Dinner, catered by El Charro, was set out on the upper level in buffet style. Well known for it's dining pleasures, El Charro was one of Tucson’s oldest Mexican restaurants, established during the early days of Arizona’s statehood. A specialty of the house, their carne seca, was marinated and then dried and cured in the sun for four to five days on large hanging racks. Other fare that evening included boatloads of grilled shrimp, fillets of broiled salmon, charro beans, a bountiful salad, thickened cheese crisps, and an array of salsas. Each guest’s palate was amply satiated. Any who were slim-minded gave way to the tempting selections as they proceeded down the line. Julie’s parents had planned beautifully and lavishly for their only daughter.

The only disappointment to the perfect evening was the number of tables and chairs left empty owing to a wave of last-minute cancellations by friends of the Landows. All those in attendance acted as if they hadn’t noticed, but Julie’s father was tense; he hardly smiled the entire evening. David was embarrassed, knowing the reason.
At the end of the evening, after the guests had departed, David quietly pulled Julie aside. His boyish good looks and big smile had been replaced by a furrowed brow and tightened lips. “Honey, I am so sorry,” he said gently. “Obviously I’m responsible for the no-shows. How ’bout let’s talk to your dad about it?”

Julie stiffened. Softening hurriedly, she whispered, “Oh, David, no, that would make matters worse. I know him. He has to nurse his wounds first, and then he’ll settle down. I’ll talk to him tomorrow.” Looking longingly into his soft-brown eyes, blended with olive tones, which she always adored, she murmured, “I knew there would be setbacks like this. I’ve grown used to the snobbery and the pettiness. My folks still have some adjusting to do.” With a flourish, she flung her arms around him. “David, you are the man I love; you have my heart.”

“OK,” he muttered, tears welling. “The party was so lovely. Your parents planned everything so well. This is a terrible disappointment.” He tilted his head toward hers, their foreheads became one. “I just want you to know that I got the message. The gentile community is not ready to accept a Jew.”