I never thought about it, I guess. Today, it doesn't make any sense at all, but I was so out of it then I guess I thought it made sense. You had already been baptized at ST. Boniface in Peoria. I don't know if you remember that day but everyone in that sanctuary remembers it. When you and your sister were annointed with oil you both puckered up and started crying. You both looked at me and said, Mommy, this man is bad. He's trying to open my sweater. Well, Father turned beet red and I apologized and explained what I had taught you. Then your Godparents and I got the giggles because you really shook up that priest. He was so relieved when we left. I still have beautiful memories of you.

Back to the destruction of our family. I was told there would be a court date set and would have to appear. He told me it would be in a few months. I asked if we had to appear together. NO. My reasoning, I didn't think we could handle it. I was right.

I appeared in court on 15 January 1960 at 9:30 AM. During the proceedings I was threatened with contempt of court and told to sit down and keep my mouth shut. I told the judge, Fine, you know this is wrong and you've destroyed my family so who the hell cares. Another threat of contempt. I wasn't even allowed representation. I had a priest from Catholic Social Services.

Then the side door opened and in came these two little waifs in hand-me-down clothes and shoes that didn't fit. You ran to me and clung to me and we were all in tears. Diana's great big crocidile tears and you trying to be so big and brave. Do you remember what you said to me? You said, Mommy, please don't let them take me away. I love you and if you're sick I'll take care of you. My child, you were only 5 years old. I've lived with these words for the past 40 years.

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