THE SENTINEL
AWAY WITH WORDS 

By Tessa Harvey

    Polly felt warm and comfortable. She tried to stretch but winced as something hurt. Opening her eyes she at once realized that "this is not Kansas, Toto!" and suddenly realizing where she must be, moved to sit upright, being very embarrassed. A school sick bay!
    "Are you feeling better?" a kind adult voice asked. This must be matron.
    "Look," Polly tried to compose herself and speak firmly and with clarity. "I am so sorry. That was not meant to happen. You see i just wanted to visit a dear friend and then go home. If Esmay is too busy I can leave now, you know."
    Gathering her wits and her handbag balanced on a nearby school chair, Polly reached forward. She felt giddy but tried to hide the fact. "I am a high school teacher," she spoke to herself, firmly. What a terrible way to behave!
    "Having a wee bit rest?" chuckled a familiar voice. Polly Stanton was overjoyed to hear her former pupil's voice but realized from her faint Scottish accent, she was a little upset. "I was just passing and thought of a wee bit visit," she bantered.

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