I just sat down in my easy chair to read my newspaper. Lookimg for any good news wasn't an option. The paper was full of tragedies, accidents, shootings, stabbings and various other forms of mayhem. It's a violent world we live in. The Arabic countries and Israel were trading rockets and car bombs. This Middle East fighting has gone on for centuries and probably always will.

"Mister Franklin?"

She startled me. I'd forgotten she was here. "Yes, dear?"

"I hope you don't mind that I took a shower and brushed my hair and I found some ham and cheese, in your refrigerator and made a sandwich."

"Not at all. I told you to make yourself at home.

What is your name, dear?"

She looked at me with those sad brown eyes and it tugged at my heart. "I'm called Patience, but you can call me Patty, if you wish."

"Okay, Patty, where are you from?"

She stood with downcast eyes and looked at her feet. "I'm sorry, Mr.Franklin, but I can't tell you that."

"Patty, you can tell me. I won't call your parents, although I'm sure they're worried sick wondering where you are."