Chapter 6

Richard sat down at the canteen table. He lit up another cigarette. Distance stares from neighbouring tables almost swallowed him. Smoking wasn't allowed in the canteen.

The rule came into effect early last year, drafted by the governer after reports of the harmful effects of smoking came out. The governer was a health-nut.

It was stringently enforced but like all rules, there those like Richard who stood above it.

As the liason officer between the colonial government and the locals, he reported directly to the governer. He was beneath one man but above thousands.

Richard was also the adopted son of the previous governer. With a privileged position and a priviliged past, Richard was untouchable. Sometimes, even the governer had to give in to him.

"Richard! Good day!"

It was the governer. He was medium built and had a full head of barely existent hair. He was a good decade or two older than Richard, with a good greying beard to show for it. He frowned slightly at the sight of Richard's cigarette.

"How are you this fine afternoon?"

The governer was shaking Richards hand and patting his shoulder. Almost like a broher would. But behind his eyes, his displeasure was not very well hidden. He had no intention of being Richard's brother.

"Saintly."

Richard replied through a forced smile. Though wide and full of teeth, it did not extend past the boundaries of his lips.

Richard knew the governer had no intention or being his brother.

"So, how did the meeting with that local fellow go?"

"Boring."

The governer chuckled. Richard squeezed out a few deliberate laughs.

After work, the conversation went on to family. With both men feigning interest and inserting well placed laughs between sentences. It looked almost comical.