[Envinyatar]

Derufin talks to Miz Bella

Derufin introduced both himself and Anyopâ, saying he was the Inn’s general handyman and Anyopâ was a guest at present. ‘Though he’s been drafted into working with me this morning,’ Derufin chuckled. ‘Cook had need of firewood for the coming months and my friend here was in the right place at the right time . . . at least as far as I’m concerned.’

‘As far as the puppets and the play,’ he nodded toward where Woody was dipping out soup for his little brother Hanson. ‘You need to speak with their uncle. Gil, the one that brought them to your class. He and his group of lads are planning on putting together some sort of performance. I’m building the stage for it.’

He paused and looked at Miz Bella with a questioning expression. ‘I know you’re new here. So, I expect you don’t know about the Spring Faire that will be held here in a few weeks. I’m thinking that Gil and his friends will want to put their performance on then.’

Derufin gave the woman a nod. ‘We should be going now. There are still a few armfuls of wood to be stacked for the Inn. Talk to Gil when he comes to pick up his nephews.’ He and Anyopâ started back toward the door. ‘Oh, and if you don’t mind, could you ask him to come round and see me. We can talk about how he wants the stage built.’