December 14th, 1753 – The Major watched the fire flicker and crackle in front of him.  The dancing, moving shapes reminded him of things that he wished to do, but couldn’t.  Couldn’t because he was stuck here having to listen to this…this politician. He just keeps going on and on, thought the Major, I wish he would just get to the point.

He knew that Jacob was paraphrasing the politician’s ramblings. Jacob Van Braam was an accomplished interpreter and as such was deft at thinning out the unnecessary. “So where exactly is Legardeur de Repentign, your captain interpreter?” the Major said making a rolling motion with his hands, encouraging Jacob’s immediate translation.

“He’s traveling from Presque Isle,” said Van Braam interpreting the politician.  “But we’re confident we’ll be receiving an update shortly, if you could just be patient.”  [more]