During Sarah’s first weeks at Buffalo Springs there were radio calls from Langani, but Piet’s voice was distorted, his sentences punctuated by the crackling of static. Each time he signed off, the last ‘over and out’ made Langani seem very far away. She could not gauge his feelings for her and their relationship felt frustratingly stagnant. Then the letter arrived – a single sheet of paper.

Langani Farm

9 December 1965

Sarah,

I’ve been hoping to drive up and see you, but it doesn’t look possible for the time being. There is so much to do here. All the usual business of the farm, and the last-minute details at the lodge. Finishing is always the hardest part of a building project. Of course, Viktor has been here working, which has made certain things difficult. It’s very tense now between Lars and Hannah. Another reason why it’s not ideal for me to take off from here.

No more incidents on the farm, although there is still bad blood between David and Simon. Childish, heh? Thank God for Kipchoge who is always sensible. Like me!

I loved your letter. It seems your new job is all you hoped for. Maybe you won’t ever want to leave your elephants and come back to Langani. But I hope I can still persuade you, because we’re all looking forward to your being here for Christmas.

I’m waiting impatiently for your return, because I have so much I want to say to you. Things I know you will understand. Things I hope you will want to hear.

So I’m counting the days.

Piet