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470 

Rome April 15.

the Egyptian & Etruscan Museums. The collection is superb.

Later in the afternoon, we went again to Doney's Cafe, Via Vittorio Veneto. Crowded & full of life. I already felt at home, recognizing several faces I had seen during the past three days. And, surprise, who should pass by but a neighbor, from home, Leonard Schruerer, the typical, rich American. I was glad, however, to see him. A souvenir of home. He, too, (must have been feeling lonely) was pathetically glad. We all had quite a talk, mentioning imports (he deals in all commodities) gave him Louis' address in Rangoon and told him to meet David Hacohen & Linton in Tokyo. He was so appreciative & expressive, he invited both Jan & myself to dinner, so, at 9 PM - to the Jickey Club - trés chic, trés expensive & trés joli. Cabaret? Internat'l. glorified burlesque type, rather. Sexy looking dancers, etc. The only typical entertainment - the music & singers - all excellent three different sets of musicians.



471    

Rome April 15-

Only in Rome, I suppose, can one find, on exiting a nightclub - an old Romanesque stone figure, an equally old stone [[image]] & several smaller Roman antiquities including an immense stone vase (several feet high)

Left at midnight, with Leonard (saying he would call from the airport?) 

Now - Jan. Curious. We have been spending time together like two men - whole days & evenings, sometimes making conversation - at other times, walking miles silently.  Always, correctly shaking hands to say goodnight, etc. Today, at the café, however, "I wish I could speak to you in Dutch. We Dutch do not talk much, but I wish I could tell you how I feel." Tonight, "Anna. I hope I will see you again. I did not believe these things anymore. These few days have been my happiest in years." And nearly burst into tears. I write this down, because the memory of it will be precious to me - simply the wonder of human relationships & the remarkable things that have been happening to me which I don't understand.