or New York, where great journalism is practiced daily. I would like to write about politics in Washington, or maybe even travel the world."

My mother was aghast. "How could you possibly travel the world with a wife and child in tow? And what about all the diseases you will encounter? And the brigands, four flushers, reprobates, flannelmouths? Would you expose Mallie and the baby to them?"

"Of course not. I was just thinkin' out loud, is all."

"Oh, William, let's not argue. We're on the way to see your new daughter!"

She was right, and for the rest of the trip, we never broached the sensitive subjects of my education (or lack of it) or profession again.

When the train pulled into the Denver station, I couldn't believe my eyes. There was Mall...

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