PIANO 7

                                                      PIANO 7

    Rip arrived at the Turner building just as an ambulance was pulling

away. Turner, the sheriff, Luigi and several others were milling about

as the ambulance left. Rip hurried over to where Turner and the sheriff were talking. As Rip approached, Turner looked relieved as he told Rip, "She's  not dead, thank God. The man who found her was so excited he made a mistake." Rip was relieved to see Luigi there, safe and sound. But he still didn't know who the injured person was. Turner realized Rip was in the dark about identity, and quickly filled him in. "It is Marta, who we know as the cleaning lady," he said. "Although she's a lot more than that." Turner invited  them into his office for a briefing.

    Luigi began the talk by describing what they knew about the injury. "One of the early employees on the way to work found Marta on the

sidewalk outside. She had apparently fallen and struck her head. She didn't look very good, and the man jumped to conclusions. It looks like the heel of her shoe broke off or came loose, causing her to fall," Luigi explained. Turner piped in some personal information about Marta. "She is not just the cleaning lady," he said. "She is the person who cleans and preserves the parts for our sensitive instruments. She is a musician as well, and is very knowledgeable about the parts and workings of the instruments. She is a good musician, but wasn't able to crack the big time, and we were fortunate to get her, Turner said. "I pay her well so she'll stay with us." 

    The four men breathed a collective sigh of relief, and Turner reminded

them Marta could still have serious problems from the blow to the head.

"I'm certain she'll at least have a concussion," he reminded them. "You

never know how they may be affected from an accident like this. Luigi,

you know Marta best, and you also know her husband. What can you add to the mix? Luigi thought for a minute, and then offered some comments. "For a non performing musician as she is now, she's as good as you'll find" he said. "Glenn is right. She'd be awful hard to replace. I visit with her husband frequently, and he is a very intelligent gentleman. He tells me Marta has been wrestling with some religious problems lately, and seems upset because she doesn't understand the bible. She's a believer like me, who's never really learned or understood the bible. We both get lost and confused between procedures and things not seeming to be connected. Her husband is not really into religion, and we usually talk about other subjects."

    "That's very interesting, Luigi," thoughtfully commented the sheriff.

Luigi had some excitement in his voice as he suggested, "Maybe Marta

could be helped by talking to a woman about scripture. Our faith is dominated by men, and sometimes a woman needs to talk to another

woman. Honey is musical and knows about scripture. Rip, would you ask

Honey to visit Marta?" "An excellent idea, Luigi," responded the sheriff.

"Rip, do you think Honey would be comfortable with that," he asked. Rip answered quickly, "I'm sure she would like to meet Marta. After all,  they're both into music and both women. I'll discuss this with her and see if we can set up a visit." As they were leaving, the phone rang, and the receptionist told Turner it was the hospital. He said, "Are you sure?" Then a big smile broke over his face as he told the men, "She's got a bad

headache, but no concussion. They're keeping her overnight to be sure,

but expect rest will result in complete recovery."

    Rip returned to his car relieved that the situation was not as bad as

first believed. He called Honey with the good news. "Can I meet with you

this afternoon to discuss your "perhaps" place in this matter?" Honey

responded with regret in her voice, "I can't this afternoon, Rip. But, how

about we talk about this on our date?" Rip couldn't hide disappointment 

in his voice as he reluctantly agreed to the suggestion.  "It's not exactly

what I hoped for, but being with you is always great, no matter the  subject," he said, recovering a bit. "You say the nicest things," she laughed. "I'll see you tonight."

    Rip returned to his office and had just begun work when the senior pastor knocked on the door. Rip told him to come in, as he hadn't yet

started work. He told him of the development at Turner Music. "I hope this detective work isn't taking too much of your time," the pastor commented, in a questioning way. "Oh, no," Rip answered. "Actually

I'm given the opportunity to present scripture and Christianity to new

people we don't see in church. I found it amazing how scripture can be

used in explaining regular life." The pastor was impressed. "I'm really

glad to hear that, Rip. I have two subjects to share with you. The first is

to request you to present our annual Thanksgiving message. I will be

away, and you get the call." Rip was very pleased to hear this, and gave

an enthusiastic, "Wonderful! I'm really looking forward to it!"

    "You may not be so enthusiastic about my second subject," the pastor

warned. "You may not be aware, but you and a certain young lady have

become somewhat of a speculative item recently. I'm not surprised,

because it's normal to have gossip in the church. Perhaps the most

sinful trespass among congregationists is the Commandment concerning

false witness. That's what gossip really is. Rip, I have no reason to

counsel you on this except it's my duty to speak about it. As a single

young pastor, you will be the subject of gossip, especially among the

women. Some create fantasy worlds, and you become one of the players.

I know you and Honey are working together on the piano case, and there's

nothing wrong with that. She's a talented and beautiful young woman,

and I believe you are blessed to have her company. I only want to

remind you that there will be talk, and some won't be nice. It could

affect your pastoral future if it gets out of hand. I know you're level

headed and dedicated to the ministry, so I'm not concerned." Rip 

listened intently, and was not surprised at the pastor's words. Being

aware of such situations in other ministries, he knew what to expect.

The pastor had presented the situation in a very positive way, and Rip

was relieved that this admonition was over. "Pastor, I appreciate what

you've said and the manner in which you said it," Rip told him. "Yes,

I'm aware of the possibilities, and I'll go over the subject with Honey.

We are really great friends at this point, and I wouldn't be telling the

truth if I said I wasn't becoming serious with her. But, I'll proceed with

caution." The pastor replied, "Rip, I have every confidence in the both

of you," and with that closing remark he left.

     Rip picked up Honey for an early dinner out. It was an upscale

restaurant, but known for its good food and reasonable prices. She

complimented him on the choice. "I like this place," she said, "Because

it's quiet, the customers are reserved and there's always excellent

service. They began their meal, and Rip asked, "Where should we 

start our study?" Honey was somewhat surprise by his question,

because she hadn't realized there were multiple subjects. "What

are our subjects?" she inquired. "Well, first of all, there's your upcoming

meeting with Marta," Rip explained. Honey blew past that information,

and asked, somewhat annoyed, "And what else do we have to discuss?"

"Us," answered Rip.

    At first Honey was stunned. Then she burst out with, "Us? We're on

our first actual date and you want to talk about Us? Are you kidding me?"

Rip realized he had made a boo boo. He hastened to reply, "I really didn't

mean I wanted to pursue that subject. What I meant was we needed to

approach that subject because of a meeting I had with the pastor. I

promised I'd talk to you about us." That calmed Honey down somewhat,

but she remained agitated. "Well, I received my lecture about Us from

the pastor's wife. But I didn't intend to ruin our first date by talking about

a subject I don't consider a problem. Apparently you do. Honey was still

quite angry. Rip tried to extend his apology. "I didn't believe it was a

problem, either," he tried to explain. "I just wanted to be certain you

wouldn't be under any pressure from gossip. I pretty well know what

the pastor's wife probably told you. That's  kind of standard operating

procedure in ministry organizations." Honey was now approaching

calmness. She answered, "I don't see why that was so important it

had to come up at our first real date. You certainly are different from

the other guys I've dated. It may take me longer than 10 days to shake

myself loose from you," she admitted.

    Honey was not finished with the discussion about the joint warnings

from the pastor and his wife. "Rip, I don't like the atmosphere and attitude

I find in the church. Rather than love, I see attempts to create problems

and trouble. There is always gossip, but Christians are supposed to count

on the Holy Spirit to help them prevent or stop sins like false testimony.

Suspicion and envy seem pretty bad in church. While we're on the subject

of church, you may as well know my feelings. I'm not criticizing your

messages or teaching, but, quite frankly, I expect to learn about my

faith. I'm not getting much out of church except the "be a good person

and do good things" bit. That's not enough for me. If it wasn't for the

music, I'd be elsewhere. I've attended several churches, and they all 

seem to follow the same script."

    Rip was not expecting this detailed explanation of Honey's church or

Christianity experience. He was somewhat amazed that she saw the

situation as did he. It was good to discuss this right now, so they would 

both be on the same page. "Honey, I have to agree with you. I can tell

you that pastors for the most part deliver to the congregation what the

congregation wants. In my first church experience, the pastor was

basically a social director. The people were interested in social activities,

and didn't want to explore scripture. It was a dead church full of nice

people who thought they were saved. They did good works, but didn't

want to actually study scripture. Most of them couldn't tell you the

words of their Savior except in general to be good. That permitted some

of them to become bigots. They expanded their "goodness" to exclude

others because of different values or race. If I'm boring you, stop me.

We still have time to make the movie."

    Honey was at full attention. "Don't be silly, Rip," she responded with 

vigor. "I didn't realize a pastor, especially a young one like you, could

share the same feeling as me about Christianity. Since I'm going to

work with you on the piano mystery, I need to find out all I can about

scripture. The Christian way of life is mixed in everything we do, and

I've been seeking all my life. It appears I'm finding it in you." To say Rip

was overjoyed to hear these words would be an under statement. He

burst out with, "Honey, I can't believe you're for real! I've heard similar

comments about churches and congregations before, but usually people

become turned off from Christianity. Protestants don't like to study, and

Catholics depend on the priests for everything. Pastors have to make a

living, and few people have enough faith to rely on God's provision for

a living. This is especially true for men, who seem to be born with the

idea they alone can survive the buffet of the world."

    "Well, well," Honey exclaimed, "So you really were interested in my

body like all the other men." Rip wasn't sure if she was kidding him or

serious. Once again, she had him on the ropes. "Oh, no!" he exclaimed.

"That's not it at all." Realizing he had made another serious error, he

quickly tried to correct himself. "I mean, your body is great, but I like

your mind, too!" Well, he thought, I'd better shut up because I'm digging

the hole deeper. Honey was now enjoying his discomfort. "I've heard

that line from a couple of guys who were all eyes and hands," she said.

Rip realized he was dead meat and might as well admit it. "Honey, you're

just proving again you can nail me to the wall. I may be able to deliver

messages in church or counseling, but I'm totally incompetent dealing

with young ladies."

    Honey laughed and her eyes sparkled. "You just cleared yourself of

all charges," she said. "You are totally unlike the other guys, although

I'm aware you appreciate what you see. The difference is that you really

do care about the mind and intelligence. That's what sets you apart.

"I have a premonition that Marta's discomfort may have something to

do with the piano. I want to discuss what scriptures I may be able to

use to help her." Rip was relieved, to say the least. "Honey, it's late

and we're missing the start of the movie,' Rip warned. She quickly

responded, "Let's skip the movie. I'd rather talk about my visits with

Marta and Luigi. Let's make date number two for romance." Rip thought,

"God is smiling on me! I almost forgot about the piano!" Rip pulled 

himself back to the issue of Marta. "I believe she has some information

about something that she expects to happen or that has happened,"

Rip said. "We can go over some scriptures that would likely apply, and

may give you a starting point. If you don't know the answer, don't

fudge. If you don't know, admit you have to do research, and I'll do

my best to help. I think you have an advantage because it'll be

woman-to-woman." Honey admitted, "Rip, I'm really excited to do

this, but I'm a little scared, too".   Rip assured her, "Honey, you'll have

the Holy Spirit with you. Now let's look at some basics."

(to be continued)

Rev. Walbear

PIANO 6

                                                  PIANO 6

                              (Part 6 in a 10 part love story.)

    After choir practice, Honey joined the senior pastor's wife in the pastor's study. "The choir sounded great tonight," the lady said, as she obviously was pleased. Honey commented, "I think most of us really love to sing and praise the Lord." The lady was in her late 50s or early 60s, and was an integral part of the church's function. "I don't mean to pry or stick my nose in anybody's business, but I do want to give you a word of caution, Honey. It's not intended as advice,  either. I've worked in the church my entire life as has my husband.  I've seen my share of congregational and pastoral problems. That's  why I'm laying out some history for you. Please don't be offended, because I'm not being critical." Honey now knew pretty well what was coming.

    "When you're physically as attractive as you are, Honey, there will always be talk. You can't let it bother you, but you can't ignore it, either. Some church members are already linking you and Rip as a couple. Some of the more conservative ladies are frowning on the relationship and reading more into it than they should. Some of the younger single girls are jealous. People are people, both within and outside the church. There is nothing wrong with a friendship, but it takes on its own life when a single young preacher has a lady friend. There will be lots of talk, and the two of you make a striking pair, so you're a target of sorts."

    Honey interrupted to protest, "We haven't even had a real date yet. We've only been together in the daytime working on a project. People are getting ahead of themselves." The lady assured Honey there were  no stories going around. "I just wanted to caution you that there will be stories, and some people enhance facts to the point the story becomes totally different from the facts. I care about the future for both of you. Rip is just beginning his career in service to the Lord, and it is not an easy path to become a pastor. Sometimes small things can create problems and interfere with his maturity within the church. It is a cold, hard world both inside and outside the church. All is not always what many people think about the brotherhood and sisterhood of Christians. We are, after all, imperfect humans, and we make mistakes. What I am saying is, keep in mind Rip's reputation must be sterling if he is to move on to responsible positions in the church. The church is, after all, an organization, and breathes a tradition built from the time period going all the way back to Christ."

    Honey thoughtfully responded to the lengthy word of caution. "What I perceive is that the church isn't that much different than a business or

corporation. Politics and ladder climbing exist. Public relations are very

important. There is a basic mold that controls leadership and workings

of the church. Am I off base with my understanding?" The lady was  quick to answer. "You are pretty harsh, but people are people, and there isn't that much difference between  a company and a church, except for the product. A church's reputation decides its growth and finances. It's preachers can bring in people if the people are comfortable with the message and appearance. That is the way it is." Honey hadn't heard this type explanation previously. She hadn't considered the workings of a church organization, except to note that usually there was an established procedure of action and layers of authority. This was not welcome information, and tended to tarnish her concept of Christianity. Honey finally was able to comment. "I appreciate you taking the time to fill me in on possible problems through our friendship,"  she said. "I never realized the church community resembled a battlefield for personal agendas. What you're saying is 'beware of gossips.' It is my understanding that gossip is a form of false testimony and breaks one of the Ten Commandments. This does not speak well for Christians."

    The lady sighed, and repeated that church people were only human, and Christians ranged from newly saved to more mature status. "You must remember, Honey, that many in the church who think they are Christians really aren't. We work with all of them. That's our calling." "Yes, I can see that," Honey agreed. "I guess these possibilities don't come to mind unless the situation could or would affect you." The lady

concluded, "That's pretty well it." Honey thanked her and felt the need for some deep thought about the conversation. She didn't want to cause any problems for Rip's service to God.

    Rip, meanwhile returned home and found a message on his phone. Turner would like to talk to him about the case. Rip returned the call, and set up a meeting at Turner's office. The weekend was full of church activities, so Rip didn't arrive at Turner's office until Tuesday. They exchanged greetings, and Turner asked Rip if he had turned up any leads. "No sir," Rip responded. "I hear you folks had a good meeting with Luigi last week," Turner said. "We did, but we spent most of the time trying to help him gain his composure," Rip explained. "That was the thing to do," Turner agreed. "I've been doing a lot of thinking about this theft," Turner said. "I almost conclude there had to be some kind of inside help. Yet, the theft was so well carried out there had to be some expert professionals." Rip nodded, and said, "That seems to be the most reasonable assumption."

    "I have no idea about inside help," Turner continued, but I did recall

something that may help us." "We're grasping at straws now," Rip admitted, "So anything is welcome." Turner said, "We entertain people and groups occasionally at the business. By 'entertain' I mean provide a programmed tour. Sometimes foreign visitors want to see a 'piano factory.' The State Department requests that we help them out with a tour. Several months ago, we sponsored such a tour. It wasn't for a large group. There were only a half dozen people. Luigi handled most of the dialogue. There was a woman in the group, and she seemed to be the one who actually knew something about music and pianos. This is kind of a wild idea, Rip, but what do you think?"

    "Have you had any feedback from the visit?" Rip asked. "Not that I know of," Turner answered. "But Luigi may have been contacted. Why not check with him?" "Actually that's already planned," Rip noted, "Because Luigi agreed to meet with us again and promised to play for Honey." Turner was pleased. "The sheriff did all he could, but any further investigation was discouraged. The State Department wanted no part of it. International relations, you know." Rip hadn't seen Honey since church on Sunday. He had talked to her on the phone and they agreed to have that date this week. He was a little puzzled because  she told him she had quite a talk with the senior pastor's wife, and needed to discuss it with him. Maybe that wasn't such a good thing for date night, he mused.

    The following morning as Rip entered his office, the phone was ringing. It was Honey, and her voice shook with excitement when she told him, "Rip, there's been a death at Turner Music! I just heard over Dad's radio." Rip was shocked. "Did they tell who it is?" he asked. "No, there wasn't much information," Honey said. It apparently  happened close to or in the building." Rip thanked her for the alert, and said, "I'm headed there right away. I'll call you when I have details of the death." Be careful, Rip," Honey said with concern. "I hope and pray it isn't Luigi!"

(To be continued)

Rev. Walbear

PIANO 5

                                                      PIANO 5 

                              (Part 5 of a 10 part Valentine Series)

    Rip and Honey were stunned. "You're saying two men came on stage and had a gun in your face?" Rip exclaimed, "I can see why you have some bad memories. What happened next?" Luigi was living the experience over again, and was a bit distraught. "I froze, and expected to die," he said. Some police had entered the  far side of the stage and called out to the men. The man with his gun on me turned toward the police, and the two men headed off stage away from the police. They ran right into some other police. They shot at the police and the police fired back. Both men were hit and went down. I believe both died. A couple of theater workers helped me off the stage. The concert was over, and I was a mess for weeks afterwards. That was the end of that tour."

    "Is that when you decided to give up touring?" Rip asked. "No," Luigi, answered." I tried a tour a year later, but gave up the idea after just two concerts. The experience in Budapest had brought fear into my life, and I lost confidence in safety. I could still play very well, but I wasn't into the work as I was previously. Fear is a terrible thing." Rip asked him, "I've been told you're a Christian. Is that true?" "Yes, it is," he replied. "I'm a Catholic, and a faithful attendee at Mass." "Sometimes we can spend many years in church without hearing certain truths," Rip said. "Why?" Luigi asked, "Is fear a sin, and that's my problem?" "No, indeed," Rip answered, "But there is a way to rid yourself of fear. Fear is a strong emotion, but only a sin if it encourages you not to do something your conscience tells you to do. Then it's called the sin of omission, just the opposite of the sin of commission. There's an excellent example of the sin of omission in Matt. 25:31-45. When you can do something positive and

fail to do it, that is a sin of omission. It's like watching an assault and

failing to help."

    "I don't remember hearing that explanation before," Luigi said thoughtfully. Rip continued, "Since fear is an emotion, and not a sin, fear can be conquered." Luigi said, "I'd sure like to end this dread that kicks in sometimes. How do you go about getting rid of an emotion like fear?" Rip answered, "The same way you became an outstanding pianist." "Playing a piano or instrument isn't the same as an emotion," Luigi objected. "Oh, but it is," Rip disagreed. "The same ingredient works for just about anything. If you had a heartfelt acceptance of Christ's offer of salvation, you have access to the cure of fear." Now Luigi was really interested.

    "I am that," he claimed. "But maybe your Protestant rules are different than my Catholic rules." Rip responded, "Luigi, both the Protestant and Catholic people of faith follow the rules spoken by Christ in the four books of gospel. There are various differences in the conduct of services, but sin is the same in both, and fear is the same in both. Now, how did you become proficient in the piano?" "I studied and practiced," Luigi answered. "And as you got better and better, how did you feel?" Rip asked. "I felt great," Luigi said. Rip continued, "As you improved, you performed before more and more people, and gained their approval. Why did that happen?" Luigi thought for a few seconds, and then burst out, "I had become confident. I didn't worry about possible mistakes or a bad 

performance. I knew everything would be right!"

    Rip moved right on. "You applied yourself over a period of time studying and practicing. You wanted to conquer the difficulty of becoming a grand performer. You can conquer fear by studying scripture and seeking the help of the Holy Spirit." Luigi admitted his church experience had not included much scripture study. I left that up to the priest," he explained. "Rip admonished him. You accepted Christ's free gift of salvation and don't expect to have to do anything but wait  to go to Heaven?" Luigi moaned, "But what can I do alone. Fear isn't a sin, so I don't have to confess it. Nobody has said anything about confidence, and the Holy

Spirit is a sort of unexplained spiritual being."

    "I'll explain that for you," Rip promised. "Protestants believe the very words of Christ in the four gospels. Christ tells us in Matt. 18:20, 'For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.' Luigi you only need one other person to pray with you to seek the Holy Spirit's help. As a saved person, the power of God is in you, and it's up to you to ask for His help. You don't need me or a priest. You just have to believe Christ's word." Luigi said doubtfully, "But how can this be?" Rip followed up with the example of the miracles Christ performed, and the miracles listed elsewhere in scripture. "This is nothing new," he said. "The sad truth is that most Christians-- Protestant and Catholic--don't or won't study the bible. It's not an easy book to study, and some teaching guidance makes a huge difference. You see, Luigi, if you study and practice, you can gain that confidence you need to conquer fear. Remember, Christ said at the very end of the Great commission, Matt. 28:20, 'and lo, I am with you always even to the end of the age.' Christ and the Holy Spirit never leave you once you make a sincere

commitment."

    Luigi retraced the steps Rip had outlined. He was overwhelmed, but not to the point of confusion. "You mean I can pray with my wife, and expect to communicate directly to God?" he asked, with some doubt still in his voice. "You bet!" Rip answered. "The more believers in your group, the louder your prayers will be in Heaven. You could get over your fear instantly, but since it's an emotion, it will likely take longer. The key is to believe it will happen, and  build confidence. This doesn't mean you'll never be afraid of anything. It's normal to fear threatening things like tests and hornets, but that is a short term fear, and the subject is something usually easy to solve."

    Honey said, "Rip, it's getting late, and I need to get back to fix dad's supper." Rip agreed. "Luigi, can we come back again and talk to you?" he asked. Luigi sported a big smile and seemed much brighter and recovered from the accident. "I'm already looking forward to your next visit," he replied. "I want to pay for the beautiful young lady, and maybe hear her sing." Honey laughed, "Well, that won't be much of a treat, I'm really not good, and I don't do classical." Luigi waved her comment aside. "Music is music," he insisted. The three walked back to the cars, and headed home.

     On the way, Honey looked at Rip, and gushed, "Wow!" "What's wrong?" Rip asked. This was a different Honey than the one he had just recently met. "You really are quite a preacher," she responded. "I've gone to church for years, and I never heard such easy directions for a problem. I realize it's easy to say and difficult to do, but at least there is a way. Luigi has a wonderful story. I'm guessing he was in Budapest during the Russian-Hungarian uprising." "That would be it," Rip agreed. "I'm surprised you remember that, because you're pretty young to recall events of that time." Honey gave a big laugh. "I didn't spend all my time in school on music and planning," she exclaimed. "I like history, and both music and the bible encourage a person to research the subject."

    "Oh! Oh!" Honey exclaimed as they passed several girls on the sidewalk. "What's wrong?" Rip asked somewhat alarmed. "Those girls we just passed are from our church. They know your car and could see my blonde hair. Now they'll start up the gossip mill." Rip laughed, and shook off the implication. "You can claim this was just a business trip you had to endure!" Honey shrugged and said with some emphasis, "Yeah, they'll believe that alright!" Rip said, "Honey, I don't want to embarrass you. If you'd rather, you don't have to humor me by going with me. You have been a real help though with getting to know Luigi." Honey interrupted him, "Rip, don't be dense! I like this mystery and really enjoy Luigi. But I also kinda like your company. I'm not embarrassed in any way. In fact, if the girls are jealous, that's a bonus. And don't go preaching to me about the

sin of jealousy, envy and whatever."

    "Now it's my turn to be impressed,"he said. "You have a nice way with words. I'm going to press my luck by asking you out on a real date. How about the tried and true 'dinner and a movie?" Honey had a big smile as she said, "It's not luck, Sherlock Holmes. It's natural deduction. I'd say yes even without the mystery and Luigi. I learned something about scripture today. I enjoy having fun, but there's a lot to learn in this world.  Let's set the time. I'm looking forward to finding out more about you." Rip dropped her off at her house and was only slightly aware of his surroundings as he drove home. "She actually likes me," he thought. "she's got it all, and I'm blessed to find her."

    Honey had similar thoughts as she prepared supper. Afterwards, she went to the church for choir practice. As she entered church she met the senior pastor's wife. "Honey, can I talk to you for a few minutes after practice?" she asked. "Certainly," Honey replied, as she turned off the hall for choir practice.

(To be continued)

Rev. Walbear

PIANO 4

                      PIANO 4 ( Part 4 of a 10 part Valentine series.)

"Is somebody injured?" Rip asked. The man replied, "Yes, but I  don't think it's anything serious." Turner arrived on the scene just then, greeted Rip and Honey, and took them along as he entered the building. "This is getting hard on my nerves," he told them as the receptionist-clerk met them in the hallway. "Where's the  problem?" Turner asked. "It's in the piano room," she answered.

"Of course, it must be in the piano room," Turner concluded sarcastically. "I'm beginning to think the room is jinxed."

As they entered the room, they saw paramedics working over a man seated on a chair, and Luigi sitting in another chair, bent over with his head in his hands. "Are you hurt bad, Andy?" Turner asked the man being treated. "No, sir," Andy answered. "I was lucky the stuff almost missed me entirely." Turner turned to Luigi, and asked if he was alright. "Yes, Glenn," the obviously distraught man said, "But, I'm pretty shaky." Turner turned to the paramedics and asked, "What's the story with Andy?"

One of the paramedics answered, "He'll be fine. Some debris hit him, and it was hot and sticky. He's got light burns on his shoulder and upper arm, but nothing serious. We'll have him checked out at the hospital to be sure." Turner turned back to Luigi. "What the heck happened?" Luigi was still shaky, but had recovered enough to assess the situation. "Well, Glenn, Andy was helping me move one of the pianos. You know we park them directly under the light to get maximum vision as we work. We started to move the piano, and heard a loud pop, like a gunshot. We both ducked, and that saved Andy from being hurt pretty bad. He moved just enough that the hot glass and melting plastic only grazed him."

"So...what glass and plastic?" asked Turner. "From the light up there," Luigi said, pointing to the ceiling. There was a dark charred opening where a light had been. "The bulb somehow overheated, and actually blew up," Luigi explained. The hot glass landed on the plastic cover, melting it a little and sending it down. If it had struck either of us directly, we would have been hurt pretty bad, and if it had hit the piano, it would really have messed it up." Turner looked at Rip and Honey, and asked doubtfully, "Did we have a bad event, or did we have a fortunate event? I'm getting a little nervous over pianos."

Paul, the employee who oversaw the physical operations of the building, joined the group. "Mr. Turner, I just called the lighting fixture company. They said this was very unusual, but it did happen occasionally with high density lighting. A bulb just sometimes blows up. Usually there are no after effects and the light covers are not destroyed as they were here." Turner shook his head, and asked, "Paul, don't we check these lights and covers regularly?" Paul was quick to answer, "Yes, sir. In fact, we usually replace the bulbs before their expected life runs out. They tend to lose some brightness as they age, and that's when we replace them." Turner turned to Rip and Honey. "What do you make of it?"

Rip replied, "It would seem to be just an unusual happening, according to the explanation. If anyone wanted to set up an accident, it would require almost impossible chance to do much harm. They would have to have placed an older bulb in the fixture and hoped the cover would come down and create a problem. Then, the people or piano would have to be under the fixture when the bulb blew up. If we rely on science, this appears to be a rare happening." Turner agreed, but Luigi didn't appear to have the same confidence in Rip's summary of the event.

Honey enthusiastically suggested Luigi join she and Rip with coffee or tea and some history of his fabulous career of tours and cultural experiences. Turner was quick to second the idea, and Luigi for the first time perked up. Luigi admitted he could use some time to get calmed down. "There's a little cafe just down the street," he said, "And we won't even have to take our cars." Turner bid them adieu, and said he'd look around the building.

The trio got settled in the cafe and couldn't have asked for a better place to talk. It wasn't busy, it was quiet, and they could have a private discussion. Honey was leading the way for him, and that gave Rip the opportunity to consider points as they went along. He could pick up hints on how to go about the interview. Honey asked Luigi if he only played classical music. Luigi surprisingly said, "No. As a matter of fact, I played blues, jazz and doobie do when I entered college. But then I got interested in history and culture, and " I became a student of serious music. God blessed me and my work." Honey said, with some excitement, "Will you play something for me?" Luigi now had brightened up, and said "I'd love to! I don't get to play for an appreciative audience much anymore!"

Honey continued with questions about his tours. "I understand you visited several countries. That must have been exciting!" she said, hoping for some descriptions. "It was wonderful," he said. I had concerts in London, Paris, Berlin, Rome and Budapest. I enjoyed all except Budapest." Honey asked, "What turned you off about that city?" Luigi frowned as he answered, obviously recalling something very distasteful. "It was a bad time to be in Hungary," he said. The people were politically stirred up, the Russians were causing trouble, and there was a lot of unrest." Honey asked, "Did the conditions cause your tour trouble?" Luigi responded so fast, he was answering her question the instant it left her mouth. "I came to know fear there!" he exclaimed with great emphasis.

"Wow!" honey exclaimed. Now Rip had the opening he had been waiting for. This could be the beginning of a trail leading to the state of mind Luigi was experiencing. "What happened?" Rip interjected. Luigi began his answer, and you could see he was experiencing a bad experience all over again. "I was very uneasy when I arrived in Hungary," Luigi said. "I knew about the turmoil and felt it wasn't that safe. But, it was in my contract, and I was being paid to provide the musical contribution to culture. I was well received, and the government appeared to have the situation in control. There was an overflow crowd, because classical music is BIG in Budapest. There were police and checkpoints. Looking back, I see it was the calm before the storm."

Rip urged Luigi to continue, "This is a spellbinding story, Luigi. If you play the piano as well as you tell a story, I can't wait to hear you!" Luigi now appeared to actually need to continue his story. "I was given a nice introduction, and the evening's program was explained. Credits for composition and such were revealed. Then, I played my first number. It went well, and the crowd gave me a very enthusiastic reception. I got up and took a bow. While I took the bow, I heard the audience gasp. When I straightened up, I was facing two men on stage, and one had a gun barrel in my face!"

(To be continued)

Rev. Walbear

PIANO 3

                                                      PIANO 3

    The red head laughed as she answered, "Little Boy blue is the girls' nickname for Rip. You know the nursery rhyme, Little Boy Blue, Come blow your horn, The sheep are in the meadow, The cows are in the corn. The sheep are the congregation and the girls are the cows in the corn. It sort of fits." Honey had a good laugh at the explanation. "I haven't heard the girls talking about him, and I  certainly haven't heard the little boy blue part. I bet he doesn't know about it," she said. "The girls were guessing who would be the lucky one to be asked out first. They have tried to make it clear they're available, but he hasn't responded until now, and you win the jackpot," the red head explained. "Not really," Honey objected, "Because it wasn't exactly a date. I went with him on a real neat crime scene investigation."

    "This one I want to hear," the red head said questioningly. "You're saying the Rev is a cop?" "Yes and no," laughed Honey. "He's working on a case that requires religion and criminal law." The red head was

astonished. "The girls will go bonkers when they hear this." "Myra, please don't tell them. It would be a distraction he doesn't need. This case is complicated and it would be better if the other pastors don't know about it. I wouldn't want anyone to think he was shirking his responsibility at the church." The red head answered, "I won't say anything, but some of the girls probably saw you and his car already."

     Rip went to the sheriff's office to get more information about the

problems of the other business near the music building. The sheriff's clerk pulled up the files on that business. The strange thing about the robbery was the items stolen in the most recent incident. The main items stolen were 98 chairs. These were captain type chairs, with back and side rests. They had padded seats, for more comfort. It would require a good-sized truck or van to haul the chairs because they were not fold-able. They were solid oak. No one had noticed anything unusual at the business. No sightings of any kind of transport capable of hauling the chairs, let alone the other small items taken. There had been absolutely no leads, although the area of the two businesses was also residential. So...surmised Rip, we have 98 chairs and a baby grand vanishing into thin air. 

    After the afternoon spent with Honey, Rip did a little investigating about her. He was intrigued with her intended field of work. Rip came from a rural background, so he was familiar with land use, and farmers

always had to plan crops and manage soil. City planning would entail much different consideration, he realized. Honey had keen interest in

the investigation, and Rip thought her interest in music would give him

an advantage in working with Luigi. However, he had to admit to  himself that her physical appearance and sharp wit were the major reasons he was interested. He had dated pretty, well built girls before, but none had the impact of Honey. She was almost too good to be true.

    Rip had to prepare the agenda for Sunday services, and had to set

further investigation aside for a few days. Honey sang in the choir on

Sunday, but he didn't have an opportunity to talk to her. He did notice

that Myra gave him a strange smile as she said hello after services,

which puzzled him. Rip made several character assumptions of people

from their expressions and body english. In this situation, he drew a

complete blank. It wasn't a flirting smile or a joke type smile. It would

be interesting to know the source. Rip needed to talk to Luigi to find

out why the man had superstitious ideas about the theft of the piano.

This case was so strange, clues could come from unexpected sources,

including religious beliefs or culture. Usually crime investigations were

based solely on science except for racial or religious instances. These

were almost always personal attacks and didn't include theft.

     It was Thursday before Rip called Honey. "I'm going out to Turner's

business to talk to Luigi," he said. "I thought it would be great if you could go along. I'm looking at Friday afternoon." Honey answered with a tone of regret, "I can't go, Rip. I'm one of the hosts at a party Friday afternoon." Rip was a bit demoralized by her answer, but recovered. "I'm really sorry, Honey. I should've realized you have a busy social life and can't change plans at the last minute. I don't want to be a pest. I'll call you after the weekend if that's okay." She sensed his apparent disappointment as she answered, "Of course, it's okay. Just keep me advised a little ahead of time." Rip hung up, and thought, 'maybe I  should find out something about her social life, because I should have realized she must be in demand.'

    On Monday, Rip was leaving his office just as Myra was passing by in the hallway. "Myra, can I talk to you for a minute?" he asked. She replied,"Sure. What's up?" Rip hesitated, then haltingly asked, "Does Honey have a busy schedule? I don't want to pry, but I also don't want

to jump to any conclusions." Myra had that smile again. 'Aha, it's a knowing smile,' thought Rip. "So, Honey has your interest?" Myra  challenged. "Do you want the good news or the bad news first?" "I'm not sure I really want either, but suit yourself," Rip said with some trepidation. "Here goes," Myra began. Honey is known as the 'short term' gal. She has a lot of dates, but usually changes men every couple of weeks. Guys don't hold her fancy very long. On the  other hand, she has a hot reputation that isn't true. Guys like to brag, but they've nothing to brag about her. If you're interested in Honey, prepare for a short term."

    Rip didn't doubt Myra's explanation, but, being a young man, he believed things would be different for him. It's difficult for an educated

young man just beginning to conquer the world to accept the  possibility he could be dumped on such short notice. Myra seemed sincere, and she was Honey's friend. "I appreciate your candid  summary of Honey," Rip said thoughtfully. "I'm hoping she will join me in a mystery I'm working on. Meanwhile, I'll keep  in mind the warning. Thank you very much." Myra said, "I don't want to throw cold water on a possible fire, but I feel you should know about her short term interests. She is a solid gal."

    After a very, very brief period of thought, Rip decided to proceed with continuing his interest and including her in his investigation of the mystery. Fortified with resolve, he called her the next day. "Honey, I'm going to the warehouse again, and I'd like you to go along. I haven't set the day or time yet. Could you go Thursday afternoon?" His heart leaped when she enthusiastically agreed to the date. "I'm tied up until 2, if that's okay," she said. "That'll be just fine," he concluded, hanging up the phone in relief.

    After picking up Honey on Thursday, she asked, "Do you have a specific agenda today?" "I didn't have the opportunity to spend much time with Luigi last week," Rip explained. "He is very superstitious and believes in ghosts and curses. He has performed in many countries, but lives in fear. That's probably a major factor that made him decide to quit touring and take this 'safe' job. Only now, he's not so sure it's safe. Having a baby grand vanish didn't help his thinking. There is an added possibility the disappearance of 98 special chairs from the furniture business down the road could be a part of the mystery." "You didn't tell me about that," she admonished him. "There's not much to tell," he answered, "Except there has been no clue for that theft. either." So, we're looking for a baby grand piano and 98 chairs," she mused. "Looks like somebody has planned a private concert!"

    "There may be something to your theory," Rip said. "It's strange that so many things in life refer us to scripture. We are admonished to educate ourselves. This requires research, no matter the subject. It also teaches us to begin at the source, and explore the pathway to fulfillment. When I run into a problem, I'm always reminded of the verses in Matthew. Christ tells us  7:7 and 7:8, "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened." Honey said thoughtfully, "You know, I never gave it much thought before, but that advice and promise is true for any subject. Sometimes it seems difficult to be able to stick to study or research. But, success requires study and research. There isn't any shortcut."

    "Rip. I can see how you're bringing together the ministry and your

search for the piano. It's a matter of diligent seeking. I received salvation a while ago, but haven't applied myself to study scripture like I should have. Church has been mainly pursuit of music. You make me ashamed of myself," Honey concluded. "I'm afraid many members of church congregations don't follow up salvation with study. It's  human nature to try and escape work," Rip said. As they arrived at  the music building, there were a number of people milling around in front of the building. "Looks like something happened," Honey exclaimed. Rip parked the car, and the two approached the group in front of the entrance. "What's going on?" Rip asked. "There's been an accident," a man wearing a red cross vest replied.

(To be continued)

Rev. Walbear

PIANO 2

                                              PIANO 2--(Part 2 of a 10 part series)

Honey paused briefly, and then, with a big smile, said, "That sounds like fun. I have to make lunch for Dad, but I can go anytime after 1 if that's okay." Rip was relieved at her response, and said he'd pick her up at 1. "We'll be visiting a combination factory-warehouse, so you can plan what to wear. It's not a dirty place, but instruments are being repaired or built, and deliveries are being made as well as instruments and supplies arrive." Honey said, "I'll be ready."

On the way to the warehouse, Rip told Honey some of the history of the musical company. "This isn't the first problem Turner Music has experienced," he explained. "A couple of years ago, they had a fire, although damage was minimal. Last year a hoist broke and badly injured an employee. Each of those incidents was ruled accidental, but Mr. Turner is suspicious that someone is behind the problems." "I expected a dingy neighborhood," Honey said, "Considering we are visiting a warehouse. But this isn't bad at all." "No, and Mr. Turner doesn't really want to relocate. The series of problems has him  reconsidering a move."

Rip turned the car into a parking lot next to a large brick building bearing the sign 'Turner Music Company. As Rip and Honey entered the building, they were met by a burly, rough looking man. He asked them bruskly, "What are you doing here? This is private property and you are trespassing." Rip was taken by surprise. He hadn't expected this type of greeting. "I'm here on official business conducting an investigation," he replied. "You don't look like a cop," the man said. Before Rip could reply, the sheriff and Mr. Turner entered the room. "What's going on?" Turner asked, noting the strained atmosphere. "Your man doesn't want us here," Rip replied. Turner was not pleased at the explanation, and asked the man why he was so rude. The man shuffled his feet, but didn't have a reply. "I'm sorry for your miserable greeting," Turner apologized. "Come in my office, so we can discuss how you may be able to help me."

Turner motioned them all to seats, and then began his explanation. "I talked with the sheriff about not only the theft, but a mounting problem with a key man here," he explained. I have some very skilled craftsmen and artisans. The man who leads the way is also the man who works on pianos. He is a highly skilled musician and an expert in the field. When he was younger he performed in concerts all over the world. He doesn't like to travel, and when I offered him this job, I was fortunate to get him. He could make more money elsewhere. He is a strong family man, and his family is settled here. He is also a very religious man, and is quite superstitious. Now we come to your dual role. The sheriff told me you are a minister, and I hope you can ease his mind about spiritual things he believes are involved in the happenings here. He's a Catholic, so it may be more difficult for you as a Protestant, but it's still Christianity."

The sheriff spoke up as Turner paused. "When Glenn told me about his man and the religious aspect, I figured you would fill the bill as an investigator and clergyman. Turner really needs this craftsman, and fear of spiritual possibilities could cause him to leave. What do you think, Rip?" Rip thought for a minute before replying. "I'll give it my best shot," he promised. "And I'll start by regaining my manners and introducing my companion. This is Honey Bunnythorpe, a member of the choir at my church and a gifted soloist and musician. Turner seemed delighted. "I get not only a preacher-investigator, but a lovely musical lady as well. You didn't tell me about her," he scolded the sheriff. "Truth be told, I didn't know about it," laughed the sheriff.

Turner suggested they make the rounds of the building and meet some of the employees. The modest outside of the building contrasted with the ultimate spic and span of the inside. "We have to keep a strict monitor on temperature and moisture," Turner explained, "Because the instruments are very touchy. The people who work on them also are skilled musicians. The various areas are individually climate controlled." Eventually they came to a room much larger than the others. "This is the piano room," Turner explained. There were three uprights in the room, and a man was working on one. Turner took them to meet the man. "This is Luigi," Turner said. "He has been the 'piano man' for 60 years."

Luigi was a short man with shaggy white hair and horned rim glasses. When he shook hands you noticed immediately they were the hands of a musician or physician. Rip lost no time attempting to establish rapport between Luigi and Honey, who brought some musical interest to the situation at hand. "Honey is a singer and has some background in music. She'll be helping me as I look into problems here. Turner told Luigi that Rip was a priest, although not a Catholic, and he would look into spiritual aspects of the case. This seemed to perk up Luigi's interest.

The afternoon was pretty far along by the time they completed the tour of the business. The sheriff and Turner had left earlier, and Rip was surprised when he looked at his watch and saw it was nearly five o-clock. "Wow! I've really used up your afternoon!" he told Honey. "I hope I haven't made you late or miss something!" Honey responded with enthusiasm, "I wouldn't have missed this for the world! This has been an exciting experience. And you said I was a gifted musician! aren't you stretching the truth a little?" Rip laughed, "Well, maybe, but I really don't know. If I stretched the musical part a little, your good looks make up for any shortcoming."

"My, you are a gifted orator, and I can see you're also going to a pied piper in the church, too," she laughed. "Well, since you're going to be helping me, I should know a little more of your history and background," Rip inquired. "I know you have a degree, but I don't know what field it's in. Music, maybe?" She shook her head. "Nope, and you'll never guess." Rip suggested, "Teacher?" "Wrong again," she said. "Do they have a degree in modeling?" Rip asked. "No, and I may as well shock you. My degree is in land use planning". Rip was stunned. "How can that be?" he asked, adding, "What a stupid question!"

"I live with my Dad, and he is a certified conservationist and works out of the local office of the State Commission. I grew up loving nature and natural resources. I used to go with Dad sometimes when he worked in the field. It was a natural match." Rip sighed. "You are full of surprises," he admitted. "I hope you're going to agree to help me on this case," Rip asked. "I wouldn't dream of turning it down," she said with enthusiasm. "This is going to be a learning experience and fun as well."

She looked at her watch and was surprised to see it was almost six o-clock. "Rip, you may as well drop me off at the church because' choir practice is scheduled for 6:30 and I couldn't make it back in time for practice if I go home first." "Okay, Honey. Can you get a ride home then?" She assured him she could. As they arrived at the church, there were a few ladies talking on the steps. "I see I'm not the only early one," Honey exclaimed. She got out of the car and started up the walk towards the group of mostly young women. A striking red head detached herself from the group and walked to meet Honey. "I see you've discovered Little Boy Blue!" the red head exclaimed. Honey looked askance at the girl. "Whatever do you mean? she asked with a puzzled expression.

(To be continued)

Rev. Walbear