Читать книгу The Journey: How an obscure Byzantine Saint became our Santa Claus - David Price Williams - Страница 29

“Oh, Chronos, take me with you.” It was Calista’s voice, pleading with Chronos in a cajoling voice. “I know you’re going to leave soon and you know I love you, don’t you? I don’t want the old man; he’s nothing to me. And listen, I can get his gold. I know where he keeps it. We can go far away from here and start a new life together, away from all this.”

The mention of gold seemed to have a galvanizing effect on Chronos. His usually sour attitude changed and he became obviously very interested in Calista’s proposition.

“Listen,” he said quietly, “don’t say such things out loud! Alright, I am going far away if you must know. I’ve got passage on a ship arranged. If you can get the gold, you can come with me, right? The ship’s leaving in two days’ time. Do you think you can do it in time?”

“I’m certain. I know just where he’s hidden it. He doesn’t think anyone knows. But I’ve seen where he puts it. I’ll get it, for sure!”

They made to leave the tablinum and I faded into another room so that they wouldn’t know I was there. I thought for a while, but I knew I had to tell my father. He would be furious at me for interfering, but I didn’t have any other option. So when he came home that evening, I suggested that I knew where he kept his money hidden and maybe others knew too. Did he think that it was such a safe place? As I expected he was not pleased, but I could see he gave the matter some thought. I had no idea

DAVID PRICE WILLIAMS