Some months back Biff’s father went to India to legally open up some gold mines that had been absorbed by the India Republic. The setting for same was in exotic and mystical segments of India, with much action to be in and around the vicinity of the Himalayas. At first it was more of a sight-seeing tour than adventure with Biff accompanied by two friends from earlier times … Kamuka, met at the headwaters of the Amazon River in Brazil, and Likake (“Lee”) Mahenili of Hawaii. They headed out by sea and still had one more night to spend on shipboard as they reached Calcutta a day ahead of schedule. That city was part of what had once been the British Empire.

It was sunset along the Calcutta waterfront. Reflection of the vivid tropical sky turned the murky water of the Hooghly River into a rippling rainbow. The river was alive with a variety of craft, including native sailboats, side-wheel steamers, as well as sturdy tugs, launches, and lighters that served the ocean-going ships moored in midstream along the strand. An innocent trip personified, but would it stay that way? They didn’t know yet, nor do we, so listening now is the best way to find out.

Originally published in 1962.