Of Psychometrists and Candy Bar Contests

Dear W,
I'm so sorry I didn't get to meet your grandmother in person; but we talked a few times at length. She sure sounds like a jolly person - vital, eager, curious, enthusiastic - much as I imagine you are. She had a wonderful tour company! She had seen or was going to see anything I was going to suggest. And, indeed, some even I had forgotten. I was amazed. She never sounded tired, but I don't think she got much sleep. She's a gal after my own heart: go-go-go, sleep and relax when you get home. See everything you can. She even got to Maui, so she might enjoy seeing your folder of that Island. I'd love to be a fly on the wall, and hear her tell you of different places and things. Be sure and say hi to her for me.

Thank you for being so sympathetic about my stamp collection. Of course, it was mostly my fault for not realizing this tropical atmosphere can wreak havoc where you least expect it. Soon I shall write to you about Diamond Head where I lived in the lovely old broken-down mansion. No, I didn't mean a Wendy's stand was put up there when the house was torn down (that would never have been allowed). It was the owner of Wendy's - a multi-millionaire, I imagine. He would have to be to put up the gorgeous house made to his specifications.

No, I wasn't a teacher at the University of Hawaii. My official title was psychometrist (sigh-com-ee-trist) which means I measured psychological variables such as intelligence, aptitudes, and emotional disturbances. In plain words, I tested normal and abnormal children in public schools on all the Islands (except Niihau). As I never would test after 12:00 o'clock noon (when they might be tired and not do their best), it meant I had long afternoons and evenings for sightseeing. I was allowd to stay in the best hotels (fine food and exceptional Hawaiian shows of dancing, singing, fire throwing, etc), and had to rent a car - so I could go-go-go, too.

I lived in Washington, D.C. for about a year, and saw all the things you mentioned. I was so sorry the new little panda died. How are you coming on the candy bar contest?

Love,
E.R.G.