The Gallant South- Part Two

Chapter IV-February 9-16, 1913

        Cora had said that her New Year's revolution would be to obtain a driver's license. And to distract herself from David Stockton's murder, she vowed to follow through on that resolution.
        On February 9th, a little less than a month after her deadly standoff with David Stockton, a little less than a month after she'd shot and killed him, Cora got dressed for the day in a thick long dress, braided her hair down her shoulder, and walked down to breakfast with a smile. The buildup of snow from the blizzard had melted, leaving them with about two inches left covering the earth. The air was a bit warmer, up in the low 30s now, and it hadn't snowed in a week. Spring was right around the corner, and everyone was excited.
        "Good morning, Cora," Eveline greeted. "How did you sleep?"
        "Better knowing the snow's melting," Cora replied, sitting down. "You?"
        "No better than I always do. Are you sure you don't want to wait until spring to get your license? It's a bit dangerous to drive on icy roads," Eveline explained.
        "No, no, I've got to learn. The sooner I can drive on my own, the better. We need another car, anyway. This is an excuse to get one," Cora replied confidently. "Besides, you promised you and Masterson would teach me."
        "That was before there was a massive blizzard," Masterson replied, sipping a mug of coffee. "Can't you at least wait a week?"
        "Not at all!" Cora exclaimed.
        "You're too eager," Eveline replied. Everyone, including Eveline, laughed at her hypocrisy.

        Nevertheless, Eveline relented and took Cora out that day, driving along the roads outside of the city while Cora got the hang of it. It was simple, really. Wind up the crank on the engine to start the car. Press the gas pedal to go. Press the clutch and brake to stop. Turn the large steering wheel to turn. Use lower gears when going uphill, higher gears when going downhill. Check the rearview mirror often. Watch how close you are to other cars or wagons. Wear a motoring coat to keep your clothes clean. Hats keep the sun out of your eyes. Turn on the headlights when it gets dark. Make sure you always have enough fuel. Easy enough.

        Once Cora got the hang of it, the next day, Masterson took her to drive through the city, teaching her how to follow other cars and wagons, how and when to turn, and a good speed to drive.
        "This is much easier than I thought," Cora commented as she turned onto Magnolia Street.
        "I know. And it'll only get easier," Masterson replied.
        "Isn't this illegal? My driving without a license?" Cora asked. Masterson shrugged. "No. You're just more likely to be safer with a license."
        "Is it hard to get one?" Cora asked. Masterson shook his head. "You simply go in and apply, they may ask you some questions. Nothing you wouldn't know."

        On February 11th, Cora decided she was ready. As an extra test, she decided to drive herself down to the testing office. To make sure she was really good to go.
        Cora parked the car along the sidewalk, behind another car. She stepped out, took off her motoring coat and hat, and left them in the front seat. She took her birth certificate and medical records, and walked into the building.
        There was a young man at the front desk, and other than that, the lobby was deserted. He smiled at Cora when she walked in.
        "Hello Miss, how might I help 'ya today?" he asked.
        "I'd like to obtain a driver's license," Cora replied. "I've my birth certificate and medical records here."
        The man took her birth certificate and glanced over it. Then he pointed down a wide corridor. "Second door on the left, the man in there can help you."
        "Thank you," Cora replied, and walked down the corridor to the second door on the left. She knocked on it.
        "Come in!"
        Cora opened the door and was greeted by a kindly looking older man with a monocle. He put down his book and smiled at her.
        "What can I help you with, ma'am?" he drawled in a thick southern accent.
        "I'd like to obtain a driver's license please," Cora replied. The man motioned for herself to take a seat.
        "Alright. Have you ever driven before? He asked. Cora nodded. He handed her a piece of paper with typed questions to answer. Cora took a pen from the desk and began filling it out.
        What is your name? Cora Yvette Heiler-Dairson
        What is your age? Twenty-one
        When is your birthday? March nineteenth, 1891
        What is your birth address? 1731 Peachtree Grove Lane, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
        Do you reside within the city of Estelle? Yes.
        What is your address? 2243 Cherry Coral Road
        Do you own a telephone? Yes.
        If so, what is your telephone number? H-236
        Then, onto some more auto-related questions that Cora had to think about for a moment.
        Have you ever driven an automobile before? Yes.
        Do you live with someone who is a licensed driver? Yes.
        What is their name? Isaac James Masterson
        How old are they? Twenty-three
        When is their birthday? June 13, 1889
        Have you been taught to drive by someone with a knowledge of automobiles? Yes.
        Do you have a basic knowledge of automotive laws and mechanics? Yes.