The old man’s eyes literally begin to twinkle.  “I should guess I did know Helen Stark.  I spent a lot of time talking to Harmon at the coffee shop on Saturday mornings.  We joined the Army together, and both got home safely by the grace of God.  Well, shuck a dern!  Harmon’s granddaughter!  I should have known!  You have your grandmother’s jawline.  Boy, when that jaw jutted forward and was set, you better duck for cover.  She once threw a glass of water on me because she was mad about something disrespectful I had said to her.  I was just kidding around and she didn’t think it was funny.  Harmmon and I weren’t allowed to see each other for almost two months after that.  Helen and Sara still spoke, though.  Sara finally made me go over there, hat in hand, and apologize.

Had to promise never to say anything like that in Helen’s  presence again.  That woman’s forgiveness made you feel like the Pope had just provided you with a blessing.”  He laughed louder this time.

“Sir, I really need to go now.  It has been nice chatting with you.  I am sure your wife will be here in just a few minutes.”  I leaned over the man, so that I could be sure he would hear me.  As I straightened up, I nearly knocked down a beautiful elderly woman.