Not Talking
Jerry Earnest is home grown, much younger
than I, but old enough to appreciate the stories of old
Fayetteville. He sent me an email telling me a funny story
about Russell Edmondson. Russell and I went to school
together. I’ve talked with Russell and he has given me
permission to tell this story.
When Russell was a small boy he came to town with his daddy
in a mule and wagon to get supplies. They pulled up on the
square and his daddy stopped the wagon and tied the mule to
a hitching post. He left Russell in the wagon while he went
to buy supplies.
Russell’s daddy, not wanting him talking to strangers, told
Russell, “ If anyone speaks to you, don’t say anything. If
you do they will find out how stupid you are!!”
Mr. R.E.L. Fife lived just around the corner in what today
we call the “Holliday House.” He was an elderly,
sophisticated man. He often strolled around town in his
three piece suit and greeted everyone.
As he passed the wagon he spoke to Russell, “ Mighty fine
day ain’t it, son?” Since Russell’s daddy had told him not
to say anything he didn’t say a word.
Mr. Fife again said, “I said, son, a mighty fine day.”
Russell again said nothing.
Mr. Fife feeling Russell was being disrespectful said “Boy,
you are a stupid little brat!” Russell still said nothing.
Russell’s daddy appeared across the street and Russell ran
to him, “Daddy, I didn’t say a word, but they found out
anyway!!”