there must be a lady out there...?"

Michael was pensive. "Yes, you are right, you can marry a rich old lady, then retire. Or you can marry a single mother with a baby, or a divorced lady with two kids, around ten years old, the list is endless...you are still young...I tend to agree with you, Cilldargan is a small city, but with multi-cultural backgrounds, think of it as a playground, aren't you a member of a gun-club & also a part-time singer in a supper club? There must be plenty of opportunities there also."

He added, "If you are really tired, lie on floor, with butt against bottom of wall, let your legs straight up on wall, let the blood flow to your head for five minutes, move your arms & legs sideways, to help the circulation, then slowly get up."

Patrick smiled. "Hey, you are right, I'm glad we have this talk, now let's play chess or do you prefer bridge? Tomorrow I'll explain to Niamh I cannot drive her anymore on the weekend."

Chapter 8

Mid-Twenties...

________________________________________

Two weeks later, Patrick began delivering mail on a different route in Cilldargan. He also rented out his house in Wicklow & took up new residence in a basement apartment, closer to his mail sorting plant. Now he could visit his Grandpa more often. On his rounds one morning, he delivered mail to a coin-operated laundramat. He went in but nobody was around, so he looked around & saw three large photos on the wall behind the counter, which had a press bell on it.

He pressed the bell & was greeted by a large, smiling lady, coming through the door, wiping her hands. After the usual pleasantries, he pointed to the photos, & remarked, "You know somebody who is an actor? Those are nice photos."

The lady replied, "Those are pictures of my son Simon, he was a Gard after graduation, then he was a combat soldier, then he entered the priesthood five years ago. His church is on ...Street, right next to the nursing home, if you have the time, why not drop in at the church? My Simon is a friendly person, he'll make you welcome."

He said thanks & left. He was jotting down the church's opening times when a voice spoke up nearby. "Good morning, my son, how are you?" He turned around & was confronted by a large, jovial priest with rosy cheeks, with extended hand.

Patrick shooks hands with him & replied, "Fine, thanks, I'm Patrick Carver, how are you, Father..."

The Priest answered, "I'm fine too, thanks, I'm Father Simon, Parish Priest for this church, I bid you welcome, do you have time for tea? This is the first time I've seen a supervisor mailman, I have here a printed brochure of all our activities & opening times, I hope you will find it useful."

Patrick nodded & put it into his pocket, then answered, "Thanks for the offer for tea, some other time perhaps, I'm new on these rounds here & I still have more deliveries to make." After work, he went home, took a shower, had a snack, then went to the nursing home, carrying the violin case.

Grandpa was being spoon-fed, while being held immobile in bed with wide strong leather straps. These restraints were neccessary due to his unruly behavior. Patrick began to play his violin, which seemed to have a soothing effect on James. The nurse smiled, nodded at Patrick, turned down the head-board light, then left. After a number of songs, James usually fell asleep. He usually sat & watched James for awhile.

He went home, phoned Brendan, saying, "I'm working now from Monday to Friday,
let me get used to this first, I'll call again." Then he settled into the new daily routine. His friends told him to make new friends, go to church regularly & partake in the activities, very good advice indeed. Soon he was volunteering, teaching, playing music and generally having fun & starting to forget his problems.

Dr. Ryan once said, "There'll always be other Assumpta Fitzgeralds in the world, always choose wisely, don't hurry or you'll regret it again."

On the weekend, Patrick was thinking, "If I keep going to Church, I'm bound to attract some single pretty ladies. I don't want another Assumpta. There must be another way out. I've reached the end of my rope."

Then he began a self-analysis, for instance, for seven long years, Assumpta & himself enjoyed a friendly relation, landlord & tenant, neither said "I love you" to each other, there was no sex, neither side made any promises or commitments. They do not owe each other, they were 'even', therefore she was justified to 'sever' the friendly connection, though a bit abruptly.

Furthermore, Brendan told Patrick regarding Assumpta's remarks that she wanted him back, suggested THREE things:

1. Assumpta wanted Brendan to tattletale to Patrick to keep his hopes up.

2. Assumpta wanted to remind Patrick's asthma might keep other ladies away.

3. Assumpta might need Patrick to be a spare husband (with a good job) in case
her future husband dumped her after the babies were born.

If these three points were her intentions... Patrick saw a way out. "I don't want to play 'second fiddle' to her future first husband, I'll 'fix her wagon', revenge is sweet."

Some months later, his Grandpa died in his sleep. Patrick had his remains cremated then scattered his ashes among the trees on the other side of the River Angel, according to James' wishes. Next Patrick made a Living Will to benefit his friends in BallyK, from the rent of his Wicklow house, after expenses, to be executed by Brendan & Michael.

Patrick phoned Brendan to make a dinner reservation for a table for four, on a Wednesday evening and to notify Michael & Bernice also. He was all smiles when he arrived.

He said, "I'm so happy to see you all again, especially after such a long absence.
I'm looking forward to the delicious food again."

After the usual pleasantries, they had dinner, after which, he announced, "I have to undergo intensive training in Belfast for the next 52 weeks, thereafter, I'll return to see all of you again. I must ask you NOT to tell Assumpta about this situation. She has her studies & Leo to contend with. Also, I have here two copies of my Living Will, to be executed by Brendan & Michael. Bernice, you have been like a mother to me. You are among five people to be included. Please read them at your home & act accordingly, thanks to you both."

Then he handed one each to Brendan & Michael. Then he saw Bernice start to weep.

He reached out, patted her hand, then said, "Now, now, Bernice, please don't cry. Think of this precious moment to be cherished, so that we may meet again, in a year's time. It's getting late, I have work tomorrow, so I bid all of you, 'till we meet again'. Good-bye." Then he shook hands with everybody & left.

A year or so later, he phoned Brendan to set up a Saturday night dinner for the same four people, knowing Assumpta would be present, behind the bar. He drove to BallyK & parked in front of Kathleen's store, in a designated parking area. Kathleen was re-arranging her merchandise on the shelves, when she heard a familiar voice.

"Good evening Kathleen, how are you?"

She turned around & was startled. "I'm fine...thanks, Patrick, Father? Father Patrick? ...I...I'm...surprised...is it really you?"

He replied, "It is really me, Kathleen, I'm glad to see you, how are things?"

She replied, "Everything's grand and I must thank you very much for the monthly cheque that I have been receiving from the trust fund. You are so thoughtful & kind to us old folks. And how are you, my dear Patrick? Are you our new priest here in BallyK?"

Patrick replied, "I'm fine too, thanks. I'm just passing through, I'm not based in this County. And I've always considered you & Bernice as my moms, Brendan & Michael as my fathers and Ambrose as my brother, me being an only child & not knowing my real parents. It is so nice seeing you again. Please take good care of yourself. You'll always be in my thoughts & prayers. I'll write & give you my new address, good-bye for now." He shook hands with her & left.

Then he walked across the road to the pub. Upon entering, he scanned the bar, noticed Assumpta facing the liquor bottles & Leo wiping the bar top, and the usual bunch at the end chatting. Leo, looked up, and said loudly, "Good evening Sir, what can I get...you...aren't...you...Patrick?...Father?...Father Patrick?"

Suddenly, there was a stunned silence. Assumpta spun around, shocked, speechless.

Brendan called out, "Father Patrick! Nice to see you again, please come this way, I've got a table reserved here, Assumpta, a lager for the Padre, please."

She did not answer but continued staring at Patrick & his black uniform. He was being congratulated heartily by the general clientele in the pub, with hugs, shaking hands, & back slapping. At that moment he felt on top of the world, smiling non-stop. Thereafter, he shook hands with Leo, exchanging pleasantries, noticed that Assumpta was no longer behind the bar. Then he walked over to the bar end for another bout of 'congratulations'.

Bernice came out of the kitchen & rushed, crying, to Patrick for a big hug.

"Patrick... I'm so happy to see you again...now...a Catholic priest? How have you been? I...we...we have been so worried about your health, in Belfast, your letters never mentioned...this pleasant surprise...Father Patrick? Are you our new priest?"

He replied, "Bernice, I'm very glad to be here & see you all again. I'm just passing through. I'm not based in this County. Shall we sit down?"

Around the table, he beamed at Bernice, Brendan & Michael, who all smiled back at him. Patrick chanced upon a glimpse of Assumpta glaring at him from the kitchen doorway.

Patrick felt good seeing Assumpta again, but he felt better knowing he was leaving.

Michael spoke, "Patrick, I'm speaking on behalf of all the beneficiaries of your Living Will, we all appreciate the monthly cheque & thanks very much for your thoughtfulness & kindness to us."

Patrick replied, "Not at all, Michael, over the years, since I was young, Grandpa James told me I could count on my unofficial fathers, Brendan & Michael, unofficial moms, Bernice & Kathleen & strange bully Ambrose as my unofficial brother. Grandpa stressed the sentence..."we are all brothers under the skin"...by the way, Brendan, have you told Ambrose I want to see him? I wonder if he has a girlfriend yet."

Brendan answered, "Yes, I have but he is attending a Gard special meeting in Cilldargan. He has requested that I thank you on his behalf regarding the monthly cheque & give you his fondest best wishes. He & Niamh have been seen holding hands, carrying a picnic basket, on the other side of the River Angel. Sometimes they are joined by Leo & Assumpta. Both couples are going strong. I'm particularly happy for Bernice, looks like I have to save up to buy a formal suit to attend their weddings."

Brendan continued, "Now, will you please tell us more regarding this sudden transformation from supervisor mailman Patrick Carver to Father Patrick Carver?"

Patrick replied, "During dessert & coffee, I'll tell you more. Right now, let me finish my favorite fried pork chop, prepared by the gourmet cook Bernice Fitzgerald, mmmmm, I've always enjoy her cooking."

After the meal, Patrick excused himself, saying he needed something from his vehicle.

A few minutes later, Leo looked up as usual, saying, "Good evening, Sir, what can I...oh...uh...Father Patrick?...What is...your title ..now?

Patrick replied, "It is still Father Patrick, only my uniform changed, I'm still a priest." Assumpta, who was stooping low, rummaging in the drawer, straightened up, looked at his new uniform, ignored him and went into the kitchen.

Sitting down at their table again, they all looked at his new uniform, with a puzzled look on their faces. Patrick explained, "I'm an Armed Forces Chaplain, in the Catholic faith, but I can do all other faith denominations too, should the need arise. As you can see, my white collar insert still fits in this special Army uniform collar."

He continued, "In the application form, I have written down, that I can play the violin & sing, I know about firearms & have been a hunter, I know the art of self-defence and a supervisor mailman walking daily long distances. I also mentioned chronic asthma, but which has greatly diminished, in adulthood. Usually, I carry two puffers on me at all times. So their personnel officer suggests that I do what I do best, sometimes to take confessions & conduct Masses, defend with firearms, & also entertain the troops, with song & music. I can keep busy & forget the past. I'm flying at 2400 (midnight) to England for more military training."

There was silence all around the table. They looked at each other and Brendan was about to say something, when the door opened. It was Ambrose asking, "Leo, have you seen any soldiers? There's a United Nations Army truck parked at Kathleen's." Assumpta came out of the kitchen & pointed, then she & Leo went to watch.

Ambrose turned to look at where she was pointing, saw three familiar faces & a soldier, wearing an Army hat & uniform, facing the other way. He walked over & said, "Excuse me, Sir, kindly tell me the reason why you are here in BallyK..."

Patrick stood up, turned & extended his hand, "Hello Ambrose, it's nice to see you again, how are you?"

Ambrose was speechless. "Patrick?...Father?...Father Patrick?...In the Army? ... I ... I'm... fine... thanks, and yourself?"

They shook hands & Patrick answered, "Fine, thanks, if you are free, draw up a chair, we can have a chat."

Ambrose got a chair, sat down and said, "Please carry on, I'll just listen in."

Patrick said, "Brendan was saying..."

Brendan said, "I was going to ask which Army, when Ambrose revealed the answer, when he said 'there's an United Nations Army truck'...so in the future you'll be with some peacekeeping force in the middle of nowhere, trying to keep the natives from killing each other?"

At this point, Bernice burst out into tears, sobbing loudly, Assumpta rushed out from behind the bar, stood next to her Mom & hugged her, saying softly, "It's alright Mom, it's OK, I'll get a pot of hot tea."

Ambrose got up & offerred Assumpta his seat, saying, "It's OK, Assumpta, you sit, I'll stand."

Assumpta looked at Leo. "Please bring a pot of hot tea." Then, glaring at Brendan, she said, "Brendan, look what you've done, please stop scaring my Mom."

Brendan replied, "Sorry, I wasn't thinking." There was an uneasy silence as everybody sipped their hot tea.

Patrick wanted to break the ice, so he took off his hat & put it on the window sill, then said, "Has anybody noticed I've shaved my head?"

Michael spoke up, "I've been wondering about that, you used to have such nice long wavy hair, did the Army make you do it?"

Patrick answered, "Oh no, I bought a rechargeable multi-voltage heavy-duty shaver & have been shaving myself bald, my moustache & beard everyday. The main reason is the lack of hot water in the morning."

Bernice, being comforted by Assumpta, suddenly looked up at Patrick. "Father Patrick, why did you join the United Nations Peacekeeping Force, it is so dangerous, I'm so worried already."

He replied, "Bernice, please don't worry, I'm not the only one doing this. I've never known my parents, I've never known my Grandmothers, my two Grandfathers taught me everything they knew. They were so good to me & yet never once complained. They are gone now & I can never repay their kindness. While growing up here, all of you have been so loving, kind & friendly towards us. That's why I used the trust fund to repay you all in perpetuity. As for myself, I need to go out there to 'give something back', to relay all the love, kindness & friendship, from all my relatives & of course, from yourselves, to others, in other parts of the world, to do my small part.

"And Bernice & all of you, I will never forget you all, and when you see the others, please give them my best wishes & fondest love. You'll make me happy by taking good care of yourselves, keep healthy. I have to leave now, I promise to write, OK?" Then he stood up, shook hands and hugged Bernice, then all the men, then added, "It's not good-bye, but ...'till we meet again'...I'm already looking forward to the next time we meet here. Brendan & Michael, will you please walk with me to the truck?"

They left the pub & went into the back of the truck, closed the doors, then Patrick told them, "I've named you two as my next-of-kins, should anything happen to me, they'll notify you two, if Bernice & Kathleen are still with you, don't let the Army announce my name anywhere & I also want my ashes scattered, among the trees, on the other bank of the River Angel, I'll be with my Grandpa, OK? Now off you go & have a stiff drink on me." Then he handed them some money.

Brendan said, "Let me tell you something about Niamh. Last Saturday, at the bar, sitting next to Ambrose, right in front of Assumpta, Niamh said, 'I haven't seen Patrick for a long time, I wonder how & where he is, I wish him well, all the ladies are crazy about him, at the sorting plant. He is such a gentleman to everybody, never a harsh & swear word from him. Someday he will be a good husband to a nice woman'...Assumpta put her hand over her mouth, went into kitchen & slammed the door closed."

Patrick was about to unlock the driver's door when Kathleen called out, "Father Patrick, it that you? You are also a soldier? Ambrose was here asking about the soldiers."

So Patrick went up the stone steps & told her the situation. When he finished, Kathleen was also crying, but later she said, "God speed, Father Patrick, may HE keep you healthy to do your job, please write & come back to see us." He shook hands & hugged Kathleen before leaving.

As he drove off, he realised he even shook hands with Leo but did not look at, shake hands nor hug Assumpta. Patrick wondered aloud, "She must be thinking, who does that IDIOT think he is? He is dressing up to be a priest soldier, going off to war-torn places."

Sometime later, they each received a letter with an emblem of United Nations, in place of a postage stamp, on the top right corner. There was no return address on the back. Everybody, including Assumpta, received their letters and they read, in part, like this:

"By the time you receive this message, I have arrived in a foreign country, for the next 5 years. During this tour of duty, I may not be able to send nor receive any letters, due to lack of postal facilities. But I assure you all, you will always be in my heart, mind & soul, I will never forget BallyK, my home sweet home."