The Takahe Stud

Press, 7 December 1976, Page 16

The Takahe Stud

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RAPHAEL J. MACLOUGHLIN

Having been told by his partner of the struggling Wayne, Andrew Baines brought his vessel as near to the half-drowned men as he could. “Hang on!” Charlie cried. “I’m throwing you a lifebuoy.” Still clutching on to his

Tossed about like a piece of flotsam, the form of Malcolm, face down, could just be seen through the lashing rain. Many thoughts sprang to the mind of Wayne. Would he be the only one left to carry on? Would the fishermen be curious

Elsewhere, a Land-Rover made its way through driving rain over mucky roads. Its occupants were Garth Williams and his assistant manager, Rory O’Donnell. Silence prevailed in the vehicle, each man taken up with

package, Wayne gasped a greatful thanks. Once aboard, Wayne told the fishermen of his partner and they agreed to search for the missing Malcolm. Tossed by

about the contents of his and Malcolm’s package? What answers would he give? “We’ll pull him out with the boat hook.” Charlie’s words cut short any further speculation on the part of Wayne. At last Charlie manager to hook

his own thoughts. At last Garth cleared his throat. “Want to tell me about it?” he asked. “Since you put up bail for me, I wish I could give you a better explanation other than the charge of trafficking drugs.”

mighty seas, the Trident went back and forth searching the watery wastes. “There’s something.” shouted Charlie. Beside him, Wayne held his breath and scanned the seething foam for his partner.

the floating Malcolm. “That’s it, haul him out gently and I’ll get him aboard,” said the helping Andrew. Wayne stood in the background, waiting with bated breath. Was his friend dead or alive ?

“What do you sav about it, Rory?” “I say, I’ve been charged. Garth. That’s not the same as being convicted. Of course, I can’t help what people might think. Now what do you say?”