We tend to attribute such endearing Penna traits as obstinacy, dogmatism and an obsession with routine to Mother's influence, but Father unquestionably cherished a stable, well-ordered existence. Possibly this was his way of putting up with the rest of us. At any rate, he was certainly the most easily caught off guard.

Over on the right, you'll see that we still have the old-style telephone (Larkspur 643). The telephone stand is actually the shelves holding the Encyclopaedia Britannica, 1946 edition.

Click here to see Father in a more tranquil moment.

Click here to zoom in on the magazine rack and see what the Pennas are reading.