Hunter College High School - Argus Yearbook (New York, NY)

Page 41 text:

Subway Study by Anna Hertz IF it hadn't been for that sudden lurch of the train as it ferociously made the bend and shrieked its way into Queensboro Plaza Sta- tion, I would never have noticed her. As it was, I had been caught unawares with a Physics text clutched wildly in one hand and an armful of other school paraphenalia in the other, and I had all I could do from depositing my entire self upon her somewhat spac- ious lap. Only my purse and an unfortunate notebook made the hapless fall. Gingerly, I picked these latter up, mumbling some- thing quite inadequate in an attempt to excuse myself. I had gotten no further than the first word, however, when she broke out with-- f'You clumsy person, what do you mean by dropping your belongings upon me this way? Why, when I was your age, I daresay we were taught a bit more respect for our elders. What- ever is this world coming to that a body can't sit in a train peace- fully mindingiher own business anymore without fear of-why of the Lord only knows what-falling down on her head! By now, the eyes of every person in the train had focussed in our direction and I could feel a slow red creeping about my ears, What could I say without making myself more conspicuous? VVhen I had gained my equilibrium I took a look at the indig- nant woman before me. Two bright-red spots had appeared in her cheeks during the course of her outburst. They gave her a wild and garish look. Her black eyes, below a pair of bushy brows seemed to flash sparks of fire at a contemptible world. I-Ier cheek- bones were high and her nose was very straight and rather dis- tinguished looking. Cnce her hair had probably been glossy black and plentiful, but now, what was left of it was hidden under a severe black hat with only a few graying hairs escaping, as though it was ashamed of itself. I let my eye wander over the rest of her appearance. She wore a dark and sharply tailored suit and her rather large but well- gloved hands held, defiantly possessive, a worn leather case. I-Ier stockings were of practical lisle and her shoes conservative and well-polished. The man next to her just then got up and battled his way to the door as I thankfully dropped into the empty seat. When thirty-nine I -i

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I Wish I Were I wish I were a million miles away from this dull place- A million miles away - beneath a tropic sung And that the thing I fear and dread, I'd never have to face, My failures all wiped out - I'd just begun. I wish I were a million miles away, beside the sea To watch the flying fishes acrobatics My mind and body rested and forever free f- A million miles away from mathematics! thirty-eight Ilma Schramm

Page 42 text:

I had settled myself, I took another look at my quick-tempered neighbor. The red spots were disappearing from her lined cheeks and her eyes, having ceased to snap, had actually taken on a more amiable look. Before I knew it, she was whispering something to me, her eyes by now, twinkling with amazing friendliness. HI am sorry I was rude, girl. I guess you'll have to forgive an old woman's hot temper. Very embarrassedly I murmured that it was all right. Then she took out a morning newspaper, and began to read the financial section avidly. I resumed my much disturbed Physics homework but in a few minutes the train arrived at my station, and I left my odd friend much absorbed in an article on 'AI'Iow to Plan Your Spring Garden . Aff .six forty