THE ANCIENT PATH

By Tessa Harvey

CHAPTER TWO

(Continued)

Apparently a couple of people from the local council had been asking a few questions about Gabe and why he was in town.

Jim had given them a little information and, apparently satisfied, they had left.

A day or so later, shopping for some groceries and checking out a local hardware store, Gabe was accosted by a high, cheerful voice.

It was Angel, accompanied by her dad. They exchanged a few pleasantries and were interested to know Gabe had reached the steep summit. Then Angel asked him again about the old story of Jesus and his birth.

The young man told them what he knew, then remembered another story about Jesus healing a child of twelve, a little girl. They were engrossed in the story and he assured them if he remembered any more, he would let them know.

"Jim would probably welcome you", the young man smiled, explaining where he was staying.

A few days later, Gabe was making a stool out of two flat circular pieces of wood, separated by three sturdy birch branches, still with their reddish white bark. He had measured them very carefully and was pleased with his work.

At first he ignored the sound of heavy knocking, then, realizing Jim was not around, he put down his tools and opened the door himself.

Two people stood there, looking officious and miserable.

"Well?" asked Gabe, sizing them up and not liking what he saw.

As far as he could see, they might as well carry a sign saying TROUBLE in capital letters. He felt protective of Jim, his host.

"We hear you have been causing some problems", blustered the man. The woman laid a restraining arm on his, then said coldly: "We think it best if you could leave soon."