I did not see him on our most recent visit to Littleton and thought he might have left when the snow and Arctic air arrived. Then, since my return, three days ago, he remained absent despite the mild weather. Finally, he turned up this afternoon.
I was sitting in the sun, enjoying the January warmth when he appeared. Neither of us said a word when he dropped in but it was clear he had come for a drink. After sipping for a while, he was off again, disappearing behind the house.
He visits every winter, always alone, finding what he needs at the farm. Aptly named, this solitaire is as reliable as the season itself.
See also: Return of the Solitaire
