It was one of the first cars I "drove". One night, my father and his friend went into a bowling alley to "bowl an extra frame", and left me to wait in the car.

Boredom led to mischief as I decided to pretend I was driving the Comet. Luckily, I never moved the gearshift lever, but I remember sawing at the wheel and making the requisite "rrr, screech!" sound effects.

It was then that I discovered a car horn works whether or not the car is actually on.

"HONK, HONK! Outta my way!" I was having a ball.

Kinda cut into Dad's social time a bit as he ran out to the car red-faced.

Yes, I think I got in trouble, though Dad probably felt just as guilty for leaving me outside while he had a couple of adult beverages.

Wow. Strange how looking at a car can dredge up some old memories. Thanks, Murilee.

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I wonder how Lincoln execs of the time felt about having their luxury name on the hood of Mercury's econo-leader.

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