Varun, Muthu's friend and class mate, was moving out of Yercaud. They were heading North since Varun's father had got a transfer.
Muthu and his two chums had initially been a little upset that Varun was no longergoing to be around. Varun wondered whether they would miss the yummy Punjabi food especially his mother's wonderful parathas -more than they missed him. But he didn't dare ask them lest his doubt be confirmed.
Soon after, during a visit to the market,Jones overheard Varun's father speaking overthe phone "....haan yaar, we drug peddlers have no choice. We have to keep moving from city to city..."He quickly reported thisto Bala and Muthu.
The boys were very disturbed by this news. They did not know if they should go to the police or confront Varun's father.Finally, they went to Father Justin, the school principal, and asked him for his opinion.
Father Justin took a little time to grasp what had transpired. He asked them, "Do you boys know Varun's father's profession? He is a pharmasales man.
Traditionally called medical representative.He would have humorously referred to himself as a drug peddler! But I admire your social consciousness - though it was a little misplaced..."After they had left his room, suitably deflated yet relieved, Father Justin exploded with laughter.
Our trio had never moved towns or even houses. They were fascinated by the whole process and were there to'help' Varun's household wrap up.
