An Unusual Encounter
The little old man at the bar appeared as though he was
pushing a hundred. Perched on the stool
with a tall glass of some dark beer in front of him, he looked a bit like a
garden gnome except he didn’t wear a pointed hat. But, the white beard and shaggy white hair
peeking from under the black Fedora perched on his head made him look like a
fictional character from a 50’s era movie – or, a garden gnome out of costume.
Chance Hunter was just passing through town. It had been years since he had been in
Albuquerque, but, here he was again. Old
Town had been calling his name ever since leaving Grants and he needed
something to quench his thirst as well as his appetite. He just wasn’t in the mood for New Mexico
style Mexican food so he ducked into what looked like an Irish Pub. Surely they would have a sandwich or
something to go with a good drink.
Originally, Chance had intended to make it to Amarillo
before stopping for the night, but, a flat tire had altered the plan. It didn’t take long to change it, but,
getting it fixed in Grants took a little longer than expected.
The transition from the bright sunshine of the New Mexico
day into the darkness of the pub caused Chance to pause briefly just inside the
door. It was a typical pub with tables
and booths of some dark wood and various signs clinging dustily to the walls
advertising an eclectic collection of ales and stouts, most of which no longer
existed except in memory. The bar looked
inviting and since there was only one other patron sitting there, it was easy
enough to find a stool.
Chance eyed the little old man with curiosity. The look wasn’t unnoticed. With a twinkle that reflected a deep-felt joy
with life, the old man said, “Sit down youngster and take a load off.”
“I don’t mind if I do,” said Chance.
So began an encounter that would change the life of Chance
Hunter forever.
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