Time Traveler
I am back in France, but this time there is no cholera and protestants are not being slaughtered. After taking part in the rescue of John Kennedy, I realize that I am being guided somehow in my travels. I did not mistakenly set the date last time; history changed the digits. I have a small talent in deciphering, a mere hobby, but it has proven to be a useful talent. I did not mean to participate in history, only to watch it, yet I find myself causing it to occur. So what brings me here at this time? I don't remember setting the date. The machine says it is 1884, but I do not know of any significant historical event that took place ... is about to take place ... here at this time.
I look around me. I am aboard a ship docked in Nantes harbor. It is not a large vessel, more like something a wealthy individual would own for personal use, I think maybe a ketch or a yawl. What is going on? A man hails me in French and demands to know how I got aboard. He is partially obscured by the sail so I cannot get a good look at him. I tell him I do not know. He moves toward me and I can now see him clearly. He has a beard and is wearing a black coat. He looks familiar somehow. I'd better pretend I am a friend.
I look around me. I am aboard a ship docked in Nantes harbor. It is not a large vessel, more like something a wealthy individual would own for personal use, I think maybe a ketch or a yawl. What is going on? A man hails me in French and demands to know how I got aboard. He is partially obscured by the sail so I cannot get a good look at him. I tell him I do not know. He moves toward me and I can now see him clearly. He has a beard and is wearing a black coat. He looks familiar somehow. I'd better pretend I am a friend.
