Acts of God by Ellen Gilchrist

Author:Ellen Gilchrist
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Publisher: Algonquin Books
Published: 2014-02-13T21:50:31+00:00

The Dogs

September 14, 2002

Dear New Neighbors,

I was out in my yard this afternoon and noticed the man you hired to repair the fence between our property. It’s my fence by the way, but I’m glad to share it. Let me introduce myself. My name is Rhoda Manning and I live behind you in the Carl Jeans house. I also own the lot beside us to the north.

The fence man said you have three dogs. I hope they don’t bark as I live very quietly. I am a writer and work in my house so it is important for me to have quiet in the mornings. Or while I’m sleeping in the afternoons. I bought the empty lot to keep anyone from starting a building project while I am working.

I was bitten by a dog several years ago and am very sensitive to dogs barking. I know you won’t let them become a problem and I welcome you to our neighborhood and hope to meet you soon. If you see me in the backyard please call and come over.

There used to be a stile between our yards but the past owner of your house asked me to take it down as he had a nice, quiet sheepdog who liked to escape by climbing it.

I miss the stile. I used to climb it pulling hoses to water the trees on the lot. I hope you enjoy the trees, especially this fall when they turn glorious colors. There are six sugar maples, three oaks, and one lonely little dogwood that isn’t doing very well. The daughter of our neighbors on the other side, Jenny and Bob Hingis, used to water the trees for me when she and they were young. She is a gifted pianist who is at the University of Chicago now studying music. Anyway, welcome to Lighton Trail.

With all good wishes,

Rhoda Manning

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