We in A Sentence

    1

    A few weeks ago we were only friends, and now...

    2

    A little, why don't we go in and I'll make us some coffee?

    3

    A third of the time, we're sleeping!

    4

    After introductions we gathered around the oak table to get acquainted as more beer and wine flowed.

    5

    After leaving the town, we drove around the surrounding countryside in hopes Howie my spot one of the scenes of his other visions.

    6

    After shaking the dice again, for turns in the single bathroom, we climbed the stairs to our rooms.

    7

    Alright. We'll do it your way... but be careful.

    8

    And recognize we have a life, even if it's only by necessity; the bills keep coming and I get hungry once in a while.

    9

    And then that day we rode together.

    10

    And this man was saying we were going to the moon in a rocket ship made of metals we hadn't even invented.

    11

    Are we going to have one of these relationships where we have to constantly prove our love to each other?

    12

    Are we positive we've got this right?

    13

    Are you saying you want to proceed like we did yesterday?

    14

    As a matter of fact, I think we're on completely different planets.

    15

    As any dream sessions needed to take place in Massachusetts where Quinn's test items were now located, we decided Martha was best suited as coordinator of the event.

    16

    As eager as Betsy and I were to pursue our testing, we were out to the picture for several weeks.

    17

    As long as Quinn could place Howie in the past, we'd do everything in our power to support the effort.

    18

    As much progress as we've made, we still haven't proved his visions represent real happenings.

    19

    As soon as Howie emerged from the basement we all hurried into the living room and stood around, expectantly.

    20

    At last James Hogg said, "It's of no use; all we can do is to go home and tell the master that we have lost his whole flock."

    21

    At Martha's suggestion over coffee the next morning we decided on the public library in nearby Lynn as our destination.

    22

    At six o'clock we pulled off the highway and found a family style restaurant in a small Maryland town.

    23

    At the time, we felt so infallible in our rightness we grabbed the proverbial bull by the horns exposing ourselves to a wealth of trouble.

    24

    Aunt Paulette, (we all called her Aunt Paulie) married a real estate agent and moved to Arkansas.

    25

    Because we barely know each other.

    26

    Betsy and I agreed as we were eager to share our news with someone.

    27

    Betsy took his hand and we moved further down the sidewalk.

    28

    Betsy wants to leave by seven tomorrow morning so we won't get back too late.

    29

    Betsy was alone on the porch but as we approached, Martha opened the screen door, her arm around a frail looking man, about five-seven, who wore an off-center toupee and a fragile smile.

    30

    Betsy would be home from her road trip and together we'd take on Quinn.

    31

    Betsy, usually as nearly sympathetic as Martha, pointed out there were scads of other missing children we were neglecting.

    32

    Betsy's look repeated her plea while we all remained silent, looking to Howie.

    33

    Between Betsy's internet searching and Quinn's calculations the location we sought was found.

    34

    Between the two of us we ought to be able to carry them down to that room.

    35

    Between times we made plans for a trip to Iowa where I'd meet my in-laws for the first time and we'd firm up plans for our October wedding, to be held on Betsy's home turf.

    36

    But don't let us worry over such things, Zeb; we can't help ourselves just now, you know, and I've always been told it's foolish to borrow trouble.

    37

    But even old Jim has been saying things since we had our accident.

    38

    But finals are coming up, and we're likely to be distracted...

    39

    But I guess if we have, it's no worse than having a child out of wedlock.

    40

    But to judge what is best--conscription or the militia--we can leave to the supreme authority....

    41

    But we can't live long in this cavern, that's certain.

    42

    But we're here, all the same.

    43

    But what we do with our time after work is strictly between the two of us.

    44

    By the smug look on her face, we surmised the letter had to include the answers that were needed.

    45

    By the time we reached our apartment, both of us were exhausted wrecks.

    46

    Can we do one more before you leave?

    47

    Can we swim in it?

    48

    Can't we wait 'till tomorrow?

    49

    Does that mean we can't indulge in a little innocent affection now and then?

    50

    Each of the four knew their job and we proceeded to conduct four tests before the day was over.

    51

    Each of us maintains our own apartment, but when Betsy is in town, we spend most nights together.

    52

    Everyone back in high school figured you and Martha we're the pair.

    53

    Everyone was on edge as we began early the next day.

    54

    Everyone was tired so after perfunctory greetings over a single glass of wine for those of us drinking, we retreated to our sleeping quarters.

    55

    Explanation of our lack of success was unnecessary and we all retired for the night.

    56

    Finally we spotted a large chain store and upon entering, detected a bank of telephones near the rest rooms.

    57

    Finally, approaching noon, we crossed over a wide stream.

    58

    For a start we could have him take a nap up there while we fix lunch.

    59

    For the first time, I felt we all sensed we might be on to something highly significant.

    60

    From the porch we could see the huddled figure of Howie Abbott sitting under a large red umbrella on the edge of the pier.

    61

    Gathered together upstairs, we heard their report.

    62

    Granted, that's a step in the right direction but we still wouldn't know if the scene Howie saw actually occurred.

    63

    Granted, we have to plan how to best make it public but.

    64

    Granted, what we accomplished was monumental, but coming across a similar situation and duplicating what we were able to do might not occur very often.

    65

    Have we fo'gotten the waising of the militia in the yeah 'seven?

    66

    He found a bottle of scotch and insisted we toast our success.

    67

    He insists you two be with us before we move forward.

    68

    He may have spent time there or read about the place; we only had his word to the contrary.

    69

    He named a figure that surprised us by being far less than we'd guessed.

    70

    He played along with her banter but it was interesting to see he was savoring everything she said like the good wine we were sharing.

    71

    He reiterated his concern about anyone outside our group learning of what we were doing.

    72

    He turned toward the basement stairs and we all followed.

    73

    He's going to take me to where we left my car last night.

    74

    He's only here until Sunday night when we drop him off in Boston for his flight back to the west coast.

    75

    Here we were, caught up in the euphoria of our accomplishments, like a group of dissimilar workers sharing a winning power ball ticket, and thinking that success made us friends for ever.

    76

    Here, get yourself together and we'll go in and get a marriage license.

    77

    Hippocrates has even left directions how we should cut our nails; that is, even with the ends of the fingers, neither shorter nor longer.

    78

    Holdings hands like an old world family; we were committing our lives together like marriage vows.

    79

    How can we be sure Howie is always right?

    80

    How far do you think we've traveled?

    81

    How is it that we women don't want anything of the kind, don't need it?

    82

    Howie and I were relegated to shucking more corn and cutting up strawberries on the covered front porch as we watched the rain continue to fall.

    83

    Howie continued to look to us for direction while remaining adamant we exclude so much as mention of what we were doing to anyone outside our group.

    84

    Howie continued to tell all of us exactly what we did, relating our deeds and writings with absolute perfection.

    85

    Howie didn't like the arrangement but realized we couldn't commute back and forth every weekend and maintain a life.

    86

    Howie kept us in suspense until we assumed our seats around the table.

    87

    Howie left for his apartment shortly after we'd agreed to conduct his proposed test.

    88

    Howie wanted to wait until we were all together.

    89

    Howie was as excited as us once we could transport him more precisely.

    90

    Howie was quiet for several minutes as we finished our chores.

    91

    Hugs, intros and congratulations followed as we emerged from the car.

    92

    I am not saying we live in a utopia.

    93

    I assumed we'd discuss our latest findings but Howie, ever hyper in the secrecy department, disallowed any mention our activities in public.

    94

    I can pick you up at the hospital after work and we can spend the night up there.

    95

    I can't believe we're getting involved in something so bizarre and so treacherous.

    96

    I can't ignore what else we might accomplish.

    97

    I can't sleep thinking how we're wasting this incredible gift Howie has.

    98

    I cautioned everyone not to be concerned with what occurred after we conveyed a tip.

    99

    I changed the subject and opened one of the bottles of wine we'd brought from New York.

    100

    I don't even think he realizes we're females.

    101

    I don't think we should.

    102

    I dug in a tub of iced beer and Quinn and I toasted the two cans as we sat back on Adirondack chairs to enjoy the late afternoon.

    103

    I filled Betsy in on our hosts as we maneuvered the country roads of New England.

    104

    I guess I looked funny, so he asked me outright, if we'd been lovers.

    105

    I guess my life isn't very interesting to other people, but Alex and I like the way we live.

    106

    I guess there's nothing we can do here.

    107

    I guess we both lacked experience.

    108

    I guess we'll see.

    109

    I heard we had a nice museum in the cellar.

    110

    I hoped we could go for a walk.

    111

    I just convinced myself we were going to make it right.

    112

    I know, we've been all through this before - but I still don't understand.

    113

    I made myself comfortable on the sofa, my arm around Betsy, as we all waited for him to continue.

    114

    I mean it wasn't like we didn't have the money to buy clothes or anything like that.

    115

    I mean, we're siccing the police after someone Howie saw in... a vision, for God's sake!

    116

    I only meant it would be good to get out of the house, no matter what we went to see.

    117

    I spotted a gas station on a corner as we entered the city of Lynn but as we pulled closer, we saw the place was out of business.

    118

    I think that we may safely trust a good deal more than we do.

    119

    I think we already are.

    120

    I think we've both had a lot on our minds lately.

    121

    I thought maybe we could get married and live here.

    122

    I thought we came out here to look over the country.

    123

    I want to take you out to the north pasture before we leave today.

    124

    I was thinking about buying a new vehicle and wondered if we had the money, so I looked at his financial information on the computer.

    125

    I wish we had never come here.

    126

    I wonder why it is that we can walk so easily in the air.

    127

    I'll show you where we can get some water.

    128

    I'm just tired of the labels we slap on people who think independent of the 'in' crowd.

    129

    I'm saying what we had together was more important than what I have now.

    130

    I'm sorry I involved you but we're in this together; the five of us.

    131

    If Betsy and I were forced to share it, we wouldn't get much sleep.

    132

    If it's that important to you, I guess we could try a few guests.

    133

    If nothing happens, we can eliminate one possibility.

    134

    If she had asked about the building when we passed it, I might have figured she had never seen it, but she pretended she didn't notice.

    135

    If we all treated you like one of the guys, wouldn't you be a little disappointed?

    136

    If we do not...

    137

    If we have once seen, "the day is ours, and what the day has shown."

    138

    If we keep cool and moist, and meet with no accidents, we often live for five years.

    139

    If you guys are through socializing, we'd better get moving.

    140

    If you want to wait until I get off work, I'll try to leave a little early so we won't get back so late.

    141

    If you were trying to ask me to marry you, why did you act that way after we...

    142

    In more serene surroundings perhaps we could come to some understanding and move forward in a mutually peaceful way.

    143

    In the first place, I tell you we have no right to question the Emperor about that, and secondly, if the Russian nobility had that right, the Emperor could not answer such a question.

    144

    In this quake a big crack opened and we fell through--horse and buggy, and all--and the stones got loose and came down with us.

    145

    Inspired, perhaps, by Master Gobbler's success, we carried off to the woodpile a cake which the cook had just frosted, and ate every bit of it.

    146

    Instead we speculated on what we'd personally do if we had this gift or curse and it proved to be a true trip to the past.

    147

    Is it necessary to have someone say words over us, when we already know what we want?

    148

    It began with a glance as we passed each other the first time, a smile the next two or three laps, and then a pretend rest stop.

    149

    It looks like we've got company.

    150

    It pissed him off so much he cut off all tests just when we were making real progress.

    151

    It seemed to me we were all on edge, especially Howie who, aside from a smile and a few words, stayed out of our limited conversations.

    152

    It took three tries before we were satisfied our information was in believing hands.

    153

    It was with much anticipation we drove north on another Friday afternoon.

    154

    It wasn't that easy, either - and we're still in the barn.

    155

    It's a good thing we're all so darn sweet.

    156

    It's a part of me, and if we're going to have anything together, you're going to have to accept it.

    157

    It's a wonder we didn't raise our arms in surrender.

    158

    It's so nice not to listen to police sirens and taxies honking their horns but I'm afraid we might have woken Howie up earlier.

    159

    Jane, our GPS, as Betsy named her, didn't let us down and we found our friend's cabin at the end of a dusty road, hungry for dinner after a six hour drive.

    160

    Jonathan and I will make sure we fill her in on anything she missed.

    161

    Last time we talked, you sounded like you never wanted to see me again.

    162

    Let's get married as soon as we can.

    163

    Let's go by and take a look at your truck while we're in town.

    164

    Let's go do the chores one last time before we leave.

    165

    Make me a list of the things we would need and I'll take you into town.

    166

    Martha burst into tears and we tried one last time.

    167

    Martha had a plate full of pancakes ready so we all sat around the large table.

    168

    Martha handed out paper and pens before we left the house.

    169

    Meanwhile, we locked on the television, all evening, awaiting the results of our actions.

    170

    My, aren't we in a good mood tonight.

    171

    Neither do I - and we should.

    172

    Neither of us mentioned the subject since we left New Hampshire.

    173

    No, not too far, but the party is tonight, so we need to stay close.

    174

    No; we promised to maintain your privacy but is that the best course?

    175

    None of us divulged what we did.

    176

    None of us would win a beauty contest, would we?

    177

    Not if we're careful and not if it isn't false!

    178

    Now we knew we possessed an incredible tool at our fingertips.

    179

    Now, with Quinn's interest piqued, we were a committed pack of five dedicated to seek answers, wherever they might lie.

    180

    Oblivious as we were at the time, this meeting of the five of us was the beginning of a relationship that fused our lives together in a way we never would have imagined.

    181

    Of course, if you prefer, we can wait until you come home from work and make it a fun family event.

    182

    Oh, we disagree now and then, but we never come to blows.

    183

    On Christmas Eve, we sit in front of the fire and take turns reading Christmas stories.

    184

    On Saturday we took in a Broadway show and Sunday a baseball game.

    185

    Once again we trekked downstairs.

    186

    Once again we were ecstatic!

    187

    Once again, we abided by his wishes, albeit reluctantly.

    188

    Once we were sated and gathered in the living room Betsy began work on her computer.

    189

    One day we were out, so I put some powdered sugar in a bag.

    190

    Only a fairy country could have veg'table people; and only in a fairy country could Eureka and Jim talk as we do.

    191

    Only Quinn seemed pleased with that result but when we tried to question him about it he refused to discuss the matter.

    192

    Only we really never broke the rules.

    193

    Otherwise we'd be doomed to spinstership.

    194

    Otherwise, it's just as well we never see each other again.

    195

    Our little group anguished over our decision once we were back together, alternating between chastising and applauding what we'd done.

    196

    Our route scooted between Pennsylvania and Virginia for three hours until we crossed into West Virginia and traded a major highway for winding secondary roads.

    197

    Peabody was two hundred and thirty miles and we arrived at our destination a little after eleven on Friday night, after nearly six hours of steady traffic.

    198

    Perhaps we could help you to work it out.

    199

    Quinn added, We didn't want to wake him, or be talking about him while he might overhear.

    200

    Quinn adjusted his equipment while we waited outside.

    201

    Quinn is packing up the power sources as we speak and the plants will be destroyed as part of the test.

    202

    Quinn reacted as we'd grown to expect but Howie's visions became our afternoon project.

    203

    Quinn will think were requesting something like a séance or spiritual encounter but if we don't humor Howie, he'll be devastated.

    204

    Quinn, surprised we were still clinging to our project, slumped down in an easy chair, journals in hand.

    205

    Say we saw it happen but we want to remain anonymous.

    206

    She began to moan and sunk her nails into my back until we finally flopped back in exhaustion.

    207

    She fell in love with a trapper and he took her back to what we all describe as civilization.

    208

    She shouted out the address as we climbed down the stairs and joined the others below.

    209

    Should we bandage it?

    210

    Shouldn't we discuss this first?

    211

    Sir, is there some way we can get in touch with you?

    212

    So after a cab ride to the airport rental agency, we escaped the fumes of Manhattan on an August Friday noon and joined the city escapees heading north.

    213

    Some of you, we all know, are poor, find it hard to live, are sometimes, as it were, gasping for breath.

    214

    Somehow, between her and Martha, Quinn and Howie agreed to run a trip back while we remained in New York in phone contact.

    215

    Sometimes Alex and Jonathan play soccer, and sometimes we all go for a ride in the buggy.

    216

    Sometimes we go out to eat.

    217

    Sometimes we have to accept change, if we want to move forward.

    218

    Speaking of your mother, we'd better go in so she doesn't worry.

    219

    Still, don't you think we should get to know each other a little better?

    220

    Sure. We'll be in after a little bit.

    221

    Thanks, I know we can count on you, Katie, but I think she'll be more comfortable staying at our house.

    222

    Thanks, now why don't you get dressed and we'll go out to dinner and a movie or something.

    223

    That is the least we can do!

    224

    That way we'll never get lost from each other again.

    225

    That's true but the electrostatic attraction is something we're just beginning to understand.

    226

    That's unusual, I know, but we both like it that way.

    227

    That's when we all do things together.

    228

    That's why we couldn't find it.

    229

    The adults were off someplace and we got a little drunk, I guess.

    230

    The least we should do is come up with a fool proof way of giving a tip that can't be traced back to us!

    231

    The longer Howie spoke on the phone, the more I felt guilty that we were manipulating him into a parlor game at the expense of his privacy.

    232

    The phone was in the kitchen and we gave Howie privacy.

    233

    The pure uniqueness of what we did virtually demands that there exist somewhere a record of what transpired and the terrible toll the results exerted on those of us involved.

    234

    The rest of us followed and we could hear Howie retching in the bathroom.

    235

    The rest of us looked to Howie, all of us wondering what roads we'd travel forward.

    236

    The thoughts of where we would go from here weighed heavily on everyone's mind.

    237

    The tip we offered must be the end of our involvement.

    238

    The trip took us out of the District on the Maryland side as we headed west through picturesque rolling hills and farm lands.

    239

    The words weren't out of my mouth when we heard his door open and footsteps retreating down the hall.

    240

    Then Howie asked if we'd try to run a session this weekend, long distance, by phone.

    241

    Then we took that ride and you were so impressed with the country.

    242

    Then, when we have kids, Mom could watch them.

    243

    There are three small rooms upstairs but we'll explain about them later.

    244

    There were no stairs in their houses, because they did not need them, but on a level surface they generally walked just as we do.

    245

    They carry these at the store where we always shop.

    246

    They have decided that Buonaparte has burnt his boats, and I believe that we are ready to burn ours.

    247

    Think of the good we might be doing!

    248

    Think of the risks we'd all be exposed to.

    249

    Those colored suns are exactly in the same place they were when we came, and if there is no sunset there can be no night.

    250

    Today, we leave this rustic life and move to the city.

    251

    True feelings lay hidden in the wonder of what we'd accomplished.

    252

    Two blocks away we found a dark spot that catered to happy hour regulars.

    253

    We actually have four children now.

    254

    We agreed on our mutual commitment.

    255

    We agreed the set up was adequate and thanked him for his efforts.

    256

    We agreed the tests were finished for the day but mellowed by wine; we spent two more evening hours summarizing our findings.

    257

    We agreed there'd be no more sessions unless all five of us were together.

    258

    We agreed to call it a night and reconnoiter in the morning.

    259

    We all agreed but I silently wondered what our collective reaction would be if the opposite occurred!

    260

    We all believe you, Howie.

    261

    We all climbed the stairs as Quinn greeted us.

    262

    We all had for too much on our minds.

    263

    We all know that was impossible.

    264

    We all looked questioningly to Martha who stood at the open doorway.

    265

    We all paraded downstairs.

    266

    We all readily agreed.

    267

    We all remember ours but yours is missing.

    268

    We all want to do more, but we can't afford the time away from life to do as much as we want.

    269

    We also have a couple of wild asses.

    270

    We are all early.

    271

    We are all vegetable, in this country.

    272

    We are quite solid inside our bodies, and have no need to eat, any more than does a potato.

    273

    We are Russians and will not grudge our blood in defense of our faith, the throne, and the Fatherland!

    274

    We are somewhere in the middle of the earth, and the chances are we'll reach the other side of it before long.

    275

    We asked about buildings; there were none, only corn in the four fields separated by the cross roads.

    276

    We asked if there was anyone around who might still be living who would remember that far back.

    277

    We assumed Howie would beg for the five of us to be in attendance.

    278

    We assumed our now familiar positions with Howie changed into pajamas and robe.

    279

    We ate supper and put the rest in the refrigerator for you.

    280

    We both agree that you need to get out of this place for a while.

    281

    We both wanted a baby.

    282

    We breakfasted and were on the road by the agreed time.

    283

    We briefly discussed tomorrow's half-day activities now that the weather had improved but our collective hearts weren't in it.

    284

    We can be married in Ashley.

    285

    We can get that little place in Tulsa that we talked about.

    286

    We can handle this job by ourselves.

    287

    We can run another test, if you wish.

    288

    We can stop right here if you want, Carmen.

    289

    We can use a pay phone.

    290

    We can't call from here!

    291

    We can't have a gang hanging around a phone booth.

    292

    We can't let it happen again. she stammered.

    293

    We chatted amicably around the oak table, laughing at each other's stories.

    294

    We chatted briefly, agreed to have coffee and have been nearly inseparable ever sense.

    295

    We chipped in clearing the table and cleaning the dishes.

    296

    We commenced another session without even bothering to go upstairs.

    297

    We commonly do not remember that it is, after all, always the first person that is speaking.

    298

    We conducted one more test before lunch.

    299

    We conveyed the meager information to a national tip line, fearing it might be too little too late.

    300

    We could get married in Ashley and take the stage back.

    301

    We could hear Quinn's sigh.

    302

    We could rent one.

    303

    We could say he has excellent taste.

    304

    We could stop by and pick her up.

    305

    We couldn't afford an apartment right now - even with the two of us.

    306

    We couldn't find a prettier place, I'm sure.

    307

    We decided to leave the house and reconnoiter at a local restaurant, one that served wine.

    308

    We decided to take the evening off and have a nice meal in Boston.

    309

    We descended the basement stairs leaving Quinn alone in the kitchen.

    310

    We didn't bother to argue with Quinn.

    311

    We dined at a small Mexican restaurant and spent the meal discussing general topics.

    312

    We discussed my non-happening over chicken salad and cheese soup.

    313

    We do know as a result of earlier tests EA, as we call it, is also part of the lure.

    314

    We don't even know if the plants have anything to do with it.

    315

    We don't have an extra bed but there's a roll out cot down there.

    316

    We don't know if Quinn's paraphernalia has anything to do with your dreams.

    317

    We don't know if the cause is the power sources, some or more of the plants or the room itself.

    318

    We dropped Howie off at his hotel as he gushed his thanks.

    319

    We drove along the beach and into the town of Nahant.

    320

    We drove another mile before spotting a corner variety store.

    321

    We firmed plans although it meant my cancelling a night out with a coworker.

    322

    We followed behind him.

    323

    We forbade ourselves to even discuss our impetuous actions for fear of disturbing Howie so all we could do is cross our fingers and pray.

    324

    We found a family massacred a few days ago.

    325

    We gave him our assurances we'd not violate his trust though I thought Betsy's suggestion was reasonable.

    326

    We gave only limited thought to the upcoming session as our pre wedding trip and plans took precedence in our hectic schedule.

    327

    We had more nonevents like uninhabited places than success but some were spectacular.

    328

    We had wasted nearly the entire day with no results.

    329

    We had yet to see the second floor bedrooms.

    330

    We hashed out a possible way to move forward.

    331

    We have a beautiful house and lots of parties.

    332

    We have a lot of left-overs and Scruffy is getting ridiculously fat.

    333

    We have an out of state rental car and no one could possibly recognize either of us.

    334

    We have some cold days, but mostly it is warm.

    335

    We have to do it!

    336

    We have to get on the road after lunch.

    337

    We have to limit the strain we place him under or he'll break.

    338

    We have to set the test near the present to verify.

    339

    We have, in fact, envisioned a better world and have made it happen.

    340

    We haven't decided yet.

    341

    We haven't stopped and truly planned our activities.

    342

    We heard him come downstairs and when he didn't return, I came down to check on him.

    343

    We just found out.

    344

    We just got back about an hour ago.

    345

    We just turned off the highway, so we'll be there pretty soon.

    346

    We lived a long way from any school for the blind or the deaf, and it seemed unlikely that any one would come to such an out-of-the-way place as Tuscumbia to teach a child who was both deaf and blind.

    347

    We love our parents, siblings and friends.

    348

    We managed the weekend in between together, mostly catching up on domestic chores; Friday night in the downstairs laundry room of my apartment.

    349

    We motored by moderately maintained modest houses and empty spaces before turning onto the main street.

    350

    We must not be late.

    351

    We mutually agreed the subject of our tests was verboten until we were able to get together again in three weeks hence.

    352

    We never travelled much except to come up here to New Hampshire a few times.

    353

    We nodded our approval and awaited more revelations.

    354

    We only know that yesterday came a Rain of Stones upon us, which did much damage and injured some of our people.

    355

    We only managed four sessions; one to an uninhabited area, another in open farm land but one we thought was interesting.

    356

    We parked and entered together.

    357

    We paused before digging in.

    358

    We plodded our way through dinner but the disappointment of the bad news phone call weighted on everyone's mind.

    359

    We record every detail he sees eliminating his need to remember license plate and such.

    360

    We remained so for the following week.

    361

    We remained spellbound, not even bothering to check our notes as his accuracy became apparent.

    362

    We sat in silence for nearly an hour, each with his own thoughts.

    363

    We sat there, mouths agape.

    364

    We searched unsuccessfully for a map of the West Virginia.

    365

    We shook ourselves dry on the porch and returned to the warmth of the cabin.

    366

    We should be congratulating them.

    367

    We should live in all the ages of the world in an hour; ay, in all the worlds of the ages.

    368

    We spent our remaining time in New Hampshire with no mention of his visions.

    369

    We spent the next hour quizzing Howie to try and determine the location he "visited" with Martha taking copious notes while the questions flew.

    370

    We started our lovemaking slowly, allowing the others in nearby bedrooms time to fall asleep.

    371

    We still have more tests we could run but up to twenty four to forty eight hours; I'm pretty close on both time and location.

    372

    We stole one weekend together, remaining in New York, before answering a summons to join the others in Massachusetts.

    373

    We stopped briefly for a fast food lunch.

    374

    We sure could use you.

    375

    We talked about celibacy and all the stuff he'd miss.

    376

    We thought maybe you could convince him to go, or at least look at him.

    377

    We took full advantage of our opportunity.

    378

    We took seats on an old leather sofa and side chair while our hostess sat behind the desk that dominated the room.

    379

    We traipsed up the stairs to the living room, a parade of zombies, each as stunned and speechless as the others.

    380

    We updated him on our experiment but his mind was elsewhere.

    381

    We used to be so close.

    382

    We waited until Howie continued.

    383

    We wanted liberty, but Buonaparte has destroyed it.

    384

    We were all at risk, simply because we could identify him!

    385

    We were all fidgety and talked out by the time we returned to Peabody.

    386

    We were all getting worried about you.

    387

    We were all together.

    388

    We were an hour into our drive south before I broached the subject, asking her about the tete-a-tete.

    389

    We were both soaked by the time we reached him.

    390

    We were clearing dishes, before he spoke.

    391

    We were cowboy and Indian kids, living in an imagination paradise of rocks and trees and dirt, with her leading the way.

    392

    We were directed by a friendly voice on our GPS, a previously unused present from my retired parents.

    393

    We were forced to stop on three different occasions as Howie, a back seat passenger, became frequently nauseous.

    394

    We were getting along so well.

    395

    We were in strong disagreement over continuing.

    396

    We were lucky to get away from those dreadful vegetable people.

    397

    We were on it, so to speak, less than two hours after the baby was taken.

    398

    We were pensive as we tried to fathom what was occurring.

    399

    We were quieter than usual as we drove to our destination.

    400

    We were rolling in euphoria when an old friend from my Amherst, Massachusetts childhood telephoned with an invitation to visit her family cabin in New Hampshire.

    401

    We were set to run renewed sessions on Saturday but on Thursday Martha telephoned in tears.

    402

    We were tip toeing toward something impossible and it made me nervous.

    403

    We weren't disappointed as Martha continued.

    404

    We weren't sure what to do or even if we should report Howie's feelings.

    405

    We will show Europe how Russia rises to the defense of Russia!

    406

    We would have arrived earlier if we'd driven.

    407

    We would marry in Iowa and honeymoon on a seven day Caribbean cruise.

    408

    We would perform this chore one after the other for a total of perhaps fifteen minutes.

    409

    We would restrict our altruistic activity to weekends and possibly an evening or two a week by phone, if it worked.

    410

    We would, as Betsy suggested, telephone the tip on our way back to New York.

    411

    We wouldn't exactly be alone.

    412

    We wouldn't grow under ground, I'm sure.

    413

    We wouldn't want them to think we were doing anything immoral.

    414

    We'd be accusing people of serious crimes!

    415

    We'd better get back to the apartment.

    416

    We'd better get the kids ready.

    417

    We'd better go in the back way or Mom will have my hide.

    418

    We'd drive Peabody, Massachusetts, two weeks before our wedding.

    419

    We'd spent little quality time together.

    420

    We'll discuss that later.

    421

    We'll get down to the details.

    422

    We'll go, then, and I promise to keep my hands to myself.

    423

    We'll have to be careful about that with the new baby.

    424

    We'll have to stay here until it lets up.

    425

    We'll hear him the same as when he's in here, but he won't be disturbed by us when we talk.

    426

    We'll let Martha and Betsy alone to get acquainted.

    427

    We'll take care of them together.

    428

    We'll talk when you cool off and get yourself together.

    429

    We're all here now.

    430

    We're all holding down jobs and going to school, Dad.

    431

    We're almost out of the sand.

    432

    We're already late getting started on account of him and the saddle bum will probably use up another half-hour of daylight eating our food.

    433

    We're close enough, and our camp sight will give us a little protection from the coming storm.

    434

    We're going somewhere else to talk.

    435

    We're going to stay here for the night.

    436

    We're going to take you to the hospital.

    437

    We're had poor Howie in thirty-two sessions since you're been here so Quinn's developed cross references.

    438

    We're here for him, whatever his decision.

    439

    We're infusing different charges on different forms of flora.

    440

    We're just beginning to understand their impact on nature and the universe.

    441

    We're just pointing the police in a direction.

    442

    We're not fooling around, you know.

    443

    We're not talking over a thousand dollars, are we?

    444

    We're on the way to get my car.

    445

    We're probably the only roommates in Tulsa with such old fashioned rules.

    446

    We're putting all of us at risk.

    447

    We're short handed so you wind up taking care of your own team and wagon.

    448

    We're two hundred miles away.

    449

    We're very happy together.

    450

    We're working to determine how large a part it represents.

    451

    We've been married for nearly five years, and we just made love.

    452

    We've got some hot chocolate on the stove.

    453

    We've got to let him go.

    454

    We've taken you for granted, haven't we?

    455

    Well, maybe we both did a little.

    456

    Well, we finally have the chance to be alone.

    457

    Well, whatever we do, I'd like to do it as a family.

    458

    What about those we were accusing?

    459

    What are we going to do?

    460

    What ever happens, we're in this together.

    461

    What in God's name had we done?

    462

    What time are we going to leave tomorrow?

    463

    What we heard shocked us as Howie began to speak.

    464

    What we need is a leader.

    465

    What we need is a plan but let's give it until tomorrow to clear our minds.

    466

    Whatever we do, we have to eat.

    467

    When Howie is unable to verify what we do perhaps he'll let us investigate what's causing his mind to create these fantasies.

    468

    When Howie ran dry, we began discussing reasonable explanations for what he was seeing.

    469

    When I rose and asked if we were ready to begin another session, he was eager to join us on our trek to the basement.

    470

    When I was about five years old we moved from the little vine-covered house to a large new one.

    471

    When we exhausted the subject, Betsy rose and took the floor.

    472

    When we were fortunate enough to find a nest I never allowed her to carry the eggs home, making her understand by emphatic signs that she might fall and break them.

    473

    When we were in Texas, I got the feeling that Señor Medena loved Alex - that he was saddened by the way Alex rejected him.

    474

    When we'd finished, he remained with the women instead of retreating upstairs.

    475

    Wherever we go, I can find a job to fit my goals.

    476

    While he exuded honesty and sincerity, we barely knew the man.

    477

    While Howie, between his brain damage, operations and lengthy coma created a rare combination of mental soup, could we say with any certainty that his ability was absolutely unique to him?

    478

    While Martha is my kindred spirit, Quinn and I always got along fairly well the few times we're all gotten together.

    479

    While my relationship with Martha LeBlanc, nee Rossi, dated back to our play pen years and kindergarten days, lately we've hiked different paths, reducing our contact to Christmas cards and once a month phone calls.

    480

    While our employment hampered our work with Howie, we all recognized our need to continue our day to day lives.

    481

    Who are we to suggest that it's wrong?

    482

    Who do we call?

    483

    Whose goals are we talking about here, mine or yours?

    484

    Why didn't we camp here?

    485

    Why don't I pack a lunch so we can go down to the pond for a picnic?

    486

    Why don't we all eat out on the patio?

    487

    Why don't we go out for pizza tonight?

    488

    Why don't we go out for supper tonight - just us and the kids?

    489

    Why is it that you can only remember my first name when we're making love?

    490

    Why should we bother?

    491

    Why should we expect that to change?

    492

    Will we see any dolphins, Dad?

    493

    Yeah, who'd ever know we were engaged?

    494

    Yeah. Why don't we go up and show it to Mom and Dad today?

    495

    Yes, we have many horses.

    496

    You all contribute to what we're doing.

    497

    You can take notes, just in case we forget something.

    498

    You fell asleep alright, but we didn't get that far.

    499

    You know, Cindy, we could...

    500

    You should take notes in case we forget some detail.