‘I would like to work in the safari business,’ he said. ‘I have seen the tourists in Nyeri. Once I have been with the laundry truck to Treetops, and I have heard about the National Parks from the safari drivers who stop in the town.’

‘We’re not running safaris from the farm,’ Piet said. ‘We’re starting a small lodge for about ten people. It’s not open yet, and it will take time before we have regular guests. You would not be travelling anywhere if you worked at Langani.’

‘I understand, sir. But I would be happy to learn to take care of the wazungu visitors, and to tell them about my country.’ He smiled, a little hesitantly. ‘I could do fine work here.’

‘How did you come to be in Kagumo?’ Piet asked. ‘My sister says you were not from that district.’

‘I was taken there by a relative. My parents were dead and I was very small and sick. My family was too poor to keep me, and they thought that the fathers would give me food and clothes and medicine, and teach me to be clever. Then I would be able to get work and help my family. But after I was left at Kagumo, I did not see any of my relatives again. I have become strong, and I have learned many useful things, and I am ready to serve you as my family.’

Simon stopped. It had been a long speech, delivered in clear English. Piet could see sweat on his forehead from the effort of making it. He found himself admiring the boy’s courage, and his honesty. He did not want to be considered just another orphan, raised by charity. This lad has an independent streak, Piet thought. He could turn out to be a valuable worker.

‘Wait outside,’ he said to the young man. He closed the door and looked at Lars.

‘Good, heh? Plenty of nguvu, as Hannah said. I think we should give him a try.’

‘He seems bright enough, ja. But you don’t know anything about him, except for that piece of paper. You’d better call this priest first, and check him out. How do you know he hasn’t made off with someone else’s reference?’

‘They all have to carry a kipandi, Lars, the same as those identity cards you have in Europe. It wouldn’t be worth his while trying to pass off a letter belonging to someone else. I’m going to take him on, at a very small wage. Give him a chance. What’s there to lose?’