"I'm sensitive, intelligent, reliable as a rock, honest, loyal and hard-working," said Ms Rankin when asked to describe her character.

Andrea Rankin, 37, is qualified as a teacher and a librarian. Other interests include writing, reading, drawing, and Louis her three-year old son.

After getting a B.A. at University Ms Rankin taught at Nuriootpa Primary School in 1977, then English and History at several Adelaide high schools for three years. Next she went to Europe for two years where her ability at French was useful, and after her return did Librarian studies in 1983. She now works part time as a librarian.

Explained Andrea, "From 18 to 28 I did socializing but since 1983 I've been career minded."

As part of the interview, conducted over beer and tonic at the Port Dock Hotel, Andrea filled out an Investigator survey form on which a list of beliefs had to be marked "yes", "maybe" or "no". Observing yeses to Astrology, Auras, Palmistry and Good Luck Charms I remarked, "You seem superstitious."

Replied Andrea: "Your viewpoint makes you say that. I like to speculate and imagine. I'm always seeking and never finding."

"What do you seek and don't find?"

Answered Andrea, "Self fulfillment, contentment, escape from boredom, meaning, satisfaction. I have a weakness for words of wisdom and even read graffiti on toilet doors."

The drawing talent runs in the family and Andrea's brother is "a maths teacher and artist." The drawing of Pussywillow Press in Investigator No. 20 was by Andrea as well as the drawing on this page of herself.

While working at Rostrevor College, 1986-88, Andrea did graphic design for the school magazines.

Andrea Rankin attends several writers groups. She's an avid reader of self-help books and fiction.

(BS)