Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 14:28 — 13.2MB)
Laura Montgomery had married Fred Evans, and now she reflects on her life of 20 years earlier. She remembers both the happy and sad times that have tied the bonds of marriage securely. The young couple wed without her father’s permission. He was doubtful of the lad’s industriousness, and warns his daughter that no wife has ever reformed her husband after marriage. Going into it realizing they may never be well off, Laura’s mother advices her to look for other traits of a good life long mate.
Starting out with a service station and a small cottage, the young couple start their career. Fred is the sole employ and begins to wear thin as he covers the long hours. Laura insists she help pump gas, and things go well until the first baby comes along. A car crash evaporates their savings and the baby is lost. Though they seem to have to start from square one, silver cords grow as they endure the hardships.
Their third year brings another child, then more follow. Fred is feeling down, since he feels he can’t provide money to spend. Laura assures him the family doesn’t need it, since there’s plenty of love to spend. Being a good wife and mother is the important thing in teaching the kids about religion, morality and citizenship. Is it more important to recognize truth when they hear it, or know they have a father with pockets full of money? Her support makes Fred feel strong and masculine.
Years go by and the older boys help at the gas station. Mortgages are paid off, and they still live in the same 5 room cottage. Deep within them is the knowledge that with the ebb and flow of life, they have built a good marriage. A thing of beauty.
