During the Isle of Mann II, a short story was revealed.  Written earlier in the year, this tale was sent on to Chronicles for publication.  It is published here again for all who may have missed it there.

The Tale of Saint Timothy of Horton,
Patron Saint of Northern Travelers

During travels to the Tor Brant spring ceilidh, we happened upon a shrine of a little known martyr.  Entering the shrine, we queried the monks within for whom the shrine was for.  They replied with the tale herein, as told to us, and written here for all to know.

"Sometime ago, as a wayfaring brew master and baker of some repute, he came to find himself far from home and known lands.  In this wondrously strange and exotic land, far south of here, known as the Barbarian Kingdom of Columbia.  This place was lead by a wise and prosperous King Juan Valdez.

Introduced in the court of the King, he and his party were conveyed upon a local brew, served steaming hot, which possessed a sort of natural healing power.  After drinking the brew, the band of travelers felt their fatigue flow away, allowing for continued travel.

So entranced by the brew, he begged a boon of good King Valdez for a special gift of the beans used to make the fascinating drink.  King Valdez, a great and generous man loaded the wagon s with as much of the beans as they could hold, and promised to send more, if needed.

Sadly, the time came for the party to return to their homes far to the north.
during the trip back to the great northern kingdoms, he happened upon a village poor.  With them, he shared his last sweet bread.  As it was taken to bits, each became two, all a separate flavour from the other.  This happened until all the villagers were satisfied.

As his time on this earth grew short, he knew that his legacy must be passed on to others.  Therefore, he commissioned these monks to sell his worldly possessions.  Further, he ordered them to build camps for disadvantaged children, that they might better themselves from it."

Upon hearing this tale of goodness, the two pilgrims of Tor Brant Stronghold immediately purchased a quantity of the wondrous dark brew to share with their fellows and learned the following Prayer:

Oh! Heavenly Father!  Blessed Be!
Hear this prayer for Saint Timothy
The Patron Saint of Northern Travelers.
We thank him for this drink divine
To wash away last evenings wine.

Amen

Helysoune DuMontfort        (Carol Hayner)
Robert the Blue   (Robert Clarke)

Tor Brant
26 May, 2001