Ray Dailey's Short Story: A Day At Home

Ray was only alone for a few moments, contemplating the splendid architecture of grand old mansion. Beautiful, but a little out of date he thought. Then the Professor made his appearance. “Why Ray Dailey. You can’t imagine what it took for Margaret to sell me on you. I never picked you out for someone who could manage seven kids!” “Believe it or not, I raised six girls and they all visited the altar before the maternity ward, so I guess I did alright,” he replied. advancing with extended palm. The two shook hands, but Ray sensed that the Professor still had not warmed up to him. “Well, I hope you understand that the chief characteristic I look for in a governess is the ability to instill order and discipline in this household and in my children. I have rules for every possible contingency. Therefore, the only thing that can ever go wrong is a violation of those rules. Do I make myself clear?” “Of course,” Ray replied. “When do I get to meet them.” “At once, of course,” the Professor replied naturally enough, but he then astounded Ray by pulling a penny whistle from his jacket and sound off three shrill notes. In response, the house literally flooded with children running from every direction. The pandemonium further astounded Ray, but not nearly so much as what happened next. The riot of children
I care about my kids future more than anything in the world. But for my kids to find their future, they must know their pasts. They are negro children, African-American people from a long and very proud lineage, and I won’t be having them forget that. Now, if I may suggest, instead of asking questions just watch and listen and learn our ways in this house. And you can begin by reading over this roster of daily activities for each of the children. You’ll see some activities are in groups, and others are solitary. All are equally important and you must adhere to this schedule without the slightest