"The library's been restored again, for the guests to use. The private bath is now two pubic washrooms," Harry said. "Apart from utility upgrades, the place still has its old-world charm."
"I'm beginning to understand how determined he was to get away and make a fresh start," Burton said. "Do the same people still own it?"
"Ralph Darby, son of the original buyer, owns it now," Harry said. "Ralph's father told him that Finley gave him the keys and, as he walked away, he said: 'For the first time in my life I feel free.' Any idea what he meant by that?"
Burton was nodding. "Possibly... in his journal, he wrote about being ashamed of who he was, the son of a pirate, who had profited from theft and violence. He wondered if that violent nature was still there, deep inside. And he worried that he could have inherited some of it. He felt like he was carrying a burden that was slowly crushing him."
Glory nodded. "Grandpa Connor said that, before Finn disappeared, he'd lost weight and had dark circles under his eyes. Grandpa was concerned, but Finn said he was just overtired from working long hours."
"He was planning his escape the entire time," Burton said. "Well, he wandered aimlessly for several months, took a freighter to Jamaica, working for his passage, and then worked to improve living conditions in small villages, until his funds ran low."
"Sounds like he wanted to make amends for some of the things his father had done," Harry said.
Burton nodded. "Finally, he started a small export business, buying small pieces of local art, hand-crafted items, jewelry and other things which he exported to exclusive boutiques in foreign cities. Eventually, it became profitable and he was pleased because the profits were earned honestly. That's when he finally felt at peace."
"I'm glad he found peace, settled down and had a family," Miss Pinkerton said.
"Yes, he did. My grandmother, Salome, was Jamaican and they had three children; Connor, who was my father, and twin girls, Moira and Rory. My mother, Bella, is also Jamaican. I'm the oldest and there's also Selina, Jackson, Parker and Simone." He stood up. "It's been a long day. It's time to check out the London Inn. We have lots to talk about, Gloria, so I'll see you tomorrow."
"Do you need a lift?" Harry asked.
"Thank you, but I have a rental outside."
Glory accompanied him to the door and they heard him say, "I'm looking forward to the next few days."
"So am I." She closed the door and returned to the living room.
"I should go too," Harry said. "Bertie will want to hear all this. I'll touch base with you soon, ladies."
********************
Bertie was ready to leave when Harry strode into the office, a satisfied grin on his face. "I picked up supper on my way back. Silas and Joe are coming too."
"But..." her frown turned to a wide smile, "you learned something!"
"The whole story, and it's going to take a while, but you won't want to miss one word."
