Thailand where we believe he has headed. If you have any way of
contacting him, please let him know that he is HIV-negative.
We apologize deeply for any inconvenience or duress that this
mistake may have caused. Please contact us at the phone number
below if you know of any information about Mr. Rippy.
Sincerely.
Anat Schwartz
Volunteer leader
Ramat Mechasel
Holding the letter to pounding heart, I looked to the ceiling and
wept like an infant.
Unfortunately, that was when Joe, Oscar, Yippee, and Haridas
arrived to check on my status. I tried to check my tears but could not.
They were so happy to see me conscious that their eyes grew misty as
well.
“Pussy,” Yippee said, grinning.
As soon as I was able to speak, they filled me in on the ashram
aftermath.
Oscar explained, “The ashram has been closed down by the
Indian authorities while they launch an investigation. It was a
miracle, but nobody was killed in all the fighting, and what’s left of
the Omniraja’s inner circle—including your friend Madge—are all
being held in prison. So there’s dozens of sannyasis looking for a new
leader, and guess who’s there to fit the bill?”
“No way,” I clicked my tongue, “You’re going to convert them all
into Juddhists.”
Everyone laughed. “No, no,” said Oscar. “I’m through with all
that. I’m a disciple too, now. Your man Vikash is going to help
deprogram the sannyasis and the Juddhists and help them all find
their own way. We’re going up to Vikash’s place in Nepal, far away
from the hustle and bustle. You should come, Jake. It’s going to be
really great.”
“Oh, I don’t know. I think it might be time to hang up my boots
for a while.”
“Oh, that reminds me,” Yippee said, “We brought all your stuff
from the hotel, your boots are in there too.”
“I don’t think I need them anymore,” I replied, “I don’t suppose
there’s any chance you want them?”
BIG AMERICAN BREAKFAST
232
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