THE ANCIENT PATH

By Tessa Harvey

CHAPTER FOUR

Some outings later, having followed old trails and pathways, Gabe decided to caulk up some windows that rattled, and fix up some paint and varnish. He asked permission to do the one in Jim's room. The old man was very pleased and complimented him on his work.

Gabe had been there around two weeks now and the old man and he were becoming friends. Now and then Geoff and Angel called around. Jim wandered out to the shops, asking Gabe if he needed anything.

Soon the young man was busy absorbed in his work. A nail sticking half-way out caught his arm near the top of the window. Gabe thought nothing of it, but when Jim returned, he was concerned and talked about tetanus shots until Gabe agreed to see the doctor next day.

The doctor was young and pleasant. He noted that Gabe often was scratching himself, and asked about it. Gabe had not really noticed. "Probably too tired to notice", he joked with a grin. After a chat, the doctor arranged for the tetanus injection. He also asked Gabe to go for a blood test.

Though Gabe could see no point, the doctor was so pleasant and charming, the young man reluctantly agreed and went early the next day before setting off on another hike, following an old pack horse route through the hills.

The day passed pleasantly enough and Gabe returned to a warm meal Jim had prepared.

The men hate hungrily and chatted, then Jim casually mentioned the doctor's surgery had called - and wanted him to call in sometime soon.