The Sleuth Down-Under

By Rosemary Ayles

Henrietta Copeland accompanied by Compass, her chocolate brown Labrador, begin this fictitious crime tetralogy.
On losing her sight in an industrial accident just before she turns 50, she throws away her palette of paints and brushes and picks up a pen to write of the sounds and scents from the river at Goolwa.
Proud of being dabbed with the title Sleuth Down-Under, Henrietta becomes the owner of a paddle wheeler she names Laurel Wreath. She and her co-poets, the Cruising Poets, provide the venue for other artists on daily cruises along the mighty River Murray at Goolwa, South Australia.
Unforeseen chaos on one of the cruises has Henrietta fearing the parting of ways with her career onboard Laurel Wreath. But along comes an invitation for Laurel Wreath and Cruising Poets to paddle to Milang and co-host a nostalgia party where the undercurrent causes turbulence and has Henrietta putting all her sleuthing skills to the test.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Austin Macauley Publishers
• Release date: Jul 30, 2021
• ISBN: 9781528908573

Rosemary Ayles

Rosemary Ayles lives on a five-acre property on the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia with her husband, Don, where Eucalypt Gum Trees grow on the fringe. When her two sons arrive with her three grandsons, they race out to the trees, competing to climb the highest branch. Rosemary spends a great deal of time walking the beaches on both sides of the Peninsula, Normanville to Carrickalinga where the ocean is emerald, sand pink and rainbows orange; Middleton to Victor Harbor where dolphins and whales often frolic in the bay. After those walks, she returns to her desk and writes whatever has inspired her.

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About the Author

Rosemary Ayles lives on a five-acre property on the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia with her husband, Don, where Eucalypt Gum Trees grow on the fringe. When her two sons arrive with her three grandsons, they race out to the trees, competing to climb the highest branch. Rosemary spends a great deal of time walking the beaches on both sides of the Peninsula, Normanville to Carrickalinga where the ocean is emerald, sand pink and rainbows orange; Middleton to Victor Harbor where dolphins and whales often frolic in the bay. After those walks, she returns to her desk and writes whatever has inspired her.

Dedication

To my friends Barb, Estelle and Jocelyn with whom I share the joy of creative writing.

Copyright Information ©

Rosemary Ayles (2021)

The right of Rosemary Ayles to be identified as author of this work has been asserted by the author in accordance with section 77 and 78 of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publishers.

Any person who commits any unauthorised act in relation to this publication may be liable to criminal prosecution and civil claims for damages.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales, and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

A CIP catalogue record for this title is available from the British Library.

ISBN 9781788783996 (Paperback)

ISBN 9781788787888 (Hardback)

ISBN 9781528908573 (ePub e-book)

www.austinmacauley.com

First Published (2021)

Austin Macauley Publishers Ltd

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E14 5LQ

Henrietta and the Canine Lantern

Chapter One

Antiseptic, that’s what I can smell. The stench woke me. And these sheets feel like cardboard. Gosh, my head hurts. Did I fall while pole dancing? Nah, I’m too good at it to fall, but I’m obviously in hospital, this certainly isn’t my bed or any other I’ve slept in recently. Oh no, oh no, now I remember. That explosion at the plant. Oh my gosh, what about Forbes? He was working alongside me on project X9.

Where am I? I yelled so loud my throat hurt. Hello, is somebody out there? This is Henrietta Copeland. I reached out and fumbled for a light on what felt like a table at the bedside. Hello, hello, would somebody come in here to help me find a lamp or something. I heard thundering footsteps coming toward me. When the footsteps ceased, I heard the runner panting, then a soft feminine voice.

Henrietta, I’m Nurse Mansfield. You are in the Adelaide Hospital. Do you remember the accident at the paper mill?

How did I get here? My workplace is in the south east of the state. Will you turn on the light, nurse?

You arrived by air ambulance, part of the Flying Doctor service.

Mm, the light please, ‘Nurse Mans’. Sorry, what did you say your name is? Never mind, just turn on the light so I can see you.

She took hold of my wrist while she introduced herself. Nurse Mansfield, but you can call me Lesley.

Bloody hell, Lesley, please turn on the light. Her fingers tightened on my pulse. I’m sorry I yelled at you, but I’ve asked you three times.

The nurse dropped my wrist and began shuffling my pillows, whispering she hadn’t taken offence. I raised myself up on my elbows. I could feel her breath in my face as she spoke.

Your twin nieces are outside.

Pearl and Chiffon are here? Well, bring them in, but Lesley, for goodness sake would you please turn on the light and do you think I could have something to ease this pain, it’s right across the front of my head? I dropped back onto the soft pillows where I couldn’t feel her breath in my face, but could hear her breathing as she spoke.

Doctor Ackerman, the surgeon who operated on you will be in very soon.

When did I have surgery? And why?

Your surgery was three days ago. We’ve paged Doctor Ackerman, told him you’re awake. When he arrives, he will answer all your questions.

I ran my hands up and down each of my arms then over the rest of my body. Everything seemed in its right place. The only thing that felt bad was my head. It ached from my cheekbones across my brow to the back of my head, where it’s all bandaged. Why won’t she turn the light on? Is my face disfigured? I reached out and tugged on her skirt.

Lesley, please would you turn on the light.

Ms Copeland, it’s eleven o’clock in the morning, there is no need for the light to be turned on.

I tugged harder on the garment she wore, pulling with both hands.

What do you mean, no need to turn on the light? I’m in total darkness.

Yes, Henrietta, I know you are. Now hold out your hand. I have the tablet to relieve your pain.

I couldn’t stop myself; I flung my arms in the direction of her voice, heard the glass crash on the floor. I yelled as loud as I could, Pearl, Chiffon. I felt the needle pierce my flesh.

I woke to the sound of deep breathing, possibly masculine, who reeked of sickly shaving lotion.

Doctor Ackerman, I presume.

Hello, Henrietta, yes, I’m Doctor Ackerman. How are you feeling?

Frightened, very frightened. I’m about to celebrate my fiftieth birthday in a couple of weeks and I fear I will do that without seeing all those who intend to yell ‘surprise’.

The doctor held my hand, waiting for me to stop sobbing. His hand felt soft and he spoke with compassion.

We did everything possible, but the damage was too extensive. Yes, Henrietta, it is my heart-breaking duty to tell you, you have lost your sense of sight. You are a healthy lady. Energetic too. I’ve spoken with your nieces, they told me you teach pole dancing in your spare time and they suspect you do a little of it yourself.

Well, I guess I won’t be able to do that anymore.

There is more to life than pole dancing, Henrietta.

I’m a scientist. My career is gone too.

I’m sure you have made a great contribution to science already. There will be other career opportunities for a lady with your intelligence, meanwhile, you rest.

THREE MONTHS LATER

I stood hugging the hostess of the Perfumed Hospitality Centre.

Is there anything I can do for you before you leave us, Henrietta? I dropped the embrace.

Yes, I’d like to dictate a message to be written in your guests’ book if you have one. She guided me into a huge comfortable leather chair, I relaxed taking advantage of the armrest. I heard her walk away, possibly to the other side of the desk in front of me.

I have my pen ready and the guests’ book is in front of me. Start when you are ready.

I began slowly. Adjusting to life in constant darkness is the hardest thing I’ve ever been forced to endure. When I arrived here at this fragrant centre, I honestly wanted to die, but with the assistance of dedicated staff and friendship of residents plus the loyal devotion of my twin nieces, Chiffon and Pearl, I’m ready to begin the challenge of living life to the fullest, using the power of my existing senses. I signed my name with affection and gratitude using the fountain pen the hostess pressed into my hand and guided to the end of my message in the book.

I will miss you, Henrietta, you might not realise how fond I’ve become of you. I hugged her awkwardly, this time, as she attempted to assist me out of the chair. Pearl and Chiffon are waiting for you in the foyer. They have all your belongings packed and ready to go. Good luck, beautiful lady.

I knew it was Pearl at my elbow because I heard her whisper, You take the luggage and I’ll take Auntie Hen. Chiffon calls me Aunt Etta.

Where are you taking me?

Firstly, Auntie, to the car. We are then going to your unit at North Adelaide where our partners Alistair and Chad hopefully have prepared the place for you.

But, girls, don’t you remember I bought that cottage overlooking the River Murray at Goolwa. I intend to live there.

I was seated in the back seat of the car, Pearl sat next to me, holding my hand while Chiffon took up the position of driver, before they spoke again.

Auntie Hen, Alistair and Chad are not only obstacle proofing the hallways in your unit, we all five of us have to sit around your kitchen table and work out strategies for our lifestyles,

Well, that kitchen table is no stranger to accommodating us for that purpose. I’m hungry do you suppose they’ve got something edible to put on the table too?

I heard the key go in the ignition, realising they knew I’m ready to listen to their negotiations knowing there to be food on the table everything else will fall into place.

There’s plenty of food in the freezer, said Chiffon, we were preparing to give you a surprise birthday party, turning half a century and all.

Really, that would have been a big surprise, because you had both hinted you were up to your bobby pin in the fashion house and I remember letting you off gently by saying I didn’t want the world to know I was turning fifty.

Well, the world doesn’t know, Chiffon assured me, just the people in our little world, because we sent out invites via text messages and emails emphasising the fact you were about to hit the quinquagenarian decade.

Pearl added, I doubt any of them know what that is.

I’m surprised you two do.

Yeah, we came across it by accident in one of those brain teasers the Saturday paper puts out in their magazine section.

I have to listen closely to voice tone to know which niece is speaking. Obviously, it was Chiffon, her voice is monotone, while Pearl’s is somewhat high pitched. Whoever said what, didn’t matter, we were all calm and happy.

Seated at the kitchen table in the unit I had bought with the inheritance from my parents’ estate about eighteen years ago where I could hang up my coat between contracts during my career as a scientist all over the state, never have I felt so alien to my surroundings as I do today. Pearl and Chiffon had taken me to every room, reminding me of steps or slopes, distances from the dressing table to my bed, the bathroom and toilet I’d often visit in the dark saving on electricity so that was one area we didn’t have to worry about.

Oh dear, however will I cope, I said as I sighed, believing I was on my own at the table while the girls prepared a meal for whatever time of the day it is. The male voice responding was somewhat of a surprise.

That is why we are all here, Henrietta.

I tried hard to distinguish the voice, masculine, yet soft and gentle. Is that you, Chad?

Yes. I’m sitting on the opposite side of the table. I’m wearing an open necked cotton business shirt, pale blue with a fine darker stripe. My sunglasses are resting on top of my head because Pearl said it is quite fashionable, but for me it’s a safe place for them.

Thanks, Chad. Tell me a little more about yourself because on those few occasions we socialised you were always cooking the steaks or cleaning up the barbeque. I reckon it must be two years since we had one of those wing dings.

Mm, well I always agree with Pearl and she says I’m very good looking. She just loves my blond hair, not short not long, fashionable cut, she says and I have eyes like the ocean, aqua marine, I think she describes them. If I stand on my tip toes, I am six-foot tall, but on my passport if I had one, I would be obliged to state 5 feet 11 and a half inches.

If memory serves me correctly, Pearl liked her men to be well built, nice square shoulders and a bit of muscle showing in the upper arm.

You know your niece. She always gets what she wants. However, I’m not going to divulge anything more of my physique.

Pity. Now who else is here?

You and I are the only ones at the table. Pearl is at the sink preparing lunch, Chiffon is in the laundry washing the clothes you brought home and Alistair is outside cutting the lawn.

Maybe you would like to tell me a little about your career, Chad. If memory serves me correctly, I believe you to be a librarian.

That has only recently happened. His voice took on an excited twang, a bit like a little boy. After university, I was disappointed no library was holding the door open awaiting my arrival. Reluctantly I took a job at our local council, behind the desk, not collecting the rubbish, although I wanted to be a librarian so desperately, I would have if it led to my passion to work with books, particularly history.

I’d say congratulations is in order. I heard plates plonked on the table.

Grubs up, Chiffon called.

My sister means lunch is now served, Pearl announced. Go get Alistair, she added.

Alistair, Chiffon yelled, come and get it.

I heard a scraping sound at the back door. Obviously, Alistair was used to being called to meals in that fashion and was scraping lawn clippings from his shoes.

Take them off, Chad said. I’ve just vacuumed.

You’ve been living with Pearl too long. Hello, Henrietta, remember me, Alistair the accountant.

How could I forget Alistair the accountant? Couldn’t you have chosen something else, a lawyer or doctor? Anything but an accountant.

Be grateful young lady, your niece didn’t know how to handle petty cash until she met me.

Do you want me to teach you, Aunt Etta?

No, thank you, I manage to stay in the red or is it black?

The jocularity continued with the lunch. It was good to be among loved ones, but by the time desert was served and eaten, business became the topic. Starting with Alistair asking about finances, compensation, power of attorney all the stuff to turn a party sour.

And I bought that lovely cottage on the Esplanade overlooking the Murray River at Goolwa knowing I had an insurance policy maturing on my fiftieth birthday. For years I had rented it as a haven between contracts, working with my acrylic paint and brushes splashing scenes on canvas. So, folks, I know the layout as well as here in this unit, I’d like to live my life down there.

It’s a possibility, I think it was Chad who spoke.

I hear it’s a possibility and no buts from female voices. Tell me about the possibility.

"You’re right, Auntie Hen, there is a condition, which is just a fancier word and but’s second cousin. Chad this is your call."

Thanks, Pearl. Henrietta, I hope you were paying attention to our little chat earlier this morning about the job I took while waiting for a vacancy at the library.

I was impressed with your tenacity of purpose and it paid off. I heard him wriggle in his seat before he spoke again.

While I sugar-coated the job, duties were often shared around. Sometimes one was expected to cover his blue-collar shirt with overalls and go out as dog catcher. If I was honest, I’d admit to enjoying being out on the road rescuing dogs better than sitting at a computer filing complaints.

I must have showed signs of impatience because I heard Pearl whisper, Get to the point honey.

Yes, honey, I imitated, I’m anxious to know where this is leading.

An abandoned three-month-old puppy I picked up. I couldn’t believe it to have been abandoned, I honestly thought it fell off a ute or walked away from the property.

Move along, Chad, Chiffon said, this family has had enough heart break.

"Okay, to make a long story short, I took the puppy home with me. A beautiful Labrador with a deep chocolate brown coat, the most intelligent animal I’ve ever known. I called the state dog assistance company and was told they breed their own puppies, besides chocolate was not an accepted colour, only gold or black. I tried other states that train dogs to assist vision-impaired people found one in Tasmania called The Canine Lantern. Pearl gave me leave of absence and I took the chocolate fella to Hobart. When we heard the heart-breaking news of your injuries Henrietta, I phoned the Canine Lantern Company and was told my little chocolate fella has been named Compass and is ready for a client."

You think I’m the client?

A chorus of ‘yes’ bellowed between the walls of the unit.

Guys, I’ve just told you my financial situation. I’ve committed that insurance policy to the cottage at Goolwa and compensation for my injuries will take forever to come, there will be court cases, that’s what you should be, Alistair, a lawyer screaming for my pay-out.

But, Henrietta, this thrifty accountant has done better than any lawyer. He paused and said, You tell her, Chiffon.

Why me?

Because she’s your aunt.

Out with it, Chiffon, I said as I had often done when she was a child.

Well, Aunt Etta, she paused, and I heard someone perhaps Pearl, whisper ‘keep going.’

Quite some time ago, I got lonely after Chad persuaded Pearl to move in with him. I went looking, successfully, for a handsome tall dark headed, olive skinned man, someone you’d describe as a ‘hunk’ you know the muscles in the upper arms, broad shoulders six foot two without standing on tip toes and an accountant to boot. He had a house, close to where Chad and Pearl were living, close to our fashion house.

Pearl could obviously see her sister struggling she said, And knowing our aunt’s rule if we lived in your unit rent free, we were not to entertain male companions on a live-in basis.

I did say that, equally from a legal aspect as well as moral – you know your Sunday school teachings. Get to the point, Chiffon.

I invited her to come live with me, Alistair said. And me being the astute accountant we sub-let the unit.

Are you taking half the blame or credit Alistair?

Credit, because Chiffon’s Aunt Etta, we put the rent money in a trust fund and now we have plenty, Pearl butted in, Plus what we saved by not giving you a 50th birthday party.

See I’ve educated thrift in your other niece too. Now we have enough to get the Canine Lantern, Compass, to be your 24/7 companion.

What do you say, Auntie Hen. Chad has a lady named Ebony standing by. She is prepared to fly out with Compass tomorrow, stay here with you for one week, adjusting you to the canine and spend another week with you at your cottage at Goolwa.

I’ve always loved dogs and never really had one of my very own. Hey guys, I’m almost glad I only have four functioning senses. Please, Chad, make the call to Ebony.

Chapter Two

A new beginning for me today, a second chance at life; Ebony and the twins are confident I have bonded with the Canine Lantern, a chocolate Labrador who never leaves my side or is alerted to the call ‘Compass come.’ Today will be the first time, us, bonded pair, walk to the bird hide solo. Since arriving at this cottage at Goolwa one week ago, Ebony the official dog handler and my niece Chiffon had accompanied us to all the places I told them I would like to visit frequently.

I picked up the harness and called, Compass come. I heard his paws on the parquetry floor. He had obeyed my command. Bird hide, I said when we reached the front gate.

I had forgotten the tranquillity of the river’s edge; the gentle lapping of water against boats moored at the piers, the screech of seagulls, the soft breeze touching my face as I walked along, Compass trotting at my left side. I can sense his concentration. I think we must be getting close now because the sound of bird activity has heightened, almost sounding like an orchestra tuning. The splash of a pelican as it hits the water from flight followed by the noise of him gliding along. Compass is right on target. He is merging me left, I can feel the timber decking beneath my feet. I reached for the rail for support on the slight incline.

Good boy, I said once we were inside the timber hut and I’d sat on the seats designed for viewing the birds on the river. The seats are as hard and as uncomfortable as I had remembered, but I’m happy to be here although I can hardly believe what had happened in the last few months to change my life so drastically. My thoughts rolled back to the love and kindness of everyone I’d made such a dynamic contact with since the explosion of X9 experiment at the paper mill. I pushed my concern for Forbes Martin out of my mind, He’d been my scientific partner in the project; my whole career for that matter. But the dedication of my nieces, their partners and Ebony the lady who had trained the canine sitting at my feet. I wish Harriet my sister was alive to see her daughters, Pearl and Chiffon, grown women now of 26. My thoughts were interrupted by voices.

There’s someone in there, I heard the female say. Followed by a male voice, It’s just an old blind woman, she won’t be able to see what we do.

I’m neither old nor deaf and certainly intelligent enough to know you are a rude person. Compass home.

As Compass guided me down the timber planks, this time I didn’t hold the rail, hoping my grasp on his rein would get me onto the level ground of the road. I knew I had over-reacted. They were probably excited teenagers without a care in the world. I realised if I want to be treated like everyone else, I’m going to have to overlook thoughtless people, I told myself as my loyal Canine Lantern guided me home. Compass stood in front of my legs. I guessed we are about to cross the road; there must be traffic coming. When Compass indicated it to be safe to move, I heard someone puffing and panting behind me.

Excuse me, panted the female voice. Compass kept walking and didn’t stop until we were obviously off the road. The voice called again, Wait please.

When I stopped and turned around, Compass stood between me and where the sound of the voice was coming. I could feel his alert tension from his body against my legs.

Who are you and what do you want? I shouted.

The female voice stammered, I, my friend was rude to you in the bird hide. I want to apologise.

Thank you, but you are not the one who should apologise.

I know, but I am sorry it happened. I shall talk to him and I promise he won’t speak like that to you or any other disabled person again.

I smiled thinking to myself her to be naïve.

Consider the matter forgotten, I said. She’s walking along side us now.

Is there anything I could do for you to make amends? she asked. I knew it to be risky but I do need a favour.

I’ve just moved in and my nieces packed everything away they thought I might not need. When we reach my house, would you go to the garage and find a folding chair. I’ll tell you where to put it if you find it.

I have to go back to my boyfriend now, but I will do that for you later this afternoon. I’ll watch which house your dog takes you into.

A few hours later, I acknowledged a knock on the front door of my cottage, with calling out, Who’s there?

Um, I’m the teenager who was at the bird hide this morning. My name is Jasmine Peters. You asked me to look for your folding chair in the garage. Her voice smooth like velvet and diction clear.

I opened the door. Thank you for coming back. Please come in. I held the door open until she entered. She stood in the hallway. Come through, I encouraged but she remained standing. What’s the matter? I asked glad Compass was right beside me.

I’m flabbergasted, looking at these paintings on the wall, she said almost breathless. You, you are the artist, Miss Copeland. I nodded. Her reply came in a higher octave. I watched you paint them on the wharf sometimes.

Jasmine Peters, yes, of course. You lived on Hindmarsh Island and I remember one afternoon when you had missed the ferry.

Yes, she’s excited now. And you listened to me read my reader until the ferry returned.

I chuckled as I spoke, You were so upset, reading took your mind off your dilemma.

The atmosphere filled with silence. I waited for a moment then said, Well, Jasmine, perhaps now you will look for that folding chair. Go down the passage, through the back door, you’ll see the shed, it’s unlocked. She didn’t move. It seemed Compass and I spontaneously became anxious.

What happened to you? her voice crackling as though she fought emotion.

My loss of sight? There was an industrial accident, but let’s not dwell. If you would…

Of course, I’m sorry Ms C… she seemed to have trouble getting my name out. I heard her footsteps going down the hallway, followed by Compass’s paws on the parquetry floor.

The door opened and closed. Compass came running back to me. I gave him a reassuring pat on the top of his head. We heard the door open; Compass ran down the passageway.

Where would you like me to put it? I’ve cleaned the cobwebs off and dusted it down.

Can you see a space by this door, so I can collect it on my way out? She explained where she put it and assured me it would not intrude on my pathway. I thanked her and opened the door hoping she would leave, but she just stood there. Is there something else, Jasmine?

No Ms C, once again she shortened my name, whether through laziness or couldn’t remember the whole name, I didn’t really care, I just wanted to get rid of her. Um Miss Copeland forgive me again, but ever since that day you calmed me down on the wharf, I’ve spoken of you, with affection, to my mum calling you Miss C. As I got older, Mum informed me of the politically correct term when one is unsure if the lady is married or not so it became Ms C whenever we spoke of you.

"I’m touched, Jasmine. And as I am still a single lady, I hereby give you permission to continue to refer and address me if I’m lucky enough for you to visit, Ms C."

You know, Ms C, my mum said if ever I found you on the wharf again to tell you to go to her hairdressing salon and she would give you a free style or cut, sort of gratitude thing.

Gosh, Jasmine, that incident was a long time ago. You were seven, how old are you now? When she said sixteen, I told her ten years is too long to claim a reward.

Your hair was so lovely and brown then, it shone in the sun. It seems to have lost that lustre. I’m sure Mum could boost it up a bit.

My nieces hinted I looked a bit drab and needed to spruce myself up a bit, so I might entertain giving the salon where your mum works, a call, but I will pay for the treatment.

Mum, her name is Violet, owns the salon. Ask for her, I shall tell her you’ll phone and she can tell you if you have to pay. I’d better get going now. I am almost grateful about the stuff at the bird hide.

Me too, Jasmine. And thank you for finding and placing the chair. Those seats are so hard at the bird hide; I’ll take it with me each time I go.

I could tell Compass was wagging his tail, due to the breeze it was causing. A couple of hours later, my home line rang. I felt rather relieved it hadn’t been disconnected because I’d been away so long and can’t remember paying the last account. Compass led me to where the noise was coming. I picked up, fumbled, almost dropping the receiver, then spoke into the wrong end, I turned it around and by the time it was right side up I could hear the voice of the caller.

Ms C, Jasmine Peters here. I was glad you had your number listed in the book because Mum said she would very much like to give you that hair-do free.

How sweet, I said, but Jasmine Compass is unfamiliar with where the salon is. We will need to wait until my nieces come and they can orientate him.

I’ve my learner’s permit now and Mum usually takes me on a driving lesson each evening after tea, we could call in and make some sort of arrangements.

Jasmine, you concentrate on getting your driver’s license then come and talk to me about the hair-do. I sensed her disappointment in the tone of her voice. It’s lovely to know I’ve moved into a neighbourhood with such caring people, but for me it’s early days, I need some adjustment time to using only four senses instead of five and I need to bond with my new dog trained as a Canine Lantern. We wished each other a good day and terminated the call.

I spent the next half hour or so sitting on the couch, Compass right by my side. Every now and again, I’d pat him and hear his tail would swoosh across the floor.

Chapter Three

Becoming re-acquainted with Jasmine Peters was a good thing. She has her probation license to drive a car now. Each morning on her way to school she calls in with the daily newspaper and spends three quarters of an hour reading it to me. I’ve become a regular client at her mother, Violet’s salon where Compass is welcome. It’s from Violet’s other clients, who are much older than me, semi-retired at sixty or retired farmers and enjoying a more leisurely life style in town, we get our social invitations, which have been frequent, so much so, my nieces, The Steering Committee, I call them, are unable to catch me home often enough to answer their phone calls they have set me up with a mobile phone, which of course is handy, but just another thing I have to carry; damn them, mm maybe I should be grateful.

Our day begins at sunrise. Compass and I walk to the bird hide. The atmosphere is absolutely delicious at that time of the morning. I can feel the sun melting the dew, smell freshly cut grass and hear the screech and splashes of bird life on the water. I’m usually back home by seven forty-five when Jasmine arrives to read the newspaper. Her audible reading is a delight, equally as good as the newsreaders I listen to on the television. She hardly ever falters and dramatizes the appropriate events and is comical with the funny editorial stories and events. Her enthusiasm never seems to wane. She has never missed a day since she started and that was almost four months ago. However, this morning, I wished she had gone straight to school, but no, I can hear her rattling on the door. Oh, I wish she would go away, I sighed and covered my head under the blankets, but the banging is getting louder and she is screaming out my name. I know if I don’t get up and let her in, she will alert the whole neighbourhood.

Okay, okay, I’m coming, I yelled as I walked to the door, Compass right on my heels. I opened the door. Sorry, Jasmine, I must have over-slept. You’d better take one of the door keys from the hook so you can always let yourself in.

She brushed passed me.

Here’s your newspaper. I heard the thump on the table. I also heard her say, Come Compass, I’ll give you a run outside.

Times like these I’m glad I’m blind because I don’t have to see the nasty glare, I can feel Jasmine is giving me. I went back to bed hoping she will go away quietly after walking Compass, but no such luck.

Okay, she’s obviously standing at my bedroom door, what’s the matter?

I over-slept. I had a huge day yesterday.

I sensed she had move closer to the bed.

You appear as though you haven’t slept at all. And I think you have been crying.

I broke down complexly. With heaving shoulders, I sobbed, Jasmine, please go. You will be late for school. I heard her move a couple of steps away, toward the door, I hoped.

I will go, but first I’m going to phone one of your nieces.

No, please, Jasmine, don’t do that.

I’ll get my mum to come over.

Jasmine, there is no need. Please just go to school. And thanks for taking care of Compass’s needs.

I heard the jingling of her keys, the front door slam and her car engine rev, the swooshing, as she drove through the puddle at the end of the driveway the crunching of gears and roar of the engine. Grateful she had gone, I turned into my pillow and slept but was aroused by the whisper of my name.

Miss Copeland, Henrietta, it’s Jasmine.

I told you to go to school.

I did but it’s now lunch time. I found it hard to concentrate during class so I asked permission to come back here to read you the newspaper.

You sweetheart. I don’t want to hear the news today. But you do deserve an explanation for my behaviour this morning.

I’ll put the kettle on while you get dressed, she said. I entered the kitchen fully dressed and sat at the table.

I’ve scrambled some eggs. Eat them while they are hot, she said as she placed the plate on the table in front of me. I felt like I’d been a naughty child, I didn’t like the atmosphere but I did admire her assertiveness. I could hear Compass lapping from his bowl.

You’re a good scrambled eggs cooker, I said as I finished. Now about this morning.

You don’t have to tell me, Ms C. I’ll just read out some of the headlines and if there’s time some of the letters to the editor from the newspaper.

No, Jasmine, you’ve acted like an adult you deserve to be treated like one. I scratched my head. I don’t quite know where to start.

Mum always says the beginning is a good place.

Full marks to your mum. And yes, Jasmine, your observations were right, I didn’t sleep last night, I cried instead.

Why? her voice full of compassion.

I ran my hand through my messy head of hair.

"I belong to a community group of no specific genre, most clients of your mother’s salon, at least that’s where I made friends with them. We meet each week at Signal Point, have lunch, and talk to the tourists. Some people bring interesting topics to discuss or poems they have written. It’s a mixed group, men and women most of them older than me. Sometimes we go for a cruise on the paddle wheelers, Compass too. Arrangements have been made for us to go to Rocks Landing for their garden festival aboard Ships Ahoy. We’re to paddle up stream then Rocks Landing’s community bus is chartered to ferry us to the festival."

Sounds nice, Jasmine said. I began to cry again. Jasmine encouraged me to keep going. Crying’s good for you, so Mum says.

Sobbing I continued, Yesterday I was diplomatically told Compass will not fit on their community bus. I controlled my emotions. I can’t walk around the gardens without Compass.

No, of course, you can’t. Surely something can be worked out.

I’m sure it could, but Jasmine, not going to the festival isn’t what really upset me.

It’s not, what then?

Completely composed now I said, Compass and I have been accepted into the community magnificently with people like yourself, your mum, the folk at Signal Point, I had almost forgotten my handicap. I know it’s silly, childish even, but it was like getting hit in the face with a dead fish. I wasn’t prepared for it, that’s all.

I sensed Jasmine to be too choked up to speak.

It doesn’t matter Jasmine, to be honest I really didn’t want to go to the festival especially, the joining in is always fun. I’m fine now, you had better get back to school.

Okay, Ms C, if you feel sure you’re okay. I heard her jingling her car keys and Compass’ paws on the floor. I’ll be in at the usual time tomorrow. Can I keep this house key?

Good idea. Off you go now, drive carefully and thanks for caring.

I sat on the couch fondled my loyal four-legged companion. "Your coat feels soft, Compass. I wish I could see you. This stroking is nice bonding. Chad found you when you were just a puppy, he named you Chocolate Fella, but at the training centre where you earned the title Canine Lantern, they gave you a professional name. I’m told your coat is a rich chocolate brown. I began to think of my selfish indulgence over the past twenty-four hours. My actions have punished two of the people, at least one person and one dog, who are trying their hardest to make my life as normal as possible. I picked up the harness. Come Compass, bird hide."

Mid-afternoon takes on a different atmosphere along the riverbanks. The noise and fumes of vehicles disturb the serenity enjoyed earlier in the day, like at sunrise. However, the sound of laughing children and with the scream for oil from the swings and see-saws and the warmth of the sun beaming on my back and rising from the earth throws out different feelings. I heard my own voice echo, so I knew I’d reached the bird hide and it was deserted. Only a slight splashing sound amongst the reeds told me there was little bird activity on the water. As I sat on the hard bench I cursed because I’d forgotten the folding chair.

Not much activity this afternoon, Compass, but at least you have had a walk. Let’s just relax.

I felt so relaxed, I dozed only to be alerted by the sudden movement of Compass pressing his body against my knees, then the sound of heavy footsteps on the boardwalk, stopping at the entrance of the shelter. Someone had blocked the sun beam I had been enjoying. A familiar aroma hit my nostrils. Compass barked three times. I patted him reassuringly.

It’s alright, Compass, anyone who smokes a Monopole Cigar has excellent taste and need not be feared. My most cherished friend smoked them and the wafting fragrance has triggered some wonderful memories.

Henrietta Copeland, I’ve been searching for you for almost a year. His baritone voice, melody to my ears, but Compass’ tense body made me realise he was on danger alert negotiation.

Relax, Compass. The intruder is my friend, Forbes Martin. Good boy, I repeated, keeping my hand on his body until I felt his tension reduce. I said, Compass sit, followed by, good boy.

The only sound I could hear was Forbes drawing on his cigar, which in turn caused Compass to bark, not aggressively, but disapprovingly.

From memory, I said, and by touch, I believe this building is built of pine. One would expect smoking to be prohibited.

It was obvious Forbes carried a portable ashtray, for I heard the clip open and close and the smoke gradually dispel. Compass appeared to relax.

How are you, Forbes? I asked after being unable to bear the silence. There wasn’t even the thump of Compass’ tail.

I’m fine, Henry.

When Forbes made no effort to converse, I said, Dawn and sunset are the best times to enjoy bird life out there in the reeds on the river.

His voice sounded gruff.

I didn’t come to listen to the birds. He paused, I heard him swallow. I could imagine his protruding Adam’s apple working overtime. His voice quivered, Jasmine Peters came into my office this afternoon.

Jasmine went to see you? I interrupted.

"Yes, I own Fleurieu Tours. She complained about a blind lady being forbidden to travel on the River Shuttle bus with her Canine Lantern. I hadn’t imagined the quiver in his voice, it’s chronic now. I came over here to tell her I would use my vehicle to take her and her dog to the festival from the paddle wheeler Ships Ahoy. His words were spluttering, and I sensed him to be angry, as he continued. Never, even in my most bizarre nightmares did I think the blind lady would be you. He fell to his knees and buried his head in my lap and wept. Henry, I am so sorry."

Compass put his front paws onto my lap and with his head tried to nudge this man away. I placed one hand on Compass and my other on Forbes.

It was an accident Forbes. We were both aware of the risks in experimenting with Project X9. I paused conjuring up something else to say. If it wasn’t us, someone else would have done it with the same consequences.

His emotions are out of control now. But Henry to have lost your sight, he sobbed. I eased Compass off me. With my two hands I massaged Forbes heaving shoulders.

What about you, Forbes. I’m sure you didn’t escape unscathed?

He composed himself, sat on the bench next to me. A few burns and a broken leg, but they have healed now.

I stroked Compass on his head, turned to Forbes and said, "So you’re Fleurieu Tours?"

Yeah, his voice soft yet calm, "during my convalescence I thought I would rather look at the wonders of science in the open air rather than through a test tube. Fleurieu Tours was on the market. I had the required finance. Going to work now is like going on a holiday."

Nice, I remarked. There seemed to be no further conversation coming forward so I said, This blind girl and her Canine Lantern keep sharp schedules. It’s now time we went home.

When he didn’t move or reply before I took hold of Compass’ rein I said, Would you like to come with us, Forbes?

As we trotted along the road, we indulged in small talk which is out of character for us two scientists, but under the strained circumstances today it’s the best we could do.

Yes, I agree with you Forbes, it is a lovely spot, of course now the Hindmarsh Island Bridge spans the river to the island, and development is endless. I spent many hours with my palette and brush right here. I even painted the punt – that wooden vessel ferrying cars to and from Hindmarsh Island while I was renting this little hideaway, a few weeks each season just to paint the river scape. My nieces told me the cottage was up for sale so I bought it just before the accident. And before you ask, yes I have kept my unit at North Adelaide.

Compass guided me into another direction. I felt glad we were almost home. Here we are, I said. I’ve just a couple of rules Forbes. Smoking is prohibited both inside and outside on my property. And everything must remain exactly where it is.

Understood.

I put the key in the door and wondered what on earth I would do with him. Other than the Steering Committee, I include Ebony in that and Jasmine, he will be my first guest since my lifestyle has changed. Perhaps I should tell him to call another day. Too late, pretty girl, I think he is already inside.

Removing the harness from Compass I observed him to be quite tense. Good boy, I assured him. I encouraged Forbes to find himself a seat, excusing myself for just one moment.

He coughed when I returned to the room. I decided to tell him of my apprehension. In unison we spoke.

Henry.

Forbes. Our laughter broke the tension. You first, I said. The silent moment was followed by a nervous cough, However do you manage? Without hesitation I replied, The hardest thing is making people around me comfortable. And to be honest Forbes, I’m failing miserably with present company.

We were so close, his voice quivering again.

Real good work mates, I confirmed. Great partners in our field.

Henry, I felt we were more like family.

Mm, I said aloud but thought, We were compatible and passionate with our work projects, but family, I didn’t feel it. Would you like some tea or juice before you leave Forbes?

"No, I must return to the office. But remember Henry, Fleurieu Tours will transport you and Compass to the festival."

Thanks, I guided him to the door, Compass at my side. Before he made his exit, he said, Get someone to give me a call. I pulled my mobile phone from my pocket handed it to him and said, Punch the numbers into the memory under number five please Forbes.

I listened as he punched each digit, I heard him sigh. I shall wait for your call, Henry.

I just nodded in the direction of his voice. I heard him turn the doorknob, the breeze blew in as he opened the screen, again he said, I’ll be waiting for your call. I heard the click as he closed the door.

Compass, remind me to tell Jasmine when she comes in the morning, not to give my whereabouts to people. I tickled him under his chin and added, At least now I know he is okay. Not a day has gone by when I haven’t wondered what happened to him after the accident at the paper mill.

The next morning after Compass and I had returned from our ritual to the bird hide and Jasmine had read the newspaper and gone off to school, I punched the number five on my phone.

May I speak to Forbes Martin? I asked the receptionist. Henrietta Copeland speaking. She told me Forbes was on the other line and invited me to wait or have him return my call. But before I had answered I heard his voice.

Henry, good you called. Are you going to give us the pleasure of taking you and Compass to the festival?

No, Forbes, there will be other festivals in the future, perhaps with friendlier disposition.

He expressed disappointment. You needn’t be sorry, Forbes. I give you full marks for running a company with facilities for the disabled. I listened and replied. No, I don’t want to go into battle over discrimination discrepancies, Forbes. I’ve done my share of banner waving. I chuckled at his comment and said, "No, Canine Lanterns are taught not to bite. It was good to hear Forbes laugh. I laughed too. Forbes, I’m gourmandising at Signal Point this lunch time. Like to join me? Oh yes, I still get hungry on the dot of twelve, but I’m much more flexible these days, especially if I have the opportunity to dine with an enterprising business person."

I heard someone on my front veranda at about midday. Is that you, Forbes? I called.

After he had assured me it was him, I opened the door and immediately annoyed by his greeting.

You should have an intercom installed.

My nieces, Pearl and Chiffon, and the young Jasmine Peters all have keys to let themselves in after they identify themselves by yelling out their name after knocking. Until yesterday they were the only people who knew where I live and the only visitors I have encouraged. I purposely didn’t mention Chad and Alistair the twins’ partners I didn’t want to give too much information away.

Let me install an intercom at your front door, he said.

I knew he was just eager to make things easy for me, but my annoyance was turning to anger. My nieces handle my personal needs. I’ll talk to them about having one installed. I said hoping that would satisfy him. But oh no, he went one step further.

I could organise it, have it up and working within twenty-four hours.

I counted to five under my breath before I answered, So could Pearl or Chiffon. I took hold of Compass’ rein and said, Compass Signal Point.

As we walked along, Forbes’ presence irritated me further when he proudly announced he had booked us a window seat at the Signal Point Café.

I have a permanent out-door table setting for four people. I have made a substantial donation to the council and they built a shelter extending the eating area onto the patio.

Conversation for the rest of the walk to the café was of admiration for Compass and other canines’ who have been trained to assist the vision impaired and various other disadvantaged people.

During the meal several people I knew stopped at our table. I introduced each of them to Forbes, as Fleurieu Tours, rather than an acquaintance. Forbes didn’t seem to mind. The people asked business like questions which he appeared to answer with pride. Time slipped away quickly; when the meal was finished, dishes cleared compliments sent to staff and the topics for conversation waning it seemed the appropriate time to walk back home.

I half-heartedly asked him in when we reached my cottage, but he either recognised my lack of enthusiasm or had business to attend, for he declined promising to phone me later. I think I sounded sincere when I told him I’d look forward to speaking with him.

I spent the rest of the afternoon tracking down the Steering Committee by phone. I finally reached Chiffon who said she would look into intercom hook up and get back to me with the details.

The lunchtime activities with Forbes at Signal Point had stimulated me. I felt unsettled. I paced around the house, using a cane to poke into any unfamiliar corners where I’d stored stuff I’d forgotten about. Nothing much was revealed. I sat in a chair in front of my desk, where I rummaged for pen and paper where I wrote my tormented emotions. I was surprised, as I wrote, how the tension seemed to be released from my body. It had been a good exercise, so good, when Chiffon got back to me with information about the intercom installation, I asked her if she would be able to set me up with a lap top computer. I am a competent typist, perhaps there is a Braille keyboard and programme available somewhere.

By the end of the day arrangements were in place for the installation of the intercom and a barbeque on Sunday when the steering committee will bring the laptop and their partners, Alistair Redfern and Chad Morrow; I have difficulty remembering which guy belongs to which niece. I felt excited. My mind continued expanding the idea, I thought, It might be a good opportunity for the foursome to meet Jasmine; oh no, maybe she would bring that awful boyfriend. No, maybe she has outgrown him, she never mentions his name.