Every week, Red and I walk down the long and peaceful hallway of the Mansion Assisted Care Facility, the first door we knock on is Mary’s, she is always sitting near the door, watching TV. She is always excited to see Red, and I step back and out of the room so Mary can have Red to herself for 15 minutes or so.

He looks up at her, and puts his paw in her outstretched hand, something he is learning to by himself, he was not trained to do that, he does no tricks. Maria speaks softly to him, and I am pleased to see the smile cross her face while he is there. She says she could sit there with him all day, and not get tired.

I am bringing her some historical novels, her favorite reading matter.

To touch a dog is such a simple thing, it can mean so much to people, I never tire of seeing the power and impact of it. I am comfortable in the Mansion, the staff is cheerful and present, there are many nice touches there, including two parakeets chirping in their cage in the hallway.

If you wish to send letters or cards to Mary or the other residents of the Mansion, you can write them care of The Mansion, 11 South Union Street, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816.