1 April. When I met Mr Kwŏn at the tea-room ‘Rose’ we felt quite natural as if we had known each other for a long time. He made me sit beside him and ordered the coffee without asking me whether I wanted it or not. He had by him a red-covered book which turned out to be Grace Metalious’ Peyton Place. When he saw me eying it he said, ‘It was sent to me by a close friend from the time I was in America. Would you like to borrow it?’ I was delighted. Besides, I now knew that he had been to America. I was dying to ask him which state, and for how long, but I refrained. I might have appeared vulgar to show too much curiosity in someone else's private life. But I am sure his experience will be helpful when my time comes. Probably his polished manners and the refinement in his clothing are thanks to his American experience. He praised me twice today. I know it is a weakness but when he praises me I get excited and silly.

‘ You look very nice in that dress. It reminds me of a fashion model I knew once in the States.’

‘Goodness!’ I thought as I blushed. I was wearing my marine blue dress with a black satin belt tied in a bow at the back. I had a matching pair of high heeled shoes. As we came down the stairs I caught my reflection in the long mirror on the landing. With a black handbag slung over my shoulder and red-covered book tucked under my arm, I did look nice. From a few steps behind, he said again, ‘You do look smart, Sukey.’

I turned to face him, and looking up said with mock severity, ‘You shouldn't make complimentary remarks to a lady's face.’

‘Oh, I am sorry. I do apologize.’ He bowed from the waist. His quick and witty reaction made me laugh and he delightedly chuckled in his turn. We went to a Western restaurant. He asked me whether I liked dancing.