“Of course, I will. It’ll sort of be a link between us and Karl.”
“Thanks. I want to ask you something else. Do you think I should study the way those teachers said?”
“It would be wonderful if you can manage. Why don’t you speak to them before they go on the train? They’re very nice and kind. They like to help people.”
“I will. One thing more. Books, the kind you and Karl go for—” He paused, then smiling sheepishly, said, “Maybe I’m biting off more than I can chew.”
“No. Books are wonderful. I can send them. We’ve shelves and shelves filled with them. And I’ll get the list from our librarian. You’d be surprised at the wonderful books there are, in the libraries just for the asking.”
“You see, I don’t want Karl to be ashamed of me—when he comes back—maybe famous.”
“When Karl comes back,” Judy’s voice shook a little, “we’ll have a grand reunion in Aspen!”
At the airport, Mrs. Lurie shook hands warmly with the teachers, whom she had gotten to know and like. To Fran she said, “You’re a fine driver and a kind and capable young man.”
Judy too made amends for her early indifference. “We’re like ships that pass in the night,” she told the astonished teachers, “friendly, helpful ships,” and she smiled enigmatically.
The Little Percent with its remaining passengers drove off.