Elizabeth, Elspeth, Betsy and Bess
All went together to seek a birds nest.
They found a nest with five eggs in.
they each took one, and left four in
Edouard groaned. Not that damn song again! He was greeted promptly by a shimmer of laughter.
"Oh Edourad, Edouard, Edouard. Y'should have left well enough alone." Another sprinkle of humor was set free. "But then I wouldn't have the pleasure of your company would I: if y'paid attention?"
Refusing to open his eyes and admit to where he now knew he must be Edouard retraced his most recent memories. Oh hell! He should have known what was afoot. He always was too eager when pretty face caught his eye. Sighing he opened his eyes and gazed sardonically at the figure lounging against the cabin wall.
"Well, now that you have my undivided attention, what will you do with it?"
Straightening easily from the wall the figure moved gracefully towards Edouard and tapped him on the nose. If Edouard had been in a better position, say upright and with his hands free, he might have done something regrettable. Instead he held grimly to his smile as the figure turned saying:
"Only what it deserves to be done with. Ta! Edouard." The cabin door clicked softly shut.
Left alone Edouard released his mask and sighing yet again morosely eyed his boots. Blast! They were smudged.
Later... "I've told y' too many times to put up wth y'r foolishness! Y'll either take care of what I gives y' or I'll put y' back where I found y'!"
Asmall figure cowered, shielding itself froma towering form silloueted against the lamplight.
"Now now. I'm sorry I lost me temper. But understand: I'm all y' have. Come now. Make it up t' me. Let's have a nice time like we did last night, eh?"
For a brief moment the starlight was reflected from his cheek as Edouard lay dreaming.
Early dawn...
Foul. Foul, foul, foul. What he wouldn't give for a glass of water now to erase the taste of too many days gone past. Sitting up suddenly his eyes widened with shock. Edouard stared at his hands. Free! But when andhow… abruptly his glittering eyes slitted in thought. More to the point, who? Shakng his head he set aside the puzzle for a more leisurely moment.
With his ears straining and body tensed he moved to the door and paused. Pushing gently he was not altogether surprised when it gave way on to an empty corridor. Well, well. Will miracles never cease to amaze ... the foolhardy. Running both hands through his hair to settle it in place, his lips half twisted into a mocking smile, Edouard paused only long enough to reclaimhis hat from the cabin. Too bad about the walking stick. He would just have to acquire a new one, soon.