THE ANCIENT PATH

By Tessa Harvey

CHAPTER SEVEN

(Continued)

Pride was not much of a companion. "Thanks" he answered, "but I am paying my way and will help around the house when I can."

Jim was really pleased. "Got a good sturdy desk stored somewhere", he enthused.

There was a knock and Geoff and Angel clattered in. "We got something for you", called Angel loudly.

"Sounds like the goats are coming! joked Gabe.

Geoff laughed. "No, they are safe in a friend's paddock for the winter. We brought you some cake we made. Sponge cake!"

"Great! Thank you", Jim replied. "Let's get lunch ready."

Later, there was yet another knock, more strident this time. "Sounds like the Gestapo", muttered Jim. 

"More like the Vigilantes," Geoff said much more loudly.

Gabe answered the door but invited no-one in. It was the two councillors of before and another lady. "Yes, how may I help you? asked the young man.

"Er, we heard you haven't been too well..." The man paused. Gabe said nothing.

Nonplussed, the three people slowly moved back down the path.

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