OUT OF THIN AIR

I remember once going to the home of the Sisters of the Most Precious Blood to buy a rosary that was to be a Christmas present for a friend. The sisters were cloistered nuns and there was no way you could see behind the lattice-work screen. I explained what I wanted and a voice soft like the sound of little tinkling bells answered me. Then I heard “Ohhhhh. . .” and I thought for a moment I had offended her. I asked apologetically if I had. A delighted laugh came through the screen.

“Oh of course not. I’m just back to my childhood. You must be the Story Teller I used to listen to as a little girl.”

Wherever I go I meet former listeners. In Kingston, Ontario recently I ran across a nurse who to my amazement remembered the program. Jean Aitken Strong said that she had listened while growing up in the Magdalene Islands. I often wonder if today’s children would appreciate the stories as much now when violence on earth and programs showing clashes in outer space occupy much of the television screen. I honestly think they would. Stories about giants, goblins, witches and elves never lose their appeal.

The Sleepy Town Express was also on television. Carl Sentner on camera. Betty Large, “Story Teller”.

138