“It’s not yet seven,” he said. “Won’t you stay for coffee?” “We’d love to,” the woman said apologetically, “but we don’t leave our houses after dark if we can avoid it.” I was immediately intrigued. “Do the Folk trouble you after dark?” She gave me a weary look, but there was warmth in it still. “I suppose that’s one way to put it.” “And how long has this been happening?” “How long?” she repeated. “It has never been otherwise, Professor. Now, mind you lock up tight, and don’t forget to leave a little food on the doorstep. They’ve a particular fondness for cheese and cooked vegetables.
