Overhead gulls were still to be seen and heard even though the road was starting to climb upwards and was heading into a wood. George had been walking now for a few hours, and although the day was a cool one, the sky being mostly overcast, he was feeling very warm. He decided to sit down, to relax for a while and to eat a bit of the food he had been given. He rued the fact he did not have a drink. He nibbled at some bread and cheese, and listened to the sound of the sea that would on occasion be heard when the wind carried it far enough. It was not a particularly nice day, but perhaps it was a good one for walking.
George took this moment of rest to also reflect over his travelling so far. He had enjoyed meeting John in the little town along the train line, was happy with his brief time in Gorlis, and marvelled at the unusual circumstance of his current expedition. When he looked at the facts in an objective way, it was very odd that Mrs Proudhon had called him in, that he was now on a mission at her behest. Perhaps it would be for the best if he looked into the little parcel that he had been given for delivery.
He took it out of his bag and placed it on his lap, and also took out the piece of paper, that on one side had a short note, and on the other had directions to the house he was to visit. He looked over the directions, and then chose to read the note which so far he had avoided doing out of politeness.
Dear Colleen, his man is George and he was very kind to help me and Thomas. Inside the parcel is something that I am sure you will know what to do with. M
It was very cryptic thought George, no real information there at all. It simply made him more curious. The story of the ship that had crashed was strange, and the fact that the husband had remained upstairs in the house was unusual too. George examined the parcel.
It was small, quite light, was wrapped in newspaper and was tied with string. However the knot seemed very formidable and proved to be so when he tried opening it. He also wondered if the knot would be something noticeable to Colleen. Maybe could cut the string and later tie it again? But he decided not to, he respected the privacy of others too much to do that. So, reluctantly he put the things back in his bag and started walking again, hoping this time to encounter a helpful passer-by on a wagon or in a car.
