red, and, bronze? Why not gold or silver?"
35 "From what my mother told me," explained Morn, "some of their rich
did wear silver and gold, and some of their High Speakers were given
gold Symbols for long service to The Faith. But to wear gold and silver
unless it was a reward for some service, was considered to be a show of
wealth and arrogance. They believed that people should not adorn
themselves, that it was their character that was important, not their
physical appearance. That is why many of them wore very plain clothes,
and never wore any jewelry unless it was an award or honor. "
36 "Strange people, weren't they?" sighed North, "strange traditions."
37 "I don't know," remarked Morn, "I noticed YOU never wear jewelry,
nor, your wives."
38 North's eyes widened at that statement. "Nor, do YOU!" he remarked.
39 "So perhaps," Morn continued, "there are those that still believe in
such Traditions.”
40 Just then North's son burst into the room. "Daddy! Daddy!" The
little boy cried, "You promised me we could go to the park! You
promised! Can Morn come, too?"
41 "Of course," agreed North, "if he wants to!"
42 "You know," smiled Morn, "it's been a long time since I played a
game of catch. Remember, North?"
43 "That was a LONG time ago!" his friend answered, "But I'll always be
glad for that day."
44 "So will I'! " Morn continued. "Tell me, this young one starts in
The Games next year. How do you think he'll do?"
45 "He'll make at least the States," boasted North. "He may surprise me
and go to the Nationals. But I'm not pushing him. As long as he makes
an acceptable showing, that's all I care! There'll be plenty of
opportunities for him, even if he doesn't make Academy. I won't make him live under
the pressures we lived under, and I made