Everyone sat around the campfire insilence, lost in his own thoughts. The sounds of the waves lappingsteadily at the shore and the crickets’ melody in the woods werepeaceful and calming.

Konic was the first to stir as he wentto the long duffel bag and pulled out some blankets. He handed oneto each of the group and rolled his into a pillow. “Not much sensegoing back to town tonight,” he announced. “It’s been a while sinceI camped out, but the night is fair and I am tired. First up shouldput on a pot of coffee.” With that he stretched out on the groundand went to sleep. Everyone soon followed.

Arik awoke to the smell of coffee andoatmeal. He sat up and looked around. It took a while for him toget his bearings and realize where he was. The two men were quietlycleaning up the campground. The only things not packed in theduffel bag were two cups and bowls and the oatmeal and coffee potsthat were on the fire as well as the two blankets that he and Tediwere using. Arik leaned over and shook Tedi, who groggilyawoke.

Konic looked over at the twosleepy-eyed boys. “Morning comes early and the fish won’t wait,” hechuckled. “You boys clean up and store the gear somewhere safebefore you go off hunting. I think we will spend a few more dayscamping out if that is not objectionable to anyone.” Master Markelwas whistling a tune gaily as the two men headed towards theboat.

Arik got himself some coffee and filleda cup for Tedi. “Your father seems in a good mood this morning,” heremarked. “What did you say to him last night?”

Tedi rubbed his eyes and reached forthe cup. “Just something the merchant made me realize,” he answeredsoftly. “I think your father had already softened him up by thetime I spoke to him, though. Whatever the cause, it sure makes mefeel good. I’m not going to be getting into any moretrouble.”