Im a man whos always been full of energy. Even at 65, I manage to travel around, exploring new places and meeting fascinating people. I look back on my younger days with both fondness and a hint of melancholy. In those times, you could take off on holiday wherever you wished. You could go down to the seaside. You might go camping with friends and colleagues. River cruises were within reach. And you could enjoy all these adventures without spending much at all.
But those days are long gone now.
Ive always enjoyed getting to know people. I would meet folk at the beach or at the theatre. Many friendships I formed have lasted for years.
One time, my wife and I were puzzled to receive a strange telegramwe couldn’t figure out who had sent it. Of course, my wife and I hadn’t gone anywhere. Then, at four oclock in the morning, there was a knock at our door. When I opened it, I stood frozen in astonishment. There, on the doorstep stood Sarah, two teenage girls, an elderly lady, and a man, all surrounded by a mountain of luggage. My wife and I were stunned, but we let our uninvited guests inside. Then Sarah turned to me and said:
Why didnt you leave for us? We sent you a telegram! Besides, a taxi isn’t cheap! Sorry, but we had no idea who sent it! Well, I had your address, so here we are. I thought wed just exchange letters, thats all!
Sarah went on to explain that one of the girls had just finished school this year and was planning to attend university, so the rest of the family had come to support her.
Well be staying with you! We cant afford rent, and you live near the city centre!
I was completely taken aback. We werent even relativeswhy should we let them stay with us? Besides, I was expected to feed everyone three times a day. They brought some bits of food but never cooked for themselves. I ended up serving them all.
After three days, I couldnt take it anymore and asked Sarah and her family to move out. I didnt care where they went. A dreadful row broke out. Sarah began smashing crockery and screaming hysterically.
I was appalled at her behaviour. Eventually they left. But on their way out, they managed to pinch my dressing gown, a couple of towels, and even, somehow, my large pot of cabbage. I still dont know how they got off with it. The pot simply vanished!
