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[Henk]

The clock said 8.30.
Exact at that time, Katherine was downstairs for breakfast.
Alone.
"Am I going to eat alone ?", she asked her self.
She waited for a while.

First, Helene came down after Katherine's first cup of tea.
A few minutes later David came down, looking surprised at Katherine's plate, where  crumbles showed Katherine's advance with eating.
"Oh, excuse me, you started already ?"
"Yes", replied Katherine, buttering a small piece of gingerbread.
David said nothing, he remembered he said 8.30.
 
"How did you like this part of Europe till now ?" , he asked the girls.
"Great !", answered Helene.
"Indeed !", agreed katherine.
There was silence for a few  minutes.
"They are friendly and easy-going", said Katherine.
David heard a "but" before it was spoken.
"I dare say, their manners are a bit stiff compared with the French. I even felt a bit of a resemblance with Avonlea, seeing the girls going to school in Edam.  Amsterdam is a small big city, but Paris is more a big big city

"

"I know what you mean", said Helene.
"Our country has a great culture and history, and we had many great names, willing to carry that further into Europe. All lines lead to and from Paris.
"Yes, that is true ", said David.
"Holland, and specially this area was never ruled by a dictator or a great monarch. It is more down to business.
It is the salesman and the church that rule this country.  And, ofcourse we are blessed with a better climate".

 "What do you mean ?"", asked Katherine laughing, remembering the heavy rain in Paris a few weeks ago.
"I know what you mean, but wait till you are back in France somewhere  in May, and see and smell our fantastic Nature . France is the country of Spring " .
"Yeah...", sighed Katherine. She remembered the beauty of the French countryside very well, when she first arrived in France in Fall.

"The beaches at the Dutch North Sea coast are beautifull, but they seem to be bit colder compared with your Bretagne, David", said Katherine.





"One thing I still find very strange, and I don't see myself doing that ever", said Katherine.
"What is that ?", asked Helene and David together.

"The way they eat raw herring ", said Katherine with a disapproving look on her face.



"That is how they look at us, eating our "fruit de mer", said David.
"I have been sailing on Dutch boats, and got used to it. And now I think herring is as delicious".


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note.
Amsterdam was never the seat of any monarch or ruler, and has earned its reputation in this small country of "going it's own way", even during times of war.

New Herring: a typical Dutch way of preserving fresh herring.  Taking "new herring" and sauerkraut made long sea-journeys possible without getting "scurvy" , because of lacking vitamin C.
This was already done in the 15th century.
The end of May, there is a race between fishers, to bring the first herring back from the new catch.
The first barrel will make about $50000 on the auction, this will be donated to charity by tradition.
Arriving in the shops is a feast, with flags and a small drink to celebrate the arrival of  the "New Herring".
Except for Asian visitors, many visitors from abroad don't like this way of eating "raw fish".
I love it !
The North Sea is protected area now, most herring is caught  in the open North Atlantic Ocean.
Dutch  companies moved to Denmark and Norway, to process the fish in Dutch way.
For Norway and Denmark, this is a rather new . But there is nothing wrong with the way herring is traditional served and eaten in these countries !

Go Ikea !

[muppets123]

David was a bit surprised that the girls had started breakfast without him.
"  If you'll excuse me a moment ladies. I must talk to our host about something."
He returned a few moments  later... they finished their meal.
" It is a glorious morning for our last full day day together girls... for tomorrow we must part, albeit temporarily.  Would you care to join me in the garden and  we can decide what we should like to do  today?"  The  girls looked puzzled but followed obediently into the garden. It was sunny but cool.  David selected a nice sunny spot  by the fountain to set up a table with some  fresh tea and stroopwaffles.
The girls sat down and noticed some brightly  wrapped packages at their places, each with small card and their names attached.
"David it's just like Christmas morning! You shouldn't have " Helene exclaimed,  supressing a girlish giggle.  Katherine was guarded, but appreciative.   " Thank you, you are such a dear."
" No long faces or I will have to report you both to Sinterklaas " David warned.   "Now open your gifts and be happy.  For today is a good day".



The  girls took turns opening their gifts.  First Helene opened a Dutch Delft brooch
and Katherine unwrapped a Victorian angel faery pendant.




"They are so beautful! How can we ever thank you? "  Both  girls squealed in delight as they hugged each other and kissed David on both cheeks.
" Nothing is too good for m' ladies and special friends.   I truly value your companionship and  kind affections." David answered as he bowed to them gallantly.
They opened the other  parcels.  Helene received a book on art history and sculpture and  Katherine recieved a pendant that resemebled a cross between the goddess Iris and a faery.  She remembered the story about the Greek Goddess, Iris being a messenger between heaven and earth that David had told her about earlier in their travels. That seemed so long ago. So much has happened during  her journeys. Her mind started to wander as she thought back to everything that occurred since she left Canada.   Presently, David's voice brought her out of her reverie.


"Now then,  I suggest we take  some time to start packing.  That way there will be less to do tonight.   We will have the rest of the afternoon and evening  together and tommorrow at noon I shall escort you both to the train.  Then later in the day I shall depart for London and Ireland. I will tell you more of my plans at dinner tonight.   Suffice it to say, I will  have a  short meeting  with the  London  art museum director regarding  my paintings and then will head off to Ireland for a botanical field study in the Burren and the Dingle Penninsula.  I also hope to make some brief stops in  Dublin, Galway and at Dungaire Castle."
 "That sounds like a wonderful trip David. Can't we go with you? " Helene asked.
  David thought about the proposition carefully.   He addressed Helene directly, afraid to meet Katherine's  gaze.
"Much that I would  love your company, ladies, I can't.  This is  business both of a  professional and personal matter.  Now let's start packing so that we may have a wonderful afternoon and evening together.  I will meet you in the lobby in two and a half  hours."

[Henk]

The packing went smooth.
For David.
As a seafarer, he was used to carry as little luggage as possible, and organize well.
There would never be much space for personal belongings on board of the ships he sailed on.
He heard the girls giggling and laughing.
"We will be ready in an hour, David !", Helene said through the door, when he knocked on their door.
"That is OK, call me when you are ready !".
He went back to his room, and lay down on his bed.

"I think I m ready", said Katherine.
"Are you sure ?", asked Helene.
"If I am not, it will take two more hours again, to pack it all over. I can not do that to David" .
"
David went down to them to have a cup of tea first, before going outside.
Katherine noticed he was very restless.
She was wearing David's gift, it was very becoming on her.
When they were seated, David did not seem to be able take his eyes away from it.
He did not say much, and was getting even more restless.
It made her blush.
"David, what is the matter with you ?", she asked.



"I lay down on my bed, not meaning to fall asleep. But I did" .
"Well, you  needed it, I suppose ", said Helene, teasing.
"We are wearing you out !" .
"No not at all, these days with you have been very precious and special, I wish they could last ".
He looked outside.
"Brigitte was with me again, much stronger as ever " .
Both girls said nothing, there was more to come.

" The Lady of the Lake", was all she said, pointing at the waters, where we were standing.
And out came a women's hand, with a sword ".

"Vivian !", said Helene, remembering how King Arthur received Excalibur.
"Yes, it must be her ", said David.



"I understand that". said David, " but that is not all" .
He took a deep breath, before going further.
"I had that dream before, remember ?  I kind of feel where it goes, Brigitte has never been wrong.
But after that, she stepped in a small boat herself, and waved to me, while she sailed away. She would be back she said. "



"That is good for you ", said Katherine.
"Maybe, but I feel the day of parting is coming near, and not only from you two . I don't know what to make of it ".
"Is my necklace involved in it ?", asked Katherine. because David was still looking at it, although he tried not to.
"Yes. Brigitte was wearing that necklace...".

[muppets123]

The last afternoon of sight seeing was fun.  David was determined to show the girls a good time and give them pleasant memories. He did not speak of Brigitte again all afternoon.

 David kept the conversation light and upbeat during dinner.  He informed the girls that he made arrangements for them to stay at a quaint little bed and breakfast,  run by a seamstress in Munich.  Also, that a retired university professor or would act as their guide.

"Chaperone you mean," laughed Helene sarcastically though she was not really upset.
  " Now Helene, I did not  put you up in a convent, although I might have been tempted"  he teased.  He toasted the girls' new adventures and told them about mead, a wine made with honey and sometimes mixed with other fruits, grains or spices that was popular in the days of King Arthur and in Celtic lore.  "I will bring some back from Ireland for you to try.  Gabrielle has become interested in adding a mead to her winemaking so I promised her some information,  and of course she wants samples.    Actually there are many different varieties of mead throughout Europe and even from such exotic places as Ethiopia."
 
David told them about the parts of Ireland he was planning to see.   He was meeting up  with  a few colleagues in Dublin and then setting out with them on a  botanical and geological  expedition that  would encompass The Burren, Dingle Peninsula  and possibly the Aran Islands.  He explained that The Burren holds a wealth of historical and geological sites that go back to the iron and  bronze age.  It's also home to the most unique botanical life in Ireland.

 He spoke of Dungaire Castle and  of  Galway Bay, of which he hoped to do some painting or at least sketches.  Helene and Katherine exchanged smiles and sighed.
 
 Later that evening Katherine was very restless and could not sleep.  She put  a sweater over her dressing gown, wrapped a blanket around her shoulders  and went to sit in the garden to think.  She found  David there painting by lantern light.  He was painting a picture of a mermaid.
"Don't suppose I'll meet one of these fascinating creatures, do you?  he said jokingly, trying to  focus on his painting instead of Katherine.

 
"I hope not. I hear all they do is cause trouble and lure sailors to their deaths among the rocks."   Katherine was surprised to hear how bitter she sounded at the thought of  David leaving.  But she was also afraid something was going to happen to him.
"David, why must you go?" Katherine queried with a sad look in her eyes.  I've got this awful feeling  that something..."
 
"Little one, cheer up... you remind me of Brigitte when I had to go away.  Do not worry, I will be back in time to join  you in Slovenia and Venice,  I still owe you that tour of the castles of the  Loire on bicycles.   I will not forget my promise to you.  I want to see you ride with your hair flying freely in the wind.  I told you why I am going at dinner.  I will also be getting paid for my research which I can use to help fund our travels.   Additionally, there are  paintings of Galway Bay that need to be done.  Tell you what, chérie I will make  a special sketch just for you.   You and Helene have special things awaiting you  as well.   When I come back I will bring some mead and we can  all toast to our success and  adventures like they did in Camelot."

David was trying to dismiss her fears without telling her everything.   He did not look at her for fear he would  betray his thoughts and feelings.   But Katherine knew him too well by now and would not be sidetracked.

"David, does this have something to do with Brigitte"? she asked softly.
 He relented.  "Yes my friend, but please do not worry. Brigitte and I have a task to  accomplish and she will protect me.  She will not fail me as I failed her."
"David, you didn't fail to protect her.  There was no way  you have have possibly known  what would happen.  She was very independent and headstrong. Both you and your aunt said so.
 David stiffened.  He was trying very hard not to be emotional but anger and fear crept into his voice. " Don't you see, if  I hadn't insisted on fetching the doctor....  just because I could run faster. I was older and more stubborn.  I should have known better.... I should have let her take the horse and I should  have  been on the rocks signaling the ships... I should have never put her  in such a dangerous situation.  How she can forgive me for being so stupid?   I don't know...  but I must have her forgiveness.  There will be no peace for either of us until that is done."  He threw is brush down and was visibly shaken.
 
"David,  there is nothing for her to forgive, it was an accident.  She knows that and she still loves you.   The one who needs to forgive you, is you."   Katherine put her arms around him and rested her head on his shoulder.

"Darling,  please let us not talk about this anymore tonight.   I must do what I have to do and that is all.   Now I have one more gift for you before we part."  He walked over to the tree and pulled  out a   small canvas wrapped in brown paper and a rolled parchment  scroll attached to the  string.

 Midsummer Eve by  Edward Robert Hughes 1908

 " This is for you,  my friend.  Please just know that you are very precious to me. That moonlit night on Gabrielle's porch inspired it .  If you had been able to take the leap of faith then, oh I could just imagine what conversations and secrets you and the faeries could have  shared.  And the  poem is from  Lord Bryon.  I have always loved this poem.  It is has always  meant something special to me  and I  believe it will help lead me to the one I seek.   I want to share this with you too, my  angel, as you have been a huge part of this journey.  You and Brigitte are guiding me to her.   Brigitte knows that by us helping each other get through our past it will enable us to move on to a brighter future.   Perhaps now we are both ready to take the leap of faith."

Katherine said nothing.  She knew that he just needed  her to be there for him they way he had been a true friend for her.  She also knew their parting was imminent.  He picked up on her thoughts.
 "True kindred spirits are never far away chérie. I will always be there for you and we can carry each other in our hearts. Not the same as lovers or a spouse but as a very special  bosom friend."

Katherine smiled as she thought of Anne's favorite expression.   Who would have thought that she would be so lucky and blessed now to have two such bosoms friends? She yawned sleepily but much more at ease. 
 "David I think we should both try to get some sleep now. We all have a long day ahead tomorrow."  She picked up her gift and held it close as David gathered up his painting supplies and put them away.  They silenty walked back inside the hotel and drifted off to sleep, wondering what the future would bring. 

[muppets123]

Morgan boarded the train in Calgary a day  early.  He did not find the  gift he was looking for for Katherine there so he thought he would give himself an extra day in Montreal to locate it there.  He read the  newpapers and  looked out the window.   Taking a trip to London on the  airship would be exciting.... but this was more about expedience  than adventure.  When he was in the barbershop he did talk to some gentlemen about  rapid advances in aviation and was momentarily caught up in the  thrill and excitement.



Meanwhile in Paris, Dahlia was also preparing for her trip to London.  She practiced her  program  everyday and  carefully picked out her concert wardrobe.  Her  first performance at the theatre  would be on the evening of April 9th but then she had two  days off before the next one.   If things went well she thought she might even invite Morgan to attend one of her concerts.     Did she have time to go shopping for a new dress?

[muppets123]

Morgan found what he was looking for in Montreal. Beautiful--- but not bold or ostentatious.  Just like his Katherine.  With renewed confidence he made his way to the field to board the airship that would take him to London.... and to her.  How long had it been since she left?  He couldn't exactly remember.  He liked her tart tongue and her intelligence.  But he was not sure he could handle her newfound confidence and sense of adventure. Wasn't she beyond that now?  She was behaving more like Emmeline and the Anne he left behind, he observed. Or rather, who had  left him behind.


Could he get with the times and accept Katherine as an equal partner?  He thought back to the day when he daughter was getting into trouble at Kingsport.  He adored Emmeline but could not show it.    Now Emmeline would  soon be on her way to intern at a theatre in  Ireland and from there,  who knows?  When would he see her again?  Was he making the same mistake with Katherine?


If his daughter came to forgive him, couldn't Katherine?  He rationalized that if she really loved him she would adapt to his way of life.   She was not like his first wife.... well maybe in some ways.  Could she learn to adapt to his way of life?  Could he learn to accept her and her dreams?   He thought about all this as he  boarded the airship.

 

[Charlaya]

Oh, I just cought up with Katherine's Travels and you have done such a wonderful job! Thank you! It is so fun and interesting to read! A great project!

[muppets123]

Katherine woke up early that morning. She was all packed but she wanted to write a quick note to Anne and post it from the train station before they left.   She had a cup of coffee and a stroopwaffle as she wrote.
 
Dear Anne,
 Life is sending us in a new direction.  Helene and I will be traveling on our own to  Bavaria and Vienna.  David has some mysterious business to attend to in Ireland, so he has arranged for some friends of his to act as guides/ chaperones.   I am sure we will be quite fine,  but in some way I wish we were going with him.  I am worried that something bad may happen to him.   He has promised to meet back up with us for Slovenia, Venice, the Loire  Valley and back to Paris.   I think the Boncouers are meeting us in the Loire.  Holland was wonderful and I am sending along a few trinkets for the children. 
 
 Morgan was called to Calgary on business.  Last time I heard from him he said he had been delayed but was also looking at some property out west as an investment, whatever that means.  Oh, if you do hear from Emmeline again, please tell her to look me up at La Sorbonne if she comes to Paris.  I would love to see her.
 
Sorry I have to run  but we have a train to catch.  I will write to you when we are settled in  Munich and let you know where we will be staying the next few weeks.  Please take care and give my love to everyone.
 
Yours,
Katherine.
 
She wanted to write more about David and Morgan but she was in a hurry.  She  finished her coffee;  stuck the note in a small box that contained the presents; secured the box with heavy twine.  Just then the bellman arrived to take her and Helene's  luggage downstairs.   She followed behind and met her companions in the lobby.
After saying their goodbyes and thank yous to the manager, David escorted the girls to the train platform.  Katherine stopped at the small post office across from the station and posted her parcel to Anne
 

 
He hugged them both. Katherine was wearing the Iris fairy pendant. 
"Goodbye  my sweet angel and do not worry.   I will see you soon and Brigitte will take good care of me."  Katherine's eyes met his soulful gaze.  He kissed her on both cheeks.  She turned quickly and boarded the train, biting her lip to keep from crying.  David turned to  Helene.  "Take good care of her and have fun.... but not too much ", he said playfully.  They also kissed on both cheeks and she waived to him from the top step, then ducked inside the train.   After they found their seats,  both girls waived one more time enthusiastically through the window as their train pulled out. David watched the train disappear in the distance,  then left to start his own journey.
 
As the trained chugged along towards Bavaria, the  promise of new adventures and the glorious countryside spread out ahead on the tracks before them.

 
One time as they departed a small village, Helene pointed to two handsome young men on motorcycles.
"I wouldn't mind trying to ride one of those".
Katherine momentarily blushed but then laughed joyously.
" Well let me see if I can handle the Loire on bicycle first and then maybe I'll try the motorcycle".

[Henk]

Morgan was not satisfied with his cabin.
"What is wrong with it, Sir ?", asked the steward.
"Too many flowers in that wallpaper, haven't you got another one ? I noticed there was another cabin not taken."
"Ofcourse, Sir, I will arrange that immediately  for you ".
The steward took Morgan's luggage to his desired cabin.
"Will I make your bed ready for the night, Sir? ", he asked.
"Yes, that would be fine", replied Morgan.
"Oh, and could  you hang that picture above my bed, please ? "

The steward did not answer, he had already done that.
He knew his guests...
 


He walkd to the diner-room, to see if he could have cup of tea.
There was nobody there at the moment, he could wait.



He heard a female voice coming from the cabin at the end of the gangway.
" I am truely clueless and constantly astonished !"

The door was open.
Morgan, gentleman as ever, looked inside.
There was nobody there, except a young lady.
She was reading a German newspaper, "Die Woche" .
"Oh, sorry, I did not mean to disturb you at all !", she said.
"But I read so funny news about the town where some of my family lives."
"Where might that be ?", asked Morgan.
"In Munich" , she answered.


"It is an old paper, but it is such a funny story, I am reading. It is  about a " Munchner im Himmel " .
She continued, noticing that  Morgan was willing to hear the story.
"About Alois Hingerl. He was a regular at the Hofbrauhaus , the famous beercellar, all his life. Whenever he was finished with his work at the government, he would go there till bedtime.
When he died, he was allowed to go to Heaven as an Angel. But he was so homesick to the Hofbrauhaus, he kept complaining to everybody, even the Almighty.
The Almighty and alll the other Angels were irritated by it, and at last he was offered  a special job.
He was allowed to go back to Earth, if he would look after the Bavarian government and inspire them with all his tools as Angel.
Ofcourse he wanted that. But as soon as he was back in his old place, he flew direct to the beercellar, to have his drinks again, neglecting his job for the government.
And he still reported being there, till today."
"How nice for him !", laughed Morgan.
"Yes", she continued again, "But not for the Bavarian government, because that is without divine inspiration since then !
They both had to laugh, and exchanged their names.

"Do you want to join me for a little drink, in our heavenly Brauhaus ?", Morgan asked.
She wanted.



After the coctailparty, the tables were set for a light dinner.
The girl was a pleasant talker, and Morgan listened to all her little adventures she had had in Bavaria and America.



Was it the wine, being high in the sky, or the fact that he was getting nearer to Katherine mile after mile, that made him feel happy ?

[Henk]

"I am supposed to go to see the Taj Mahal, but I have the feeling I have only seen trains sofar", were the first words Katherine said, when leaving the train in Munich.
They had taken the  night-train, and as relaxing as the sound of the weels on rails can be, it did not help them to fall asleep.
Once in a while somebody would pass their cabin.
"Munchen, wir sind da ! ", said Helene, having a try on her German.



The hotel was nearby. A simple but good place.
Staying inside would do not good, after this night.
Outside they would stay awake, with help of the nice weather.
"Karolinenplatz" , Helene read from a plate.



"Oh, verzeihung bitte !" .
Katherine was ready to speak our her mind, before she had translated the words that were spoken to her by the man on the ground.
Perhaps he was in a hurry, because he had bumped into Katherine just before that, leaving the latter standing upright, but him in a more disgracing position.
Katherine was used to have  people bumping into her at the old school back on Prince Edward Island.
The ladies-to-be back home had a habit of running around like the proverbal birds.
Helene's German was better, and she adressed the man in a polite but direct manner, that made him leave immediately after getting back on bis feet.



First they wanted to walk all afternoon and go somewhere to have a meal and perhaps a little drink.

"When in Munchen , act as the Muncheners do !", said Katherine, when passing a fashion shop.

It took a while, but knowing there was no David politely waiting outside, counting the birds, they did not feel for hurrying.
"I think this is it !", decided Katherine at last.
The approving look of Helene confirmed her completely.
"Morgan will love you in that dirndle !", said Helene.



"I don't feel for walking anymore, will we go straight to a place were we can sit relaxed, and have something to eat and drink ? ". suggested Katherine.
"That is fine to me !"

They went to a small place, where people were having a nice talk with each other.
The waitress guided them to an empy table.
"Do you have something to drink ? " , asked Helene in fluent German.

[muppets123]

 Dahlia was still trying to decide if she should fly from Paris to London or take a ship.
Flying had its advantages: It was faster and would leave her more time for leisure to shop, relax and plan her moves regarding Morgan.  She could also get in more practice time.  Flying was also exciting and she had never really done it before.


  However, the ship would be more relaxing and give her time to socialize on board with the passengers and let her forget that she was a concert painist and former child prodigy.
 
Her parents, mangager and teacher would prefer her to take the ship and practice on board. But she was making this trip on her own.  Oh, her manager would be there at the theatre; but  she even didn't tell him exactly when she was arriving.  As far as Dahlia was concerned, as long as she was there in time for rehearsals and the concerts, that was all he had to know. 

 
The lure of adventure in the skies and in London  was too strong.  She opted to fly with one small suitcase and shiped her steamer trunk with her dresses and music  a few days ahead separately.  They would be waiting for her in her suite at the Savoy hotel when she arrived.
 

[Henk]

"Three days to go, Mr. Morgan ", said the lady he talked with last night.
"Yes, what a way to relax, and rise above all our daily sorrows", he answered.

A rather hard wind had made the airship go up and down during the night, like a bottle floating in a pond.
All was well now, the relieved passengers came together in the diner, to have a social talk.
Most people were introduced to each other now, the atmosphere became less formal.



Katherine and Helene were ready for exploring Munchen, and visit some of the museums this day.
But the evening before had been great, there was singing and laughter.
People did not mind the accents of the girls, and just talked about everything.
"This place is part of Munich's culture too, Helene !", said Katherine.
"I think I know what you mean", said Helene, laughing.

"Ach, Sie sind wieder da ?" was the welcome  by an older couple they had seen the day before.



Before they knew, the girls were guided to a table, and engaged in some talking with the people around them.

"How do I ever tell about this to Rachel Lynde ?", asked Katherine.
"You don't !", answered Helene, which made them laugh.



David had been walking around a lot in the city of London.
He rested for a while on Leicester Square, watching the birds...



After eating a large steak, he went to a nearby theatre, to watch a light opera by Gilbert and Sullivan.
"The Mikado"

He found himself humming when "Three Little Maids From School We Are" was sung.



"Gilbert and Sullivan, I think I am going to hear these names more, I like this", he thought.

[muppets123]

The girls were enjoying themselves in Munich totally unaware that Morgan was heading to London..... and so was  Dahlia.
 
Dahlia checked into the Savoy hotel. Upon arriving in her suite she unpacked her  steamer trunk, freshened up a bit  and headed over to the Savoy Theater  next door.
 
The savoy Theatre 1881

She inspected the acoustics, the lighting, the  sightlines from the audience, the concert piano, the piano in the rehearsal studio and even the dressing room.  Everything was to her satisfaction.  She knew the  acoustics would be wonderful as this theatre was  hosted the  comic operas of Gilbert and Sullivan.  It was also the first theatre, and the first public building in the world, to be lit entirely by electricity.  Dahlia could feel the charge of electricity in the air, and it was not just from the incandescent lights.




After a brief introduction and conversation with the stage manager, she left.  Dahlia knew her manager was not expecting her for rehearsal until 4 o'clock the next afternoon. Therefore, she set out for a nice lunch and some leisurely shopping.

[muppets123]

 Two men stood on the street corner in a cold London rain.  They both hailed the taxi at the same moment.  The cab pulled up to the curb.
"Since neither of us wish to catch pneumonia, may I suggest sharing the taxi?" David offered as he opened the door for Morgan.
"All right by me",  Morgan answered as he got in.  David followed. He had several small  wrapped canvases and was carrying a large leather bound portfolio.

Mercedes  Benz Taxi cab, 1911
 
"Where to gentl'men?" asked the driver with a slight Cockney accent
 This time Morgan nodded for David to go first.
 " The National Gallery," responded David.
"And you, gov'ner?"
"The Savoy Hotel."
 
Both men said nothing further, lost in their own thoughts. After a while, Morgan broke the silence, noticing the canvases.   
"Artist?", he inquired.
"Among other things."   
"Such as?"
"Botanist,  professor at a Paris university. Fisherman before that."
"Very industrious of you. But then again, I suppose you would have to be.  I mean, being an artist must make it hard to pay the bills."
"Sometimes  perhaps.  But there are other advantages that one doesn't always see.  Right now I have a meeting about my work with the one of the directors of the National Gallery.  After that it is on to Ireland to do some botanical, and archeological research with some colleagues.  I will also have the freedom to do some painting, maybe take in a few plays,  and relax in the fields and along the coast. I can enjoy some of the most wonderous scenery on God's green earth.   And what brings you to London,  sir?"
 
"Ah yes-- the freedom to do what you want.  To be a man and put your mark on this world, "  Morgan observed.   "I am here to meet my fiancée.   Oh, I have a  daughter who will heading off to Ireland, Dublin in fact.  She will be apprenticing at the Abbey Theatre.  Would you like to see a her picture?" 
 Morgan was suddenly acting the part of doting father, though he was not exactly sure why.  Partially because of  he inherent need for men to show off their accomplishments, but underneath, he really was proud of his little girl.  He pulled out  an old worn picture of a young Emmeline in glasses.
" Course this was when she was much  younger.  Which reminds me, I really do need to get an updated one of her for my billfold."
David took the photo and gazed at it thoughtfully. 

 
"She looks like she was quite a handful.  Part fairy princess and part wild filly?" he mused .
"MMM, she still is."  Morgan laughed quietly.
 
Just then the cabbie pulled in front of the  National Gallery. David returned the picture,   got out and paid the driver his portion of the fare.
"Well I hope you have a pleasant stay in London sir" he said as offered Morgan his hand in a gentlemanly handshake.
"Right and best of luck with your work here and in Ireland."

David tipped his cap and headed up the steps into the museum.
Morgan settled back thinking of Emneline and Katherine from years gone by as the driver set off for the Savoy hotel.

 

[Henk]

David got used to the London Underground system, due to the small maps that were supplied for free at the ticketdesks.



How busy London was, David was glad to be in large city again.
All those different people, from different parts of the world.
The ladies near him were not tired enough to stop sharing some stories, after a long day shopping at the  Covent Garden markets.



He was thinking of having a drink in one of the many pubs, but he felt tired after a lot of walking.
The weather had been fine, and when that shower finally came, he decided to go underground.







"I can use some more music today, even the smallest drink will put me asleep now".

Elgar's “Cockaigne” was on the program for this night in the Royal Albert Hall.
David did not know that piece of music, he bought the program.
 “Cockaigne” traditionally the fictitious “Land of All Delights”  or  “The Abode of Luxury and Idleness”
Better known as London...

"Yes", thought David, "this is London".

[Henk]

"What are we going to do today ?" , asked Helene.
"Eating !", answered Katherine, "I am starving for a good breakfast and a good coffee !" .

The thundershowers that passed during the night made everything look green and fresh, when they looked outside after waking up.
The Sun was already warming up the morning, they were in the mood to have a long day in the great outdoors of Munich and surroundings.

"I like this hotel, Helene. We have been lucky with our lodgings sofar, I think !".
Grand hotel " Die Vier Jahreszeiten " was a good hotel indeed.



No other guests were downstairs, they were first.
The lady behind the desk came after them, to excuse.
"Our kitchen will be ready in a few minutes, to serve your breakfast, but would you like to have a fresh orange juice already ?"
"Yes, please", answered Katherine.

Helene , whose German was a bit better, noticed a slight accent in the lady's voice.
When the lady came back, she looked at the name-plate out of curiosity.
"Wilhelmina Spaander"
"Excuse me, but where do you come from ? ", asked Helene.
"I am from Holland, from a little viilage at the lake, called Volendam"

Katherine and Helene looked very surprised.
"Really ?" , asked Katherin.
"Yes, why ?", asked the lady, seeing the surprised faces.
"Well, we stayed there, before we came here !", said Helene.
It was the lady who looked surprised now.
"You are serious, what a coincidence !" .

There was nobody in the restaurant still, the lady could afford to talk with the girls.

"My father, Leendert Spaander, is a good friend of the owner of this hotel, Max Obermayer.
He wants us to learn our languages, and how to deal with traveling people from all directions.
Mister Obermayer is a dedicated painter as well, by the way".
"Isn't it a small world, after all ", said Katherine.

How small she could not imagine, not being aware of the fact that Morgan and David had shared the same cab only a few days earlier.

They exchanged their stories with the lady, who was anxious to hear all from her beloved little village.
"I have made an unforgettable impression on mister Obermayer, when I arrived here ".
"I can see that ", smiled Helene, because Wilhelmina was a pretty woman.
"No, not how you mean", Wilhelmina answered, laughing.

"It was a very hot day, when I came to Munich. Till Hanau I shared the train-cabin with a young lady, who was a very pleasant person to talk with. When she left, I opened the window, and did not close it till  Munich.
Even in the  tunnels. When I left the train, people looked at me, but nobody said anything.
Till I came in the hotel, and introduced myself to mister Max."
"What happened ?", asked Helene.
"My face was completely black, because of all the smoke from the locomotive, going through the tunnels.
He could not stop laughing, it took a few days to get that from my face !".

Helene nearly forgot she had just nipped the orange-juice, but remembered in time.
"Haha, that is funny !".

"A few years ago, we were in London. We were there to represent the Netherlands during the World Expo in 1889, in our traditional Volendam costume. Our part was also to open an exhibition of painter Nico Jungmann."

"Doesn't it sometimes look, as if life goes around in circles ?", said Helene, again surprised.
"Our friend David is in London now, and is having a good time there we hope."
"Yes", sighed Katherine.
"I wish Morgan would come this way too, I wonder what he is doing, we kind of lost our contact now because  he is traveling all the time too."

The waitress came to ask if she could serve the breakfast, and more people entered the restaurant.
"I hope you will  excuse me, it is getting busy now".





---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note.
I did not do this on purpose, but except our two traveling girls, all this is based on real facts.
I only discovered this two weeks ago, when Munich was already on the schedule in our story.
Mister Spaander wanted his daughters to have good experience and teaching, and was a good friend of mister Obermayer.
Hotel Die Vier Jahreszeiten is still one of the "grand hotels" of Munich, I understand.
---------------------------
Completely off-story:
The tunnel-story of Wilhelmina is also a real event, that is how she arrived.

The Amsterdam-Munich trains were served by my  colleagues from the sleepercar-departments.
I worked mainly in the restaurants to France.
There are some train-tunnels in that track.
On a very hot summerday, with late sunset, the stewards would make an announcement through the intercom.
Just before the train entered a tunnel.
( Pre-airco days). "Ladies and gentlemen, we advise you to close the windows, because we might hit some "tunnelchicken" .
This would make people wonder.
Instead of closing the window, they would stick their head outside, to see what a "tunnelchicken" might  look like.

The stewards would cut a pillow open, first throw a bucket of water through the window in the first car, and open the pillow after that. People would be "hit" by some water and the cloud of feathers coming after that.
I have never seen the result, but I can imagine...

[Henk]

" I will make you brooches and toys for your delight
Of bird-song at morning and star-shine at night,
I will make a palace fit for you and me
Of green days in forests, and blue days at sea.

I will make my kitchen, and you shall keep your room,
Where white flows the river and bright blows the broom;
And you shall wash your linen and keep your body white
In rainfall at morning and dewfall at night.

And this shall be for music when no one else is near,
The fine song for singing, the rare song to hear!
That only I remember, that only you admire,
Of the broad road that stretches and the roadside fire. "



David felt she was near, very near.
Closer as any one had ever been.

Who was she ?
It was not Brigitte, it was not Katherine or any other woman he knew yet.
Brigitte kept silent this time, she did not tell him anything.
But David knew she was near.

-------------------------------------------------
( Roadside fire, Robert Louis Stevenson  )

[Henk]

“My dear fellow,” said S. Holmes as we sat on either side of the fire in his lodgings at Baker Street, “life is infinitely stranger than anything which the mind of man could invent. We would not dare to conceive the things which are really mere commonplaces of existence. If we could fly out of that window hand in hand, hover over this great city, gently remove the roofs, and peep in at the queer things which are going on, the strange coincidences, the plannings, the cross-purposes, the wonderful chains of events, working through generations, and leading to the most outré results, it would make all fiction with its conventionalities and foreseen conclusions most stale and unprofitable.”

It took a few minutes for David, to consume the pictorial thoughts of his host.
He tried to imagine flying above London hand in hand with these two man he did not even know.

The man selling newspapers on Piccadilly Circus had advised him to go to this most famous London inhabitant.
With his best suit, he took a carriage, enjoying the scenery while driving to Baker Street.

"Very interesting case", was the first Mr. Holmes said to his guest.
"You have lost something, which you never had ?",
"Yes, I feel I am very close to it, but I have not find it yet" .

"Well, let' s start at the beginning. You have stayed in a hotel in Holland, near the lake before you came to London ? "
"Yes, I did !", said David very surprised.
"How do you...", he wanted to ask.
"Very easy, good man.   You are wearing your best suit, a man of your class wears easier clothes, when traveling and walking around in a unknown city.
You must have worn this in a good hotel."
"Yes, I did", said David, waiting for the rest.
"Well", said Mr. Holmes, " there is a unmistakable odor of  fresh fish in, which is most likely herring.
Here in England we smoke our herring, but I have once published a little study about the ways fish is handled in the different parts of Europe. This is a typical Dutch way of preparing herring to store for a longer time."

"But to help you with your case, I ask you to cooperate a little bit. I must ask you to find out what you are looking for. When you have done that, get rid of it, and I will help you to find it back "
 
David promised to do this, and thanked the two gentlemen for listening to his case.




----
quote: " A case of identity ", Sherlock Holmes

[Henk]

David realized his suit should not wear the odor of his previous visits, and when he saw a drycleaner's advertisement, he did not hesitate.
His travel-clothes were due for a good cleaning too.



"Hard case, Monsieur David !", said the owner of the nearest drycleaner.
"But we will do our best !"



David did not doubt that.



"Yes, this feels better !", were his first thoughts, when he collected his clothes the next day.\

"I am ready for the hunt "

[Henk]

Katherine and Helene had spend the day with visiting late King Ludwig II 's castle "Neuschwanstein".

"This poor man was pretty obsessed, if you ask me", said Helene.
"He even reminds me of David in some way".
"Poor he was for sure, when he died . But why David ?", asked Katherine.
"His obsession for the old legends ", answered Helene.



"That he has. But for the rest David is not like him, I think".
"Why ?", asked Helene.
"Us", answered Katherine, smiling,
"Ludwig never could have coped with us so long, on our trip to Holland. And I don't think he would have treated us like David did. I wonder what David is up to now".

The travelguide about India was stored deep in her trunk, for later use.
She promised herself to look it up in the evening, and look at the pictures of Saraswati, the India goddes of Wisdom and Creation.



David was watching the couple on the Serpentine, the lake in  Hyde Park.
"You are finding your mate, old friend ", David spoke softly to the birds, not knowing exact which of the two he should adress.



His thoughts  meandered away, till his dream from a few days ago came back in his mind, very sharp.

"It was Brigitte, and she left, promising to be back", he whispered, unheard for the young couple near him.
"Now I think of it, it is as if she followed that swan".



"Why should she follow the swan ? Did she follow or were they supposed to go together ?
Who is the swan ? Should I follow the swan too ? "

He laughed at the idea of presenting his dream to Mr. Holmes. "He should think I am insane".
But his thoughts were ahead of him.

"The Lady of Shallot curse forbid her to go to her beloved Lancelot.
Elsa was forbidden to ask her lover's name, Lohengrin, who had come to her as the Swan Knight.
I think I am a bit obsessed by these stories, but I am  glad I am not the only one".

He continued his walk. Tomorrow he had his appointment in the National Art Gallery.
He walked back from the park to Piccadilly Circus.

"I think I will have a drink, before going to the hotel".

 

[Henk]

David finished his drink,and stepped outside the pub.

"I think I will be in bed early this evening. The National Art Gallery might like my work or not, but to be a little fresh might help".

It was a bit early to have dinner, David took his time to enjoy the shopwindows he passed.
At the bookstore he stopped. The idea of having an evening of reading in his bed appealed to him.

One book caught his eye.
Anything  with a ship or the Sea in it  always caught his  attention.

The Adventures of Peter Pan by J. M. Barrie.



Published in 1904. He had never heard of it, but going by its prominent place in the window, it should be good.
He bought it.
Back in the hotel he ordered the main meal, took a bath, and went to bed.
He expected to fall asleep, but the adventures of Peter, Tink an Wendy were too nice to lay the book aside.

"Yes !", he yelled while clapping his hands.

"Why, Tink, how dare you drink my medicine?"
But she did not answer. Already she was reeling in the air.
"What is the matter with you?" cried Peter, suddenly afraid.
"It was poisoned, Peter," she told him softly; "and now I am going to be dead."
"O Tink, did you drink it to save me?"
"Yes."
"But why, Tink?"
Her wings would scarcely carry her now, but in reply she alighted on his shoulder and gave his nose a loving bite. She whispered in his ear "You silly ass," and then, tottering to her chamber, lay down on the bed.
His head almost filled the fourth wall of her little room as he knelt near her in distress. Every moment her light was growing fainter; and he knew that if it went out she would be no more. She liked his tears so much that she put out her beautiful finger and let them run over it.
Her voice was so low that at first he could not make out what she said. Then he made it out. She was saying that she thought she could get well again if children believed in fairies.
Peter flung out his arms. There were no children there, and it was night time; but he addressed all who might be dreaming of the Neverland, and who were therefore nearer to him than you think: boys and girls in their nighties, and naked papooses in their baskets hung from trees.
"Do you believe?" he cried.
Tink sat up in bed almost briskly to listen to her fate.
She fancied she heard answers in the affirmative, and then again she wasn't sure.
"What do you think?" she asked Peter.
"If you believe," he shouted to them, "clap your hands; don't let Tink die."
Many clapped.
Some didn't.
A few beasts hissed.
The clapping stopped suddenly; as if countless mothers had rushed to their nurseries to see what on earth was happening; but already Tink was saved. First her voice grew strong, then she popped out of bed, then she was flashing through the room more merry and impudent than ever. She never thought of thanking those who believed, but she would have like to get at the ones who had hissed.

"Tinker Bell is alive ! I know she is !"
 David put the book aside, and fell asleep, dreaming of a fairy visiting him, whispering in his ear.

[Henk]

A few people are reading this topic: Muppets and I

The dreamy David can not dream what the Future holds for him, and neither can I.
Only Muppets knowns exactly.
But Muppets has no internet-access at home for the moment, and I need her input to be able to continue with my part.
I send a cable to Munich, and Katherine assured me they are not in  hurry.
They are having a great time in Munich, and like to stay there a little longer before leaving for Vienna.

[felicity18]

To Henk and Muppets,

I have really enjoyed this story very much. Almost since it began I have saved all of the posts. It has turned out to be much longer than I ever thought it would. As it stands right now there are 197 pages! This thing has become a book in of its self. Keep up the good work!

felicity18

[Henk]

To Henk and Muppets,

I have really enjoyed this story very much. Almost since it began I have saved all of the posts. It has turned out to be much longer than I ever thought it would. As it stands right now there are 197 pages! This thing has become a book in of its self. Keep up the good work!

felicity18

Thanks Felicity !

[Henk]

David liked to walk in or through the London parks.

Very much he liked the street-artists, ranging from fiddlers to acrobats and magicians.
This jolly group caught his attention, performing their act near one of the entrances.
"How well these birds are trained !"
He stood their for a while, and ,without noticing, the woman in the group took notice of him



The female dancer was not really fond of the crowded underground-trains, and preferred to take the short way , when going to one of her appointments.



The next day, when she was enjoying the Spring from a unique point of view, he caught her eye again.
"Mmm", she thought, "I saw that guy yesterday, when we were dancing .
"He is One of Josephs Race, if I am allowed to use this old phrase" , she thought.
"But does he need my help ?", she asked herself.
"No. This guy knows what he is looking for, and he will find it. He does not know yet, but I do.
And he has his own angel looking after him".
Assured by this, she flew further, out of this story.

[Charlaya]

Oh! I'm reading, I'm reading!
I really love this story, but I'm hardly on the forum lately as I have a paper due on monday...
I hope they'll be a few days longer in Munich. so many things to do there!

[Henk]

Katherine and Helene had been together most of the times, after leaving France.
There had been no arguments and fights, but today they felt for going separate.
Katherine had great pleasure in visiting the glamorous and cozy Hofbrauhaus.

The dress that became her so well was not worn in Munich.
"Never wear the same thing twice as lady", she thought.
"But it is the first time I wear it here. And after all I did wear the same outfits for years in a row in Kingsport, and was still a decent lady they said" .

She heard people speak different languages, and she even came to talk with a man from Toronto.
She had never been there, while  the man had been long enough in the Hofbrauhaus this evening, to have lost some of his vocal talents.
His wife came back from a social talk outside, and seemed to have lost some of her vocal and balancing talents too.
"I wish you a nice evening, I will see you later perhaps !", she greeted the happy couple.



She walked further to her favorite table, where her new acquaintances would be.
On the way, she was greeted by the kind waitress, Frau Carla.
"Malzeit, Fraulein Katharina !".
"Malzeit, Fraulein Carla !".
Katherine liked that young woman. She was studying for English teacher, and Katherine liked the way her name was pronounced with a German touch.
"I have some examinations tomorrow, fraulein Katharina. I am so glad you helped me with  these difficult words "
"At your service, fraulein Carla ", Katherine smiled.
"Tschüss !" they greeted each other, promising to see each other later during the week.



And Helene ?
Helene had a very interesting talk with one of the guests in Die Vier Jahreszeiten two days earlier.
He was on an architectural mission, which was a favorite subject for Helene, when she was in the mood.
Today she was in the mood, while going to his room to discuss the influence of the Paris architecture in Munich.
Not knowing what to wear, she settled for an occasional plain dress.

[muppets123]

To Henk and Muppets,

I have really enjoyed this story very much. Almost since it began I have saved all of the posts. It has turned out to be much longer than I ever thought it would. As it stands right now there are 197 pages! This thing has become a book in of its self. Keep up the good work!

felicity18

Thanks Felicity !

Yes Thank U/ I am at the library now and will try to get at least one thing posted b4 iot claoses. Still no intenet  access @ home... and I have sooo much I want to contribute. I am really sorry guys.

[muppets123]

Dahlia's opening night at the Savoy was a huge success. She had two standing ovations and four curtain calls.   She  thrilled the audience  with selections from Handel, Brahams, Schumann, Debussey and Liszt.  For her encore Dahlia performed a variation of the Hungarian Rhaposodies that seguayed into a  a Scott Joplin Rag, much to the delight of the audiance and herself.

She slept in the next moring and had a light breakfast in her hotel suite.     She had two days off until her next performance and she meant to make the most of it.  She read, went for a walk and did a little shopping before she  came back to have a bath  and a nap before  her dinner engagement .
 While relaxing in her suite she thought of what she would say to Morgan.  She had checked earlier to find he made reservations  for two at a quiet corner table in the main  dining room for 9 pm.
.  She took her time getting dressed and made sure she was dressed to perfection.

The results were stunning.


  She got down to the dining room at 8:45 where she could watch everything unfold.  Morgan was at his table  looking incredibly handsome.  He had a  vase of   2 red and white intertwining roses on the table, a bottle of champagne  chilling in a bucket next to the table and an engagement ring in his  dinner jacket pocket.   He was ready for a big night... and so was  Dahlia.

[Henk]

David had a great day, taking in all the sounds, smells and sights of London on his walk.

He did not want to go to sleep immidately, and went to the lounge in the hotel.
"Maybe it is the fresh wind, but I feel like something is going to happen this night".

Just when he wanted to order "one for the road", a man came standing next to him.
"You like to dance ?", asked the man.
"With you ?", asked David, very surprised a question like this would be asked in Victorian England.
"Haha, no with us !", replied the man.
David recognized the musician he saw the day before near Hyde Park.
He also noticed an American voice, doing a strong Cockney-accent.
"You are American ?", he asked,
"Sometimes, it is not important. But do you want to dance with us ? "
"Well, eh....". David did not know what to say to this.
"I am busy tomorrow" was his answer at last.
"No, now, at this moment, come on, we are waiting for you !"

It made David curious.
"Why not, let's see how you dance !".

"We have to go on the roof for this, follow me, please !  ".

A group of craftsmen were waiting for them.
"Look at this !", said the man who asked him.

The man went in a position for dancing.



David was not really afraid of heights, and before he knew he was dancing with the group.



"How as your evening ?", asked Katherine to Helene the next day.
"It was a nice evening, I learned a lot", replied Helene.
"And yours ?", she asked.
"I had a great evening too, maybe too great. I should stick with mineral water and tea today, I think".
"Why, did you get ill? ", asked Helene.

"No", answered Katherine.
"I was brought home by a couple I know a little. They insisted"
"Oh, what happened ?", asked Helene.
"I was looking outside the window of the carriage on the way home.
And I was sure I saw a woman in the sky, hanging at an umbrella.
I did not tell the couple, but she was still there after I closed my eyes a few times ".



Helene looked her friend deep in the eyes.
"Yes, today we will have an easy day, you need some rest !", she insisted.
And that is what they did.

"I knew, I have to hang around a little bit longer", somebody whispered.
But that was too far away, high  in the sky, to be heard by anybody.
----------------------------

The dance made David very tired, he fell asleep immediate when he went to bed after the dance.
He had to get up early, he had a lot of things to do the next day.

[muppets123]

Later that day David met with the captain of a fishing boat called The Maid of The Isles.   He booked passage to Dublin on the vessel in exachage for helping with the catch, painting a portrait of the captain as an anniversary  gift for his wife and  a small courtesy fee.  David explained he grew up as a Fisherman in Bretagne and  felt a desire to get back to the sea and his roots.   The Captain, being a kind soul and not one to turn down the extra help,  gladly obliged the young man's desire.


"Aye, she's a handsome ship all right. " the Captain said  proudly as he showed David some official documents and photographs. "The Maid of the Isles is brand spanking new, just built  this year. She is a 40 ft  wooden boat with both sails and a parrafin screw motor - a twin cylinder Marine and Motor Co Engine 20 N.H.P.  Not only is  she  a working fishing boat, but we also use her for delivering the mail.  She's docked in Bristol.  Ain't she a beauty?    We shove off the day after tomorrow."

"That she is  and I am right honoured that you would let me serve aboard her, Sir" answered  David. " I'll take the train first thing in the morning to help get her loaded.  Again, many thanks."  They shook a hands and David left.  He  rushed back to  to the hotel to take care of business  and pack before setting off to Ireland.   He was passing a booking store when yet  another book caught his eye.  It made him think of  Katherine and her dreams.

  He bought it and wondered how the girls were getting along in Munich.  Katherine would like this, Peter Pan  and Mary Poppins  he thought happily as  he settled down for a good night sleep.

[Henk]

Helene looked at her friend, a little worried.
"If you keep seeing women floating in the air, I think you might see a doctor".
"A doctor ? Why, I feel fine !", answered Katherine.
"I really saw that woman, as sure as I see you now !", she went further, with an offended look on her face.
"Sure, sure", said Helene.
"But there is a doctor in Vienna, who is specialized in this type of sightings, like women in the air.
And because we are supposed to be going there withing a few days, we might see him if you still see that woman".
"I told you there is nothing wrong with me !", answered Katherine.
For the first time, they seemed to have a real argument growing.

Helene kept quiet, and looked around.
She remembered an umbrella standing in one of the cupboards.
She took it and gave it to Katherine.
Which was a very brave act of her, because the looks on Katherine's face were frightening enough. 
"What am I supposed to do with this ?".
"Well, you open it, and step out of that window and see what happens".
"I am not crazy, I will fall !", answered Katherine.
"Do you want me to do that ?".
"No ofcourse not", sadi Helene.
"You cannot just hang on to an umbrella and fly. You must admit that is a strange thing to see".

Katherine wanted to say something, but her logical thinking got the better of her.
"Who is that doctor ?", she asked.
"It is a Mister Freud. Sigmund Freud to be precise. He can look into your mind, and see things you cannot see yourself. Le Petit Journal had an article about him last year.
"Mmm, I am not sure if I want to let him see that", Katherine replied.
"Ok, if I see that woman again, I promise I will visit that man".

She would never go, because later that week, she read about him in a Munich paper, and saw he was looking for an answer himself, one he would never find: "Was will das Weib ?". ( "What does the woman want ?" )
"If he does not know the answer to that easy question, let's not bother".

"Come on, dear friend, Munich is waiting for us, we have only a few days left here", she decided.

[Henk]

"
Wien, Wien, nur du allein
Sollst stets die Stadt meiner Träume sein !
Dort, wo die alten Häuser stehn,
Dort, wo die lieblichen Mädchen gehn !
Wien, Wien, nur du allein
Sollst stets die Stadt meiner Träume sein!
Dort, wo ich glücklich und selig bin
Ist Wien, ist Wien, mein Wien ! "


  Rudolf Sieczynski

Helene could not resist singing, while walking through sunny Vienna, on their first morning in Vienna.

"Please, Helene, people are looking at us !", said Katherine, trying to calm her friend down to a more modest mood.
"Never mind, dear friend. We are in Wien now, in Vienna, the city of music and elegance !" .



"It sure is !", admitted Katherine.
She admired the shopwindows, which were all dressed up for Spring.

" The church of the chimney-sweepers" . explained Helene, eager as ever to know what she saw.
"That is odd", said Katherine.
"I dreamed of chimney-sweepers this night. A chaotic dream that was. They were dancing on the roofs of London. I should not have eaten that cheese last night after dinner."



Even Katherine knew about the Vienna coffee-houses, while still in Canada.
"Let's have one, before we continue, will we ?". she begged Helene, who seemed to be in the mood to walk forever. But a Wiener Melange would do for her as well.



Helene grabbed a newspaper from the reading-table, and had a quick glance through it, while Katherine had a look in the pastry-display.
"Wow ! Do you remember that concert we heard in Amsterdam, from Mahler ?"
"Yes, I do", answered Katherine, "would you like the strawberry or the hazelnut pastrie ?".
"I go for the strawberry, it is Spring", smiled Helene.
"Me too."
"But about Mahler. The poor guy is going to lose his wife, it says here in the gossip-page" .
"Signed by Rachel Lynde ?", thought Katherine.
"His wife, Alma seems to be a gifted painter and musician herself. But Gustav is demanding one hundred percent obligation and dedication from her, to make sure his creativity and work will no be disturbed."
"Mmmm", said Katherine,"that sounds familiar too me !".
They both laughed.
"And now she has a new lover, while they are still married. Walter Gropius, an architect ".
"She does not want to fit in that strict regime anymore, the article says"



"And that sounds familiar to me too. I think you have to make your point before you marry, and not after"
said Katherine.
She was feeling more confident as ever.
"Waiter ?"
"Yes, Fraulein ?"
"Can we have the same again, please ?"
"Two Wiener Melange ?", he asked.
"Yes, and two more strawberry-pastries !"
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Note:
I posted about Gustav and Alma before.

Alma's artistic talents were recognized by many in Vienna, but were  oppressed by her lovers and husbands, starting with Gustav Mahler.
She would become a muse for many artists, and has broken as many hearts in Vienna, later in New York.

[muppets123]

Nine O'clock came and went and there was no sign of Katherine entering the dining room. The moments ticked by, 9:15. 9:30. 9:40 and she was still nowhere to be seen.  Morgan ordered a bourbon and sat quietly at the table, perusing the menu and fidgeting with the little box concealed in his pocket. In his mind he was rehearsing what he would say to his beloved when he gave her the ring. At 9:45, a waiter came by and asked Morgan if he would like to order dinner, Morgan declined but did order another drink. The waiter brought it, along with some fresh baked bread and butter.

"Where could she be?", thought Morgan as he took a bite of the bread. His mind drifted back to the days they had before she left on her journey. They seemed so long ago. He wondered if he would recognize her. She wasn't acting like the same woman that left him in Avonlea. Did she go and change her looks? Would she be sophisticated and sassy? Would she still need him?


From another part of the dining room Dahlia watched this man. Finally at 10 O'clock she decided to relieve him of his misery.
" Excusez-moi, Mister Harris?" she said standing at his table." My name is Dahlia and I have a message for you from Mlle. Katherine Brooke. May I please seet down?"

Morgan look up quite surprised at the beautiful young woman who stood before him.
"Oh ummm yes", he said quickly snapping out of his reverie. "Is she alright?  Is she ill?"
Dahlia sat down and studied his face. It was one of concern mixed with a little bit of remorse and passion, possibly a little more visible due to the bourbon.
 
'She ees, how you say, okay but she sends her regrets that she cannot be here tonight. My name is Dahlia and I am a student of hers from La Sorbonne in Paris. The ship that was bringing her, David  to England had engine trouble so they were delayed and she won't be able to come after all.  She knew I was going to be in London for a concert next door at the theatre so she sent word to me to come tell you she was not able make it."

"Why didn't she call me herself?"

Dahlia was quick. "They were so busy trying to make alternative arrangements, monsieur.  Their train was leaving she just did not have time.  I think they are heading to Switzerland or Italy but I cannot be sure. The telephone connection was very bad as she said there was a storm.  I am terribly sorry.  I know how  disappointed you must be",  she patted his arm sympathetically.  Noticing his empty drink glass and the  bottle of champagne she added"  I know you probably have lost your appetite, but you should try to eat something.   I will keep you company. It is the least I can do."

  Morgan seemed lost trying to comprehend everything.  Then he came back to Earth "Oh, of course. I am sorry it's just that it has taken me by surprise.  Please stay, I have many questions."   He called the waiter over and they ordered soup,  salad and a small  steak.  Mayn I offer you a drink?"  She nodded and he poured her a glass of champagne.

[Henk]

"I love this city, I really do !", sighed Katherine after finishing the breakfast, wiping her lips with a napkin and checking her appearance in the mirror.
"I suggest we are going for the real thing this afternoon, Katherine".
"And what might that be ", asked Katherine, whose thoughts were meandering between Vienna and Canada.
"It is difficult to get into contact now with Morgan, not knowing from each other, where we are yet.Sometimes I wished I was back in Paris".

Helene brought her back to the real thing, when she mentioned her plans.
"Let's go to Hotel Sacher, and have a real Sacher Torte ?", she asked.

"Oh yes !", agreed Katherine, forgetting all her previous thoughts for the moment.
Katherine was always good with getting her priorities in good order.





"Yes, Helene...This is the real thing !"

[Henk]

"Can I have this dance from you, please ? ",  Morgan asked Dahlia.


Many that were present in the Hotel Savoy ballroom that night would remember how one couple seemed to have defeated the law of Gravity while enjoying their dance.




"Can I have this dance from you, please ? ",  Katherine was asked by a handsome gentleman.


Many that were present in the Hotel Sacher ballroom that night would remember how one couple seemed to have defeated the law of Gravity while enjoying their dance.

[muppets123]

David  took the train to  Bristol.  On the way, he finished reading Peter Pan.    He thought of Wendy and Tinkerbelle. He loved the illustrations and the story.
.  He walked from the train station to the harbour lost in thought.   He knew she should  get to the harbour as quickly as possible but for  some strange reason he was inexplicably drawn towards a little  bookstore about  three blocks from the harbour.  When he got there he immediately knew why.  There in the window was a another sign from Brigitte.


In his heart he knew he just had to have those three little bonze fairies,  but they would be too heavy to carry with him to Ireland.  He made the purchase and  explained his predicament to the owner.  He asked  if he could have the package shipped to his friends the Boncouers, in Paris, to hold for him  until he got back home.   The shopkeeper obliged.  David quickly wrote a note to Henri and Claire, asking them to hold the package until he he returned.    The shopkeeper asked a few questions about David's excursion and recommended some books for the journey.   David mentioned that he  hoped to read Around the World in 80 Days  in between his research.
"Oh then you must get this one", the shopkeeper exlcaimed enthusiastically as he handed David a lovely illustrated  copy of  Jules Verne's Five Weeks in a Balloon.


" Oh but of course, this is wonderful.  Thank you, " David relplied  glancing at the illustrations.  I'll take it."   He paid for his items, gave the owner the address to send the  statues and was on his way to the harbour.
He located the captain of the Maid of the Isles; met the crew; stowed his gear and was helping load the ship and getting her ready to set sail.  He handled himself like an expert, the skills of his youth coming back to him easily.   In no time  at all they  hoisted anchor and were underway.

[muppets123]

Morgan and Dahlia danced the Waltz, the Cakewalk  and the Tango.   The was a fire and passion for both of them  though at times Morgan seemed to forget where he was.  They finshed their meal and drank the champagne.
  Morgan asked about Katherine and Dahlia exclaimed.
"She is having the time of her life, Monsiour.  She is learning to enjoy the Joie de Vivre.  You would not recognize her.  I think France and her friendships with Helene, David, the Boncoeurs and her students like moi have been very good for her."
Mogan inquired about David but since Dahlia  did not know too much about him and did not want to destroy her cover, she  was  slightly evasive." He is  charming, handsome and kind. But then,  most of the Frenchman I know are", she said with a coquettish giggle.
Morgan was not amused and Dahlia could sense it.   She then  got his attention off  Katherine but  having the band to play some ragtime.  A peice called the Aggravation Rag



 Morgan and Dahlia were certainly lighting up the ballroom.  After a few more drinks and dances  Dahlia suggested they go into the garden to get some fresh air.  Morgan agreed.   Things were beginning to spin and he needed a quiet place to think.
" I know you are upset Morgan and I will not bother you.  I will just sit here quietly next to you and keep you company.   I know you miss Mlle.  Katherine,  but you should not be lonely, she looked deep into his  eyes.  He nodded solemly and led her out of the ballroom.



In the garden he sat down and looked at her. " Dahlia, I can't be here with you like this this.  I love Katherine."
"I know and no one is asking you to do anything Monsiour.  Katherine has changed and you just need some time to get used to it.  But get used to it you must. You cannot stay stuck in how you say, the  stone age monsiour, or you will end up extinct like the dinosaur."  Now you can be miserable  by yourself or you can come with me and be happy.   I have some friends I would like you to meet."  Morgan was confused, but sad and also slightly intrigued so he got up and followed her....

[Henk]

"You are not Brigitte...Who are you ?", asked David.
"Don't you know me ?", asked the little female figure, while she continued her dance.
Obviously with a lot of pleasure.
"You are like Tinkerbell, I read about you. Are you Tinkerbell ?", David asked
"Maybe ?", the figure replied with a very teasing sound in her voice.
"Maybe that is one of my names, you can call me like that if you want.
There could be many other names I listen to, just try and see if I show up !"

"But Tinkerbell is just a person in a story, you cannot be Tinkerbell !".

For a moment she stopped her dance.
"If you don't believe in me, I will go away. Do you want that ?"
"No !", answered David.
He kind of liked the little figure, who did not seem to be afraid of him at all.
"Think, my friend, think !", she said to him.
"You gave a picture of me away to your best friend, Katherine, remember ?"
David remembered what he gave Katherine.
"The amulet ?", he asked.
"You are a smart boy !", she replied.
"But that was not you !", he almost yelled.
" She looked different ! "

To his surprise, she started to sing with a light voice :

    "O, then, I see Queen Mab hath been with you.
    She is the fairies’ midwife, and she comes
    In shape no bigger than an agate-stone
    On the fore-finger of an alderman,
    Drawn with a team of little atomies
    Over men’s noses as they lie asleep;
    Her wagon-spokes made of long spinners’ legs,
    The cover of the wings of grasshoppers,
    The traces of the smallest spider’s web,
    The collars of the moonshine’s watery beams,
    Her whip of cricket’s bone; the lash of film;
    Her waggoner a small grey-coated gnat,
    Not half so big as a round little worm
    Prick’d from the lazy finger of a maid:
    Her chariot is an empty hazel-nut
    Made by the joiner squirrel or an old grub,
    Time out o’ mind the fairies’ coachmakers.
    And in this state she gallops night by night
    Through lovers’ brains, and then they dream of love;
    O’er courtiers’ knees, that dream on court’sies straight,
    O’er lawyers’ fingers, who straight dream on fees,
    O’er ladies ‘ lips, who straight on kisses dream,
    Which oft the angry Mab with blisters plagues,
    Because their breaths with sweetmeats tainted are:
    Sometime she gallops o’er a courtier’s nose,
    And then dreams he of smelling out a suit;
    And sometime comes she with a tithe-pig’s tail
    Tickling a parson’s nose as a’ lies asleep,
    Then dreams, he of another benefice:
    Sometime she driveth o’er a soldier’s neck,
    And then dreams he of cutting foreign throats,
    Of breaches, ambuscadoes, Spanish blades,
    Of healths five-fathom deep; and then anon
    Drums in his ear, at which he starts and wakes,
    And being thus frighted swears a prayer or two
    And sleeps again. This is that very Mab
    That plaits the manes of horses in the night,
    And bakes the elflocks in foul sluttish hairs,
    Which once untangled, much misfortune bodes:
    This is the hag, when maids lie on their backs,
    That presses them and learns them first to bear,
    Making them women of good carriage:
    This is she—"

   ( — Mercutio in Romeo and Juliet, Act I, scene IV )

"Are you Mab, Queen of Fairies ?", he asked.



"If you believe so, I will be very happy", she said, again with a smile.
"You will see me again soon !".
She left the bubble she had been dancing in all that time, and flew away without saying another word "
"Where are you going, why..."

"Hey laddy ! get up ! You are wanted in the machineroom, sleep you can when we are at the other side!"
The captain of the vessel he sailed on was standing above him.
"Sorry Sir, I never meant to fall asleep I am so sorry ! "
The captain tried to look angry, but waved him away with his hand.
"Go now, and stop dreaming about sweet lassies !".

------------------------------------------------
Note: I have to be modest here: I know some little bits and pieces from Shakespeare, but I am by no means an expert. I found that quote while searching for Queen Mab.

[muppets123]

David worked very hard the next two days trying to make up for falling asleep when he should have been in the machine room. He did not want to be on bad terms with the Captain. He hauled and cleaned catch; mended nets ; swabbed decks; repaired wire traps; climbed and cleaned the crow's nest, sorted and bundled mail; helped in the galley; and sketched the crew working for official reports and advertising brochures. The captain was a friendly chap who seemed to like David.  But he also knew that he could not show David any type of favoritism, at least not officially, nor in front of the rest of the crew.

While sorting mail David's thoughts turned to the three bronze fairies he sent to the Boncouers to hold for him. It puzzled him as he knew they were a sign from Brigitte but could not fathom exactly what it meant. One he instinctively knew was Brigitte and the other Katherine, but who was the third one? Was she the special one meant to guide him and be his soul mate?


After dinner David went to the Captain's quarters to being the painting. Reading would have to wait, he sighed. He a job to do and a promise to keep.  While the Captain posed, he and David spoke of art, the sea and of books. The Captain relaxed with a glass of brandy. He also kept some water and coffee on hand in case it turned into a long night. David took a small sip of brandy, to be polite, but preferred to stick with water and coffee while he worked. He had to keep his wits about him. David discovered that the Captain had read both Jules Verne novels and recommended them highly.

"I wonder if Katherine might enjoy a balloon trip over the French chateau and wine country? It would be marvellous to show her what it looks like from above. I don't believe she has ever experienced anything quite like that,nor have I.  Can You imagine the peace and  beauty  suspended up there?"  David thought out loud and smiled.



"Aye, is she your sweetheart, lad?" the Captain inquired.
David paused, " ummm no.  Just a very special friend, a kindred spirit you might say. But I believe she has been sent to me to help me find the love of my life.  She has longed for adventure, love and acceptance ... and together we will help each other find and fulfill our respective dreams."
"Sent by whom laddie?" The Captain seemed quite intrigued.
"It's a long story sir and I don't wish to burden you with it."
"Fair enough lad, I won't pry into yer affairs. Me and the Missus will be married 20 years come summer. This painting is a gift for her along with the promise that I will officially retire as Captain and spend more time on land with her.""
David continued to work in silence for the next hour. Then the captain got up and stretched.
"I think it's time we knock off for the night lad," he said as he poured himself and David a drink. Coming around to David's side he admired the painting, put a gentle but firm hand on David's shoulder and handed  him the glass." Aye t'is going to be a fine gift to give to my angel. I knew ye had it in ye the moment I met ye", he said with a wink.  "Now get to yer readin' lad and then get some sleep. If the winds and Saints be with us we should be docking in Dublin in time for supper tomorrow. If the painting is not done by then, we'll just have to keep ye around til it's  finished, won't we?"
"Yes sir" David  nodded and gathered up his things,  but left the painting on the easel to dry and went to his cabin.