Rosa's Reply

Regretfully, I've been neglecting my journal quite a bit lately. I wish I had valid reason for this, but alas, I have no excuse. We've been fairly busy at the Mission, but no busier than usual.

My lunch with the Boston missionary went well. Her name is Joan, and I she was very nice. I think I taught her some useful things about running a Mission and how to recruit members. Joan was extremely grateful to have a mentor of some kind, and thanked me many times. We decided to exchange telephone numbers, in the case she had a question for me in the future.

I told Adelaide about Sky and Nathan's venture to the races a little while ago. We understand that it is hard to give up something that has been a part of your life for so long, but they both gave us their word that they would not return to the world of gambling. I've talked to Sky, and he's tried to explain his reasoning, but I still feel cross with him. Perhaps I do not understand, as I have not been in his situation, however, I'm starting to wonder if he'll ever change.

For the happier news of the week, I have received Rosa's answer in the post! I've inserted the letter into the pages of my journal.

Dearest Sarah,

You do not know how wonderful it is to hear from you again. I've never forgotten our friendship throughout these past five years, and I doubt I ever will. I have wondered many a time what it would have been like if the family stayed in New York. I imagine it would have been much more agreeable than what I have experienced in reality. I do not want to spoil your day, but this is my news since we spoke last. 

As you know, my brother Albert died in action overseas in nineteen fourty-four. One and a half years after we moved to care for Grandmother, she passed. My father left my mother and we haven't heard from him since. All of this would have happened had we stayed in New York, but they would have been much easier to get through with a friend like you. 

Now, enough of the melancholy. Yes, I have married. His name is Johnathan, and the wedding was last summer. And, for exciting and happy news: we're expecting! The baby is set to arrive in early December, and I am ecstatic. I'm surprised you haven't tied the knot yet, as beautiful as you are. We must talk again soon! Johnny is traveling to New York on business come October. Possibly I could come along and we could meet over dinner? 

Take care,

Rosa

I don't know what to feel for Rosa. Sadness and empathy for her losses, or delight at her recent happiness? Maybe both? The fact is, I cannot wait to see her again if I can. I didn't know quite how much I miss my friend until I received her letter. I hope to hear from her again soon.

All my love,

-Miss Brown

Relief and Excitement!

It's been a while since I've written in here, but something significant has happened in that time: Auntie has returned to full health! Around mid-week, last week she was walking about and making tea and things. Now the illness has left her body and the Mission is fully operational again. This is a huge relief off my shoulders. Now I can focus on on rehabilitating clients at work (and one specific gambler we all know whom I caught heading to the races...with another familiar gambler). I think I must have a word with Adelaide about those two. We may have a problem on our hands. 

The General stopped by yesterday to check on the progress of the Mission. She was delighted at our recent successes and to hear that Auntie is well again. She also brought with her exciting information! They are opening a Mission in Boston. The woman who will be running it is just a little younger than me (nineteen) and has never done anything like this on her own before. At the moment she still lives here, in New York, and she'll be moving in two weeks' time. The General is asking me, while she's still in town, to meet with her and giver advice. We will meet and talk over lunch on Saturday afternoon.

I'm very excited to be doing this! I wish I could have had such advice before I started my job at the Mission. I had Auntie helping a little, of course, but I had to learn on the job. Ah, well...we've done fairly well in any case. 

Still no word from Rosa, but I'm not even sure she'll answer my letter. 

I hope she will,
-Miss Brown

Cleaning, Conversations, and Cutlery!

Sky left Tuesday morning, and he returned only a few minutes ago. He volunteered to go to the shop to get more milk for Auntie and I, bless him! That's where he is now, so I have a little time to write. Yesterday was rather lonely for me, but Auntie's health has been improving enough for her to talk and stay awake longer. She still doesn't hold lengthy conversations, as she days the pain in her throat is too great for that.

This morning Adelaide came to visit, and she decided to help me clean the house (it has fallen into disarray since Auntie got sick). We spent the majority of the day tidying, sweeping, and mopping, socializing all the way.

After we had exhausted all the conversation topics we could think of, everything went quiet. We were washing the dishes at this time. Apart from the clinking of dishes and the splashing of water, nothing had made a sound in a long while. So, when Nathan came in, apparently soundlessly, and put a hand on each of our shoulders, we got quite the fright. Both of us jumped about a foot in the air and dropped what we were holding. The teacup in my hand slipped through my fingers and shattered on the edge of the sink. Adelaide's handful of cutlery clattered to the bottom of the basin, splashing everything in hot water. According to Nathan, this was absolutely hilarious. I doubt he'll ever let us forget it. Ah, well. We'll get our revenge someday!

After clearing up the broken china and wiping up the water, we sat down and talked. Around four thirty, Adelaide and Nathan went on their way, and I began to prepare dinner (tonight was tomato soup). I had a nice conversation with Auntie over our soup (today was a talkative day!). Soon after though, she fell asleep again. 

Sky is back now, with our milk! I suppose that's my queue to put down my pen...

Best wishes!
-Miss Brown

The Ball of Anxiety

I'm beginning to worry about Auntie again. She was better, but she began to weaken a little again. Dr. Scannell performed his daily assessment, and assured me that she will be healthy soon, but the ball of anxiety is still tight in my chest. When she isn't sleeping, she's coughing out a lung. It is almost too painful to listen to. The poor dear can only eat soft foods, for the coughing has left her throat raw and sore.  I do hope the Lord will spare her much more of this torture. 

Today, Sky came to visit me at Auntie's house. She was asleep, so he stayed with me while I made some soup for the evening's meal. I'm extremely grateful for the company. The past few days have dragged on and on, listening to Auntie's illness ameliorate, and deteriorate gradually. I haven't talked much, except to ask if Arvide needed anything, so it all burst out of me at once. I must have been going on for a quarter of an hour before Sky stopped me by planting one right on me. It was a little unorthodox, but I got the picture. 

Sky arrived at approximately three thirty, and is still here with me, at ten thirty. He's currently dozing on the sofa, looking very peaceful. As for me, I am sitting in the armchair next to him, marveling at the fact that one of the most important people to me is kind enough to be with me while I care for another of the most important people to me. For some reason, this thought is truly very calming for me. The ball of anxiety is loosening slightly, and I think I might be able to get some shut-eye tonight. 

Wish me luck,
-Miss Brown

Who is Rosa Cohen?

Since Thursday, Auntie has been getting better. I don't cringe as much when she coughs, so that's a good sign, I suppose. She has still been sleeping a lot, though, so I've gotten some time to write.

 I wrote a letter to a friend I had when I was a little girl, Rosa Cohen. We met during Sunday School when we were six, and we became the best of friends. We would see each other on Sundays, but soon the Sunday School teacher moved away, and lessons stopped until a replacement could be found. Nevertheless, we kept in touch. I turned out that although we attended different schools, we did not live too far away from each other. In fact, our houses were only two streets apart. Upon discovering this, we had play dates every weekend. My friendship with Rosa lasted years. We both were angels in the church's Christmas Pageant, we took up knitting, and we were interested in many of the same things. When we were a little older, we would giggle about which boys we thought were handsome and gush about photographs of the wedding gowns we wanted to have. Unfortunately, all of this ended shortly after my sixteenth birthday. Rosa's grandmother fell ill, and her family had to move south to care for her. We wrote to each other for about a year, but eventually we lost contact. 

Rosa had been the only friend I had. When she moved away, I busied myself with my studies and caring for Auntie when she was sick (due to her poor immune system). She still was part of my life for a long while, and I don't know what I would have done without her. For this reason, I thought it would be nice to send her a letter, see how she's been. I invited her to tea if she is still in New York. Maybe she would like to meet Adelaide!

I hope she is still at the same address to which I sent the letter... ah, well, I will soon find out!

Truly yours,
-Miss Brown

Sarah Brown: The Worried, Sleep Deprived Nurse

This week has not been as blissful as the last few. Auntie Arvide has fallen ill. It started as a mild cough, but within a few days it developed into a hacking, painful one. Auntie's immune system has been weak since a very young age, and so she's been bedridden since Sunday. I called a doctor (Dr. Scannell) I was so worried about her. Dr. Scannell assured me that she will recover. But along with this relieving news, he told me that until then, Auntie will have to be in heavy care.

The Mission will have to shut down for a while until she gets better, as I will be on nursing duty twenty-four hours a day. I have been waiting on her hand and foot, and have barley gotten any sleep. I don't mind helping of course, but won't be able to visit Sky or Adelaide. It will only be for a short while, but sitting at her beside while Auntie sleeps, I am already feeling loneliness creeping up upon me.

Perhaps someone will come to the house to see me for a short while. Meanwhile, I will pray they do and that my dearest aunt will recover soon. Maybe I'll work on writing a bit more now that I have the time. I might send letters to the girls I knew in school. I'll write in here quite a bit as well I assume...probably everyday!

Auntie is stirring. I think I should prepare her dinner and evening medicine.

Pray for her,
-Miss Brown

Nightfall

Adelaide had an idea the other day. She suggested we all go out to dinner, the four of us; she and Nathan, and Sky and I. I thought this was a wonderful idea, so we asked the men what they thought.They happily agreed, so last night we all went to a restaurant close to Central Park. It looked quite nice, but the food was a bit disappointing. It was very enjoyable, spending time with friends. Nathan and Sky talked about gambling while Adelaide and I discussed wedding details.

Sky and Nathan must have hatched a little scheme during their conversation; I think they ordered Adelaide and I one too many glasses of wine, because we were overcome with school-girlish giggles for the rest of the night.

After dinner, we took a stroll in Central Park. It was dusk and everything was bathed in deep pink. Hardly speaking, we walked along, both couples hand in hand. I was still quite giddy, but I fought to hold it in. After a while, however, Adelaide could not do it any longer. She became very animated, dancing around and laughing. It's lucky we were alone, as people would have stared. It was amusing to watch, what with her speaking a little too loudly, and a little to quickly. Nathan seemed to find this particularly funny, and couldn't keep his eyes of his fiancee of nearly fifteen years. Eventually, Sky pulled me away to allow them some privacy. 

We stopped and sat on a bench to watch the sun set. Sky had his arm around me and I could feel the effects of the wine ebbing away. It was ever so peaceful and romantic. It was one of those moments where I was amazed at my own happiness. 

I rested my head on his shoulder. We stayed like that for a long time, watching as the sun sank lower and lower beneath the horizon, and ended the night with a kiss.

All my love,
-Miss Brown

Patti Page's Angelic Voice

Last night was wonderful. I was nervous at first, but I was having the time of my life by the time we went home.


As soon as I wrote my last entry, I called Adelaide on the telephone. I needed fashion advice, and that is definitely her area of expertise. When I told her where we were going, she actually put down the telephone and brought one of her dresses to my house. It was held up by a halter around the neck and its scarlet material flowed down to the floor. The bodice was wrapped around the torso, beginning under the chest, and stopping just above the hips. Simply gorgeous. Adelaide made me wear it, and I'm ever so grateful for her generosity, as I fell in love with it slightly.


Sky ensured that I didn't eat before we left, so my suspicions that there would be dinner were confirmed. The food was scrumptious. The wine was as well, but due to the effects I've experienced with alcohol, I made sure I sipped it slowly. There was live music also, which I had guessed. Sky told me the singer, who was beautiful and very talented, was named Patti Page. He said we were lucky, because Miss Page usually sings at larger and fancier venues.
I was quite enjoying her music, and I noticed people getting up to dance. It was nice to sit there watching the women and their beaus swaying in rhythm with the song. I was lost in my thoughts, though not really thinking about anything in particular, when Sky asked me to dance. I accepted of course, but I was worried I would make a fool of myself again. I did not, however, I just did my best to follow Sky's lead. It took some concentration at first, but after the first song it came naturally.


As I danced with my darling to the sound of Miss Page's angelic voice, I realized how happy I am. I don't think I've ever felt so joyful. I've been blessed by God to have so many wonderful people in my life. So now all I can do is pray my happiness will last.


Sincerely yours,
-Miss Brown

Music and Stress

I've been extremely busy lately. We've has quite a few people at the Mission lately, but even so, I've had to do more recruitment. A few people have come to us with a loved one whom they believe is straying from God's path. This is welcome of course, but it is difficult to help someone who does not wish to be helped. I want these people to find the way, but the process is very stressful for me. 

And yes, I've begun to convince Sky to see how harmful gambling can be. The situation with his bet with Nathan has made him think twice, but I can't tell he longs for the traveling and the casinos. It is understandable that he thinks this way, as you cannot change someone's culture in a fortnight, but hopefully I'll get through to him. 

 In other news, Sky is taking me to what I assume is a concert tonight. I'm excited, but also nervous. I have never attended such an event, and I don't know how I should act. I am also wondering what we're to do there. Will there be tables and a meal, or just a seating arrangement? Will I be expected to dance? The last time I dance was in Havana. I was absolutely dreadful, so I hope I mustn't embarrass myself for a second time. Also, what should I wear? Will it be formal, or casual? Adelaide will know, I shall ask her!
Perhaps I worry too much. In any case, I will write about it tomorrow. 

Best Wishes,
 -Miss Brown

Embracing My Feminine Side

I seem to be addressing this journal as a person. I realize this is quite silly, but I like it. I apologize to you, journal, if you are a man, as this next entry is on the subject of Miss Adelaide's wedding gown shopping.


I woke bright and early and Adelaide arrived at my home. We stayed in for perhaps an hour to socialize and whatnot before taking a cab to Adelaide's chosen bridal boutique. She gushed about dress details for the entire commute.

          

"I'm unsure whether I prefer the modest style, or the more modern one. What do you think? My mother would tell me 'Adelaide, dear, that skirt needs a little more length!' as she always did when I was a little girl, if I chose a modern dress. But the girls at the Hot Box would advise me to avoid the modest styles mother would suggest. Oh, and veils! I love my veil that I bought three years ago, but I don't know if it will match my gown. If it doesn't, should I buy another?"

That is only a small excerpt of her ramblings. I love her, but she's slightly off her rocker.

We arrived at the shoppe in the late morning so we decided to browse awhile, then have lunch. A few items caught Adelaide's attention, so after we ate, she tried them on. We had a lovely chat while she tried dress after dress. She and I always seem to have the most wonderful and thoughtful conversations.


When we finally had narrowed it down to two gowns, it was well into the afternoon. Both were very beautiful on her. One was a modest, floor-length white gown with long lace sleeves, lace on a portion of the back and collar, and lace and tulle all along the skirt. The waist was fitted so the skirt flowed out accenting Adelaide's figure. It was more war-era than I think she liked, so she decided on the other option. This dress is tea-length and a pretty ivory color. The waist is also fitted so the skirt flows out, but slightly wider. The sleeves are free of lace and stop slightly above the elbows. The bodice is wrapped in a criss cross pattern, making the collar a wide V. My favorite feature that I believe really ties the dress together, is the skirt hem, which is a soft lace.


She was ecstatic that she had finally found the dress of her dreams. I think her happiness actually came from the feeling that the thing she had waited fourteen years for was finally becoming a reality. She was jumping up and down and squealing, which is something I have only seen in films, so that was quite the experience. She promptly stopped when the nice woman that works there came into the room. She did, however, give me a tight hug and exclaimed, "Thank you for helping me choose! You are the best maid of honor a girl could have!"
This surprised me, but I was extremely touched. I cannot express my gratitude towards her. It warms my heart and soul that she chose me for this role in her wedding. All I could do was return her embrace.


We left the boutique with smiles on our faces, a wedding gown in tow, and a wonderful story with which to go home and bore the men. How could the day have gone any better?


Yours truly,
-Miss Brown

Tea, Anyone?

So sorry I haven't been writing very often lately. I've been ever so happy, and have not thought to write about it. I've noticed that the only two subjects I've ever written to you about have been Sky and the Mission! How utterly dull! So, today I thought I should talk about something else. Something just as important as love and faith: friendship.


Adelaide called me on the telephone yesterday evening asking me if I'd like to visit her and drink some tea. Of course, I said yes. How could refuse such a lovely invitation from such a lovely young woman? We made arrangements for noon today, so we could enjoy a lunch in the city as well.


We met at nice restaurant downtown. As soon as she saw me she hugged me and we exchanged our respective greetings. We sat at our table beside the window and made small talk until I could not wait another moment and I had to know. The question tumbled out of my mouth. "Have you repaired your relationship with Nathan?!" She giggled and replied "Yes!" She told me that not only had the relationship been repaired, but the engagement as well. This was wonderful news!
Adelaide and I had a lengthy chat about men and relationships, as women do, over our meal (which was delightful by the way). We finished lunch, paid, and then took a stroll to Adelaide's house. There, we put a kettle on and settled into comfortable armchairs in Adelaide's beautiful salon. 
Sipping our tea, my friend began to tell me about her wedding. The happy couple actually have a bit of a timeline; hopefully sometime in autumn. She showed me her veil that she bought three years ago! It was so beautiful. She will be stunning on her wedding day, I know it! She began to ramble about plans, but I was right along with her. I was happy for Martha, but Adelaide's marriage seems more personal. I suppose it is because I helped it happen. Or simply perhaps because I am closer with her. 
She then asked me if I would like to help her find a wedding dress. I was honoured that she asked me, and of course I agreed! I think it will be quite pleasant. I believe I may have found a best friend!

We will probably do it next week sometime.  I will remember to write about it for you!


Best wishes,
-Miss Brown

Risky Buisiness

I went through a large range of emotions yesterday. Perhaps you'll be able to pick them out.


I awoke this morning feeling quite peaceful, until I remembered the task at hand. Then the butterflies began fluttering again. The same thoughts flowed endlessly through my mind: What if he hates me? What if I've missed my opportunity? Of course, there's no use worrying over the inevitable, so I set out to find Sky. I immediately realized I had no idea where I could find him. The only person I could think of who would know was Nicely Nicely Johnson. Nicely told me he saw Sky earlier at a cafe called Artigiano on Broadway and I went there at once. 


I walked in and saw Sky sitting alone at a table in the corner. I felt my stomach squirm, but I knew I had to keep going. I walked over and sat down. He seemed quite surprised to see me, but he didn't say anything.
I began by telling him I was sorry. I said that I had realized it was wrong for me to simply assume he was behind the crap game in the Mission. He was resentful at first, but he soon understood that I meant what I said. When I finally brought myself to tell him that I really do love him, rather than saying he did or did not return my feelings, he apologized. He apologized for making the bet.

He wanted to explain it from the beginning, so I will as well. Nathan was having trouble finding a location for his crap game, but Joey Biltmore offered him his garage for the price of one thousand dollars. Nathan did not have a thousand dollars to give Mr. Biltmore, so he made a bet with Sky that he could not take me to Havana. Sky could not pass up a bet, so he accepted. He told me, "At first it was just a bet, but I found myself feeling something more for you. I genuinely care for you, and I'm sorry." I simply smiled at this, but on the inside my mind was reeling.

We left the cafe and walked hand in hand down Broadway. It didn't have to be said, but it was understood. Sky Masterson and Sarah Brown are going steady.


Lots of love,
-Miss Brown

Butterflies

I've heard the expression "butterflies in your stomach" but never before have I experienced it myself. Until now, that is. All I can think about is how Sky may react to what I have to say. What if he's angry because my emotions are all over the place? What if he thinks I'm silly and won't ever be with me? These scenarios scare me. I had my fair share of loss when I was a young girl, and since then I have always run from it. I suppose taking risks is just another part of life.

All the best,
-Miss Brown

At Wanemaker's and Sak's and Klein's

The Mission has been full of people lately. A few people stopped coming, but a few started as well. I feel as though we are truly helping people find God. Of course, everyone's beliefs are slightly different, but I have faith that God can help anyone find their way, no matter what.
 
I bumped into Miss Adelaide again today. At first I did not recognize her, but we started a conversation and I remembered. It seems her engagement, which had her so happy a few days ago, had been broken. She seemed absolutely heartbroken. I tried to comfort her, but I had no luck. She was too distraught about wasting fourteen years with this man, and what she would tell her mother. Her pain reminded me of my own, and I'm embarrassed to say that I began to cry. She gave me a hug, which was comforting. 
We were pondering whether men could ever change when I pointed out that the gamblers at our prayer meeting acted like they could change. At this news, Adelaide jumped up and asked if a man named Nathan Detroit was there. We was, of course, so I told her so. I will never forget her response to this. She said, "That dirty rat! Just when he should've been lying, he's telling the truth!" How amusing. I think she and I will become good friends! 
She then had an idea. Why not marry the man today? Rather than sigh and sorrow, simply marry him today and change his ways tomorrow. Her explanation was, "At Wanamaker's and Sak's and Klein's, you can't get alterations on a dress you haven't bought!" 
Of course, she's right. A man won't be willing to change without commitment. Adelaide and I are confident that we can get Nathan and Sky on the right track. We have decided that in three days' time, we will talk to them and apologize for severing our relationships. I'm nervous. What if he hates me? What if he doesn't want to go steady with me? I will pray that is not the case.


Wish me luck,
-Miss Brown

A Quick Message...

Since the meeting, our success at the Mission has greatly increased. Some of the gamblers seem so have spread the word, and some have even come back for advice! We have had many men and women seeking God come to us in the past three or four days. I won't mention names of course, as I'm sure they would prefer that information remain private, but I'm very inspired by their courage. 

Martha has told me some wonderful news. She and her beau have gotten engaged and the wedding is in December! I'm ever so happy for them, but now I feel like one of those typical women in films who are always moping about being reminded of how painfully single they are, and how the man they love does not return their feelings. Oh, how I don't want to be one of those women! Especially when "the man I love" happens to be Sky Masterson. Ah, well, I'll try to focus on the Mission and being happy for Martha. 

All the best,
-Miss Brown

What happened at Midnight?

As you all know, yesterday was our special midnight prayer meeting. At first, things seemed grim. Calvina, Agatha, Martha, Auntie an I were all present, along with the General, but no one else came. It was half past twelve when we decided it would be best to call off the meeting and, to my dismay, close the Mission. 

 It was at that very moment that something amazing happened. Thirteen men walked through our front door and sat in the chairs arranged in a circle. Bringing up the rear was, you guessed it, Sky Masterson. I suppose he is a man of his word after all. He made sure everyone had made their appearance, but he promptly said he had a flight to catch and wished us good luck. The General couldn't have been more impressed, and I thanked God - and Sky - silently.

One man, I believe he was the infamous Nathan Detroit, seemed to be in charge of the twelve gamblers. He prompted a few men to make their testimonies. They were hesitant, but I was surprised at their stories and how they actually seemed willing to change. A man named Nicely Nicely Johnson was the first to come forward and really confess to his sins. He spoke of a dream he'd had, in which he was on the boat to heaven. He offered the passengers to gamble and drink with him. He said the consequences of his sins caused him to fall overboard and begin to drown. I think this is a beautiful metaphor for the course sinful actions can take you on. I am hopeful we can reach other sinners like this man. 

Nathan Detroit also testified. He began by admitting that he used the Mission to host his crap game. He then admitted that he had bet a certain guy one thousand dollars he couldn't take a certain doll to Havana. (Sound familiar?) He was going to use the money to rent the Biltmore garage and have the game. He won the bet, so now he can rent it, but, as he told us, he's not so sure he wants to finish the game. 

Now, I have no idea why he wouldn't want to finish the game, (perhaps a crisis of faith?)but let's go back to the part when he mentioned he had won the bet. This must have been the same bet Sky told me about, but he won that bet. The only explanation is that Sky told Mr. Detroit he hadn't managed to bring me to Cuba. Perhaps Sky is not as disrespectful as I had assumed. Perhaps he really did love me. No use getting my hopes up, however. I doubt I could handle another disappointment. 

Sincerely, 
-Miss Brown

A Memory

The meeting is tonight, and I'm beginning to worry. The General is expecting an excellent performance, and twelve sinners. I have ideas planned, but I still have no way of convincing anyone to come. Obviously, the Havana fiasco has left me wondering about many things, one of them being if Sky will keep to his word. I doubt it.


Speaking of Sky, there is something I seem to have forgotten to mention. The memories are a bit hazy, but I remember something he said in Havana. We were arguing. I didn't want to go back to New York, but he thought it was for the best. He became frustrated and exclaimed, "The only reason I took you to Havana was because I made a bet!" Or words to that effect. At the time, I pushed this comment aside, without realizing the significance of it. I remember, to my embarrassment, I said something like "How else would a girl meet a gambler?" How absolutely silly! It makes sense now, however. One of the other gamblers bet Sky money that he couldn't take me to Cuba as a way to get me away from the city. So, obviously, he did, and when we returned the crap game was being held in our Mission! He may not have been a part of that particular scheme, but leading a woman on, just for money, is just as bad!


I must prepare for the meeting now. I will write about it tomorrow afternoon.


Wish me luck,
-Miss Brown

Dancing, Alcohol, and Gambling

Much has happened since we last spoke. Too much. I'll do my best to explain it, but it will be lengthy. I'll try to write how I felt about it at the time, not how I feel about it now. The two are so very different.


Yesterday evening, Sky and I went to El Cafe Cubana. It was a wonderful place. Kind people, beautiful view, etc. Sky ordered me what he said was a milkshake. It was delicious, so I had another. And another. It must have been something stronger than a milkshake, because soon after, I lost myself.
A beautiful Cuban dancer left her partner and came over to our table. She asked Sky to dance, and he accepted. For some reason, I felt a surge of emotion. Jealousy took over, and I found myself dancing with the Cuban woman's partner. I suppose this was an attempt to make Sky jealous too. Of course, it failed. Next I did something sinful, and I beg the Lord for forgiveness. I slapped her. I hit the woman with whom Sky was dancing. She hit me back. We began to fight, causing the entire cafe to erupt into a chaotic frenzy. I don't know exactly how long I was fighting with this woman, but eventually Sky pulled me away to the beach.
It wasn't until after the effects of the alcohol wore off that I began to regret what I did, so I was still giddy with adrenaline. I did another mad thing. I kissed Sky. I kissed Sky Masterson. I don't know how, but one simple gesture opened up a whole new part of me that I never even knew existed! I had the time of my life. If I were a bell, I would have been ringing! Sky then suggested we go home. I didn't want to, so I protested, but he insisted. We got on the plane and headed back to New York.


When we arrived home, finally sober, it was four in the morning. We were walking down the street when we met a woman. She already knew Sky, and he introduced her as "Miss Adelaide". She had recently gotten engaged, and seemed very much in love.
I think this inspired Sky, because he started to change. He told me he loved being out at night, and this was "his time of day". He then said that I was the only doll he'd ever wanted to share it with him. I couldn't believe this was happening. He then shocked me even more. He told me his real name: Obediah. I knew then that I had fallen in love with him. I had never been in love before, but I felt the confidence to profess my feelings. After they had poured out, we kissed. It was a magical moment.Obviously, we had kissed before, but this was different.
Unfortunately, our moment was interrupted by Auntie and the girls. They asked me where I had been, but our conversation was short lived. A group of men ran out of the Mission, crying, "Canasta!" It was Nathan Detroit and his illegal, floating crap game, closely followed by Lieutenant Brannigan.
It was common knowledge that Mr. Detroit had been out of luck finding a venue for his crap game.  I then understood why Sky had taken me to Havana. Not because he had feelings for me, but so the gamblers could use our Mission for their game! How could he play with my feelings like this?

I knew it would be a risk to fall for Sky Masterson, of all men, but I never knew my heart could be broken like this. I don't know why I ever trusted a gambler. One thing is for certain, I won't make that mistake again. It's no good. When I told Sky that, he asked, "What the hell kind of doll are you, anyway?" 

Well, Sky, I'm a Mission doll.


Yours truly,
-Miss Brown

Hola!

Greetings from Cuba! Our plane landed a few hours ago at the airport in Havana, and since then Sky and I have done quite a bit of sight-seeing. The architecture here is beautiful, and the history is fascinating. I particularly enjoyed visiting El Capitolio and seeing the cupola. Sky and I have already had our dinner, and the food was simply delightful! Everyone in Havana is very hospitable. I believe I've fallen in love with the culture! 


At the moment, Sky is calling for me to hurry, as he's been meaning to show me a nice cafe on the beach called "El Cafe Cubana", so I must be off!


Hasta luego,
-Senorita Brown

I Am Insane.

Today, as we were walking back to the Mission for lunch, Auntie, the girls and I were approached by none other than the Mission General! She told us that she had no time to join us, but she had an important announcement to share. I knew as soon as I saw her that she brought news with her, but at this point I began to worry. She turned to me and she said, "Sarah, I am afraid we must close this branch of the Mission down. Our efforts might be better served elsewhere." This information came as quite a shock to all of us. I know we could be doing better, but we are still trying! I tried to persuade her to let us continue for a few days, until after our prayer meeting, but she did not comply. Not until our favorite sinner arrived, anyway. 

Sky Masterson, for of course it was he, decided it would be best if he took the initiative. He told the General that he believed in what "Sergeant Sarah and her Mission" were doing, and that he believed we were "making a great deal of difference". He neglected to mention his history in gambling, however. Somehow, this seemed to entice the General a bit. She listened to every word as Mr. Masterson suggested she herself come to our midnight prayer meeting. He handed me a piece of paper behind her back as she thought about her answer. It read:

Sky Masterson

One dozen, genuine sinners.

Of course, it was his "marker", referring to his previous offer of providing twelve sinners for our prayer meeting, if I had dinner with him. In Havana. Cuba. At that moment, I was overcome with a surge of emotion. I don't know what it was. Perhaps hope at saving the mission.

 Anyway, before the General answered, I blurted, "General, I personally guarantee you one dozen, genuine sinners." I think I must be insane. However, she agreed to keep the Mission open until the meeting, and she also said she would come. This has put quite a lot of pressure on us to make the meeting worth while, but I can't concentrate on that now. The plane leaves at one thirty p.m. tomorrow afternoon!

I still can't believe I agreed to go to dinner in Cuba with a known gambler. The whole situation seems like a crazy, made-up story! I suppose it is for the good of the Mission, but my head is still reeling. I think I might actually be excited about leaving New York for the first time. In any case, I'm going, and it's too late to turn back now!

See you in Cuba,

 -Miss Brown

I Believe I Have a Stalker

Hello again! So sorry I haven't been writing lately. Auntie and the girls and I have been trying to find new ways to help God do His work. We've considered reaching out to the elderly people of our community, but no luck. We tried talking to children, but they did not listen. Our latest attempt has been to connect with the young women in our area. This, I imagine, will have more success than our other ideas. I believe that as I am close to their age, and I am just like them in some respects, I could relate to them, and help them see God's way.


"But Sarah!" you say, "What of that Sky Masterson you spoke of in your last entry?" I assure you, he is doing well. Unfortunately, I cannot say the same for myself at times. The day after he come to our Mission, Calvina told me she noticed him standing in the crowd as we performed our latest speech. Subsequently, I noticed him at every other announcement I made. Soon, he also appeared when I was making my way home, when I stopped at the bakery, and when I shopped my favorite boutique. I felt like I couldn't avoid him. Everywhere I went, he was there. I only ever saw him for a fleeting moment, but he was there.
By Thursday, his appearances in my personal space had come to an end, but he had graduated to openly following the Mission band and myself when we were at work.  I tried to get him to discontinue his inappropriate and frankly unnerving behavior. Each time it has failed, but he can't pursue this cause forever, can he? I hope he cannot, for his sake, and mine.


Best wishes,
-Miss Brown

Meet Mr. Masterson

The day has changed from "normal" to something I cannot describe. As it happens, my words do seem to have touched a sinner today. You may be thinking that this is a wonderful thing, as did I at first. But I assure you, it did not end as I had hoped.


A young man named Sky Masterson came to our mission this afternoon. He asked if we took sinners, and, of course, we took him in at once! He told us that his life was full of sin, as he was a gambler. He asked us to help him find the right path. We all believed him. He seemed ever so sincere. After a few minutes, Auntie and the girls left to continue our recruitment, but I stayed behind to talk to Mr. Masterson.


When we were alone, I gave him some helpful pamphlets and informed him about our midnight prayer meeting next Thursday, June thirteenth. He accepted the pamphlets and quickly said he would attend the meeting, but he seemed to be rushing to say something else. What he wanted to do was invite me to dinner. When I refused, he offered to repay the favor by making sure at least a dozen sinners came to our prayer meeting. He seemed to think no one would come otherwise, and secretly I agreed. His offer was tempting, so I asked where the restaurant was. His answer was, if can you believe it, Havana! Havana, Cuba! Sometimes I believe men are complete dogs. I am ashamed to say it, but I lost a bit of control on my temper. We argued about love and the perfect partner. However, when he started to describe the perfect love, he seemed sweet and charming. I was even considering going to Havana with him... until he kissed me. I was stunned at first, frozen in position, but then I regained my senses. How dare a man who had hardly made my acquaintance make such advances?  Once again I lost my temper. I slapped him. I feel he deserved it. But at the same moment, I feel ever so slightly that feeling of guilt. No matter, I just hope I mustn't see Sky Masterson again.

 Yours in Christ,
- Miss Brown

Our Best Efforts

Today was just the same as any other day here in New York, except today Auntie suggested we venture out into the more crowded, more sinful center of Broadway. We hoped to reach more gamblers there, but we had no such luck. I gave my best speech, but people seemed to have no interest. The day is not over, however, so I am still hopeful someone has heard our words and is ready to seek refuge from this jungle of sin! 

Pray I am right,
 -Miss Brown

Intro to Sarah

Hello everyone! I don't think I will be any good at this, but Auntie said it would keep me busy, so I'll try. I suppose I should start by introducing myself and my friends and family. My name is Sarah Brown and I am twenty-one years old. My mother died in childbirth and my father died of tuberculosis shortly thereafter. My mother's sister, Arvide, has been taking care of me ever since. She and I run a small Mission in New York close to Broadway. Recently we have been going to Broadway trying to recruit members. I will give you updates on our progress on resisting the Devil. Other members of our mission include Calvina, Agatha, and Martha, who form our own little marching band. I don't understand why anyone would be interested in my life, but for Auntie, I'll refresh your knowledge none the less!

Until the next time,

-Miss Brown