Denise >

Charlie has been complaining to me that his 12-month tour of duty was completed a fortnight ago, and it’s high time he was relieved. He really has been getting a bit down-at-heel : the other day I found him lying flat on his back, his work clothes in tatters, and just a few feet away was the remains of a chicken eaten by a raven or perhaps an eagle. One really can’t be expected to do one’s best without being decently clothed!

Charlie. The Big Garden Croft, Isle of Eriskay

William and Jonathan.

This morning, William (see photo … no, him on the left) reported for duty, here at the walled garden.  After lunch, Jonathan (him on the right) took William to the croft to get to know the chickens – before they all went to roost for the night, and to settle in himself. Tonight, Charlie will show him the ropes, then from tomorrow morning, it’ll be just William watching over the poultry.

Charlie will be looking forward to a bit of R&R in the croft store. I’m told that involves screwdrivers, bits of wood and tins of paint. J says that’s Charlie’s idea of R&R : afterwards, he’ll feel like a new man.

Really, J can be very obtuse with his explanations.

My belief is, what Charlie really needs is a bit of retail therapy – at the thrift shop.  I’m sure there’ll be a half-decent boiler suit in there. Perhaps two – it’s not just William who’s in want of a sartorial upgrade.