Mr. Monty remembered the one other time he was Shomrim when his sister died just after he got out of the Army. It was important to honour the body and not leave the deceased alone.
Though Ma was not Jewish, he felt she might need help making the crossing; the way to the other side was uncertain and though they would not see her, she would know they were present and, if Ma was troubled on the way, she could seek understanding from the Watchers.
That night was the longest of Nathan"s life. But Mr. Monty"s presence and his love made it bearable. “We Jews have a saying, Nathan: "Wait for Hashem; be strong, and let your heart take courage; and only wait for Hashem".”
“Hashem; what"s that?”
“A name for God; we don"t mention His name directly, but there are alternatives.”
“OK.”
Mr. Monty su
