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// Chapter 2 
// Story: notes for Cranky D. Donkey 
// by Uncle Knot 
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Letter # 2 – 11,569
To: C.D. Donkey			C.C.: PC, BR, Z, FdL, BR, FP, AD, PdF, CotG
From: Sumponeigh Knot Yew

We are impressed with your work; you kept your head in a difficult situation.  Not only did you find the tuba, but also those who took it.  Beware these ponies; Spade and Archer, they have the aura of those who make ponies disappear and you were most fortunate that you have not been spotted.    Your report suggests that they need the tuba to conduct a deal.  Remember your duty is not to recover the tuba, only observe what it is being used for.

You have learned your previous lesson well.  Picking up the discarded shipping manifest from Archer tells us that the deal is dependent on a ship in the harbor of Manehatten.  It was smart of you to find work on the docks to supplement your stipend.  You are demonstrating that my investment in time with you is paying huge dividends.  

Your report also suggests that the deal is not done.  I surmise this from your report as the ‘actors’ (what we shall call Spade & Archer) have not left the stage.  The ship they are waiting for has not arrived.  

It was happenstance that you may have noticed other ‘actors’ also seeking a deal.  The dark and seedy streets and alleys along the docks have become your good friend.  Giving you revenue and a place to hide and listen.  

I have heard of the pony Mr. Green Street; a pony of robust intellect and corpulent stature.  Stay clear of him, he works with a greasy fellow that most certainly has made ponies vanish.  I am capitalizing in your commitment to Matilda when dealing with that other mare.  This unicorn may be the reason for the tuba being so necessary and we must be always be careful of what we least suspect.  Do not be swayed by her flirtatious ways and pay extra attention to the interaction between her and the tuba.

You should purchase a spyglass or mariners glass.   It is an excellent observation tool, as so are these newfangled photo boxes or cameras.  I wonder if the mariner’s glass could be joined to the camera to capture long range prints.  If questioned on this, simply encourage the idea that you have an interest in star or bird watching.

I will join you soon and repay you for some of your expenses; rather I will come to Manehatten and not join you.  It may be to our advantage not to be known to be working together.  With so many actors, the calculation of another buyer should stir the pot and provide you with additional opportunities.  Yes, that is what I will do, become another purchaser interested in the ‘package’ known to be arriving by ship.  

Do not fear for me and I will not fear for you, I have been in rough places before and can handle myself in hazardous situations.  There are some who can attest that my buck is worse than my bite, and a few who can’t.  It was never my intent that this routine assignment would produce such a complex assortment of players.  Do not trust in your youth or strength, instead wait for me and depend on your ears and eyes and maybe your nose.