Chapter 4 - Page 33 - 2000 Acres

“How far is it from that village?”

   “It’s only fifteen miles away, but it’s a small village. Jim, you just have to see it; you won’t be disappointed.”

   “It sounds like what I need,” Jim confessed. “So how much will it cost me?”

   Jackie pulled a land survey document from his back pocket. He laid it on the table and slid it toward Jim. As Jim unfolded it, he could see the price of the land handwritten in the left bottom corner.

   “The price seems reasonable,” Jim said. “Is this in American money?”

   Jackie smiled. “Hmm. I’m sure the owner would take American currency, but I don’t think you want to do it that way.”

   Jim chuckled. He liked Jackie’s personality. “Are we ready to go?” he asked.

   “I am, if you are, Jim.”

   They left tips, Jackie retrieved the survey document and put it in his back pocket with the map, and the two men walked out to the parking lot and got into Jackie’s car.

   A jeep pulled up behind them, blocking them in. A heavyset black man who looked like he didn’t worry too much about personal hygiene got out of the jeep and walked up to Jim’s side of the car. Jim recognized his guide, Fishman.

   Fishman bent over and laid his arms along the opened window. “Good morning, Jim,” he said, “where you headed?”

   Jim hadn’t seen Fishman walking up to the car, so the man’s voice startled him. “Oh, good morning, Fishman. I’m glad you’re here.”