John was unable to raise anyone at the office and so decided to go in early the next morning. After a restless nights sleep he made his way to the office but found it locked. He checked his watch, almost 9:00 am and no sign of anyone. What sort of bureau were they running out here he thought?
Nothing could have prepared him for the heat and humidity in Hanoi, although he'd cut his teeth on foreign assignments back in the day he was ill prepared for this after being in London for so long. The sweat accumulated in little beads on his forehead and arms, his handkerchief was already moist from wiping his brow and was uncomfortable to say the least.
At five minutes to ten, a middle aged Vietnamese man walked along the corridor toward him. Phuong was not prepared for whomever was waiting outside the office, but just by the look of him observed that he was English perhaps someone sent out from London.
"Good day" said Phuong smiling. John extended his hand, you must be Phuong said John smiling and shaking his hand strongly. Phuong nodded and was surprised when he introduced himself at John. But why had he come out to Hanoi?
After opening the office, Phuong offered John a chair, any chance for a cup of tea ? John asked expectantly. Phuong shook his head but asked John to follow him to the Star. On the short walk to the Star cafe Phuong listened intently as John told him the reason for his visit to Hanoi.
Stopping momentarily Phuong leaned in toward John and whispered to John that he had much to tell him, but to do this they must be outdoors.
John was perplexed...
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