Day 138 - Good News

(Ursula) Maybe it was a late birthday present for Heinz.

Transit police chief Zimmerman arrived at the station to talk to us. He explained the normal trial process, which could sometimes take up to 30 days.

However, an eyewitness from Caracarai had come forward to corroborate our statement about the accident. Therefore, it was clear that we were not at fault and the case against us would be dropped if we were willing to share a portion of the hospital cost with the boy's parents.

Wow, a heavy load fell off our chests, and we thanked Chief Zimmerman for this excellent news and his efforts on our behalf.

Although his job was done, he helped us negotiate a settlement with the boy's parents and the hospital. We agreed to pay the equivalent of $53 cash to the boy's parents.

And with that, we could leave, but we needed to get the car keys, passports, and transit permits. The chief of police (we called him Schnauz because he always snapped at everyone) intentionally made things difficult for us. At first, he couldn't find our car keys and passports. Then he announced that he needed a few days to get the transit permits. What? Did they run out of paper again?

Anyway, we had things to do before leaving town. Joe Butler picked us up and drove us to a Veterinarian to get a shot for Büsi, who was still not well. On the way back, we stopped at the port and made a reservation for a boat, "Rudolfo," that would take us from Caracarai to Manaus. Then we stopped by the butcher and purchased steaks for dinner.

After dinner, we were invited to Joe and Diane for a cold drink and Bible study. I often thought religion was boring, but the discussions about the Christian Faith were very interesting. I knew that both of them were well-educated and good people, which made it easier for me to understand their beliefs and respect their opinions.

They gave us another Bible upon leaving, and their friend Ron handed us a bunch of ripe bananas from the jungle. We were so grateful to the Butlers for everything they had done for us. They never told us, but in hindsight, it is possible that they worked on our behalf through local church connections.

Stats: Miles 0, Expenses $20.30Read more