I guess it's because they wouldn't place a bet on you reaching eighty. Not that I'd want to, you know. Getting old is much too lonely. Seen from outsi...e I have no reason to complain. I've got friends, and my children visit me often. My days are filled with activities, so why am I whining?It's because of the long, lonely nights. Alfred, my dear husband, died ten years ago, bless him. He was such a devoted lover that no woman could have wanted for better. His eagerness made me stay slim and trim. I was in some pain, but not a lot, since I was taking my meds religiously. I had been injured enough times in my life to understand the value of staying on schedule with painkillers. Consequently, I slept a great deal that evening.I had spent enough time sleeping the evening before, so that I was very hungry that last morning. I was way past ready to eat when the teenager came for us. I was ready to suggest that we get up and leave. During the twenty minute wait, Marty stayed on his fancy. I'll never forget his face." His name in Barrington. Do you remember the man who tied us up several months ago?" Yes, Mistress." They look very much alike, don't they?" Yes, Mistress. At first I thought that it WAS him. But then I realized that it wasn't. I was still frightened though." You remember that I told you that the man who came here was Peter Hotaling? And that I work with Peter at McCarthy Publishing?" Yes, Mistress." Peter looks like the man who harmed you, but he would never harm. Jerry loves beautiful blondes and you look enough like his sister, Sherry, to be her twin.”“Hey Jerry. I was sitting next to Mom and Dad, and I told them I wanted to meet you and get your autograph. When you left the stage, they all but forced me to go with them, to find Catherine. I’m so glad I came back here now. I’ve heard you on the radio dozens of times, and I love your voice ... You’re still holding my hand and I’m so nervous, I’m shaking ... OH MY LORD! Is that your sister?”I turned to.