They followed as he went to the kitchen and opened the back porch door “First, we have to remove some shelves and cut a hole.”
“Why not remove the entire thing, shelves and wall?” Ida suggested.
“You can have someone do that later. I’m not a carpenter.” Shaking his head and grinning, he set to work. It took a little time but when the hole was open, and the trouble lights plugged in, he tested the floor and then went through. The steps looked okay and he went down far enough to look around.Satisfied that he had the answer, he returned to where the women were waiting.
“Refreshments are ready in the dining room,” Ida said. “Alice will show you were to wash your hands.”
When he returned, they were sitting around the table – waiting. Taking the empty seat at the end of the table, he picked up his mug.
“Did you find what you expected?” Bertie asked. He had told her everything on the drive out, and she was just as curious as anyone.
Harry nodded. “The top hinge on the shelf section that opens is loose and the entire section is sagging. When the wind blows into the tunnel, it comes through the gap. Strong gusts come up the steps and move pieces of wallpaper lying on the floor.” He looked at Ida. “I suggest having a carpenter check it out and give you the best repair options – for that and the hole I had to cut.”
“I might remove that wall and restore the porch to its original state,” Ida said.
“That’s your decision,” Harry replied. “There’s three feet of space there and it’s your house.” He caught Bertie’s eye. She nodded and they both stood.
All five ladies stood outside the door, waving as Harry and Bertie drove off.
“Interesting group,” Bertie said. “I wonder what they’ll decide to do with the porch.”
“Don’t forget the root cellar,” Harry added. “I think she’ll restore it all – except the tunnel entrance – and put it to good use.”
Bertie laughed. “I agree. She seems very creative and energetic.”
