Out of the Easy

Josie reviews the application materials for Smith, which she has done many times before. She is concerned she does not meet the criteria and that she will not meet the deadline in a few weeks. It is nearly Mardi Gras and she, as well as Mr. Lockwell, will be busy. She puts the materials away, frustrated at the list of expenses, knowing she cannot afford to go. She resolves to “turn the salted peanuts in the cigar box into petits fours” (148) through financial aid and scholarships.

A sophisticated woman enters the shop and examines Josie. She introduces herself as Miss Paulsen from Loyola. She informs Josie that she is applying to Smith later than other girls and asks about Josie’s extracurriculars. Josie replies that all she has is work experience; in addition to the bookshop, she works “as a housemaid in one of the homes here in the Quarter” (150). She lies and says that her mother is also a house cleaner but currently working out of state. Miss Paulsen explains her long friendship with Charlie and her admiration of Patrick. She asks whether Patrick and Josie are dating, but Josie says they are only friends.