WAX DUMMIES

He entered the hall. There was little light. He scrutinized

the naked, beautifully painted wax dummies-he liked them:

a certain emotion, almost erotic. Bodies exquisite, as if all were

made

from the same model, in various ages. As he raised his eyes,

he recognized his face in their faces. At that moment

he heard steps in the corridor. He undressed quickly, then stood still.

They entered, ran through the hall and finally stood in front of him.

"This one

looks the least natural," said woman,and pointed at him.

He heard his eyelashes lowering. They closed.