7

Alabama

"Holly House"

8

too far or weather too bad for Muggie in case of ill-
ness and trouble. No needy Negro in sickness was for-
gotten. In case of death she was the first arrival if
not already at the bedside. It is legendary that in event
of a death her brother-in-law the resident physician had
ministered to the deceased she shrouded them and Frank drove
them to the cemetery, making the exit a "family affair."

This of course is a local tale, but for perhaps hald
a century Frank did drive the dead in this family to the
cemetery, using a wagon drawn by the family horse or mule;
and he always drove with his pipe lit and coat sleeves
rolled to the elbow.

Their home was the home of the local telephone office
and Frank was in charge. In his later years his hearing
became defective and during his evening "nap" he would
tie a string connecting the telephone bell to his toes,
so the ringing would awaken him. He is remembered now
delivering his death messages. The older element of the
village dreaded his approach lest the message contain
bad news. The young people anticipated date-making and
hailed him with joy.

The grand old couple looked out of the west window
together. On a beautiful Easter morn she passed out. The
time was fitting. He soon joined her.

Washington Copy

10/11/38

L.H.

606