When the letter came, Billy still had not reported to the Leaf training camp. We talked about it, and decided to make an appointment to see what they had to offer.
So we made an appointment the very next day with the president of the recording company. Billy came along to give me moral support. The appointment was for 1 pm and Billy decided to, as he put it, "take his beautiful wife" out for lunch.
The recording company's offices were along Yonge Street near St Clair. There was a restaurant just up the street from there called Fran's which had been there since the 1940s. Fran's was designed after an old-fashioned diner with a soda fountain, old fashioned light fixtures, eating booths and chairs and tables.
The soup of the day, chicken noodle came recommended, so we decided to try that along with several ham and cheese on rye sandwiches.
After lunch, we walked to the company which was only a block away. The president, Mr. Arnold, was expecting us. We were ushered into his office by his secretary, Marie. He greeted us warmly and we sat down. He told us that he had seen my picture in the paper and like in the letter, was wondering if I ever missed recording and would maybe like to return to the company. Billy looked at me and I said, "You know, I did enjoy recording that album and doing that tour. I had always wanted to sing a gospel album. There are so many hymns I would love to sing. I do enjoy being a wife and mother, but I would love to express my love for the Lord the way I can do it best - singing."
"So is that a yes or a no."
"I would love to do it. However, before I sign a contract, can I take a look at it and take it to our lawyer?"
"Sure." He had a contract on his desk which he gave us.
In the elevator, Billy said, "I am not going to stop you from recording this album, if it comes to pass. That was one of the things that first attracted me to you - your singing voice."
"Hmmmmm, Billy, you are the best. As I said, I do enjoy being a wife and mother, but I would love to record a gospel album and hopefully bring people to the Lord thru it." Billy and I were about a foot away in the elevator and I moved closer to give an affectionate squeeze. He reciprocated by taking me in his arms and kissing me passionately.
When we came up for air, he said, "Anything to oblidge a lovely lady. Besides, you can always show your appreciation later."
I giggled and said, "Well, I wonder if we should go and pay a visit to Joe McMillan and have him look at the contract. "
"Great idea. There is a phone booth over there." We were outside of the building by then and we headed over in that direction. Billy got a coin out of his pocket and went over to use the phone. Joe was not with a client and told us to come right over to see him.
The contract turned to be a standard contract and so I signed it.
