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14 June, Wednesday morning

Now I know what Dad is saying when he says how lucky we are to be born in America. Last night met a guy "John" who has been on the run for 12 months now. His girlfriend had her flat burned down by a jealous ex-boyfriend. He was cleared of the charges because he was an informer of IRA activity. The relationship was over long ago, but she had a child with him. Anyway, when John saw the guy after, he lost it and beat the guy up pretty badly. John thought he killed him, and after felt terrible about it. They guy had to have a metal plate put in his head. John had to give up everything he had (including his girlfriend, car, etc.) to stay out of jail. It was amazing talking to him although at the same time I felt terrible for him. Bought him a burger & a couple beers last night. This morning I'll take him to breakfast (he's sleeping in the same dorm room right now). Who am I do be giving away money, right? Seeing John makes me realize that my money problem in Europe isn't a problem at all compared to him. I showed him pictures. All he could say was how lucky I was and maybe in his next life he could be born an American. He also thought Christine was beautiful. "lovely bird" "she's cracker"

On the train to Dublin, just realized that someone went through my stuff yesterday (John?). Things were rearranged (plane ticket, traveler's checks), but nothing gone - so far. I'm glad I decided to carry my Eurail pass & passport with me.

15 June, Thursday

I'm flying Aer Lingus to Brussels. We'll be there in about 1/2 an hour (1hr 10min flight). We paid $100 (about 70 Pounds) for this round trip flight. In the paper they're discounted rate is 500 Pounds (from 650). Looks like we got a pretty good deal.

Yesterday we walked around Dublin. Had a pretty good time. Visited the Church of Dublin, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Trinity College. Say the book of Kells at Trinity College (4 gospels, 800 AD, very detailed art) . Studens were taking exams. The old library was very impressive. All these ancient books and statue heads of famous philosophers and thinkers. Relaxed in yard of St Patrick's Cathedral. Met some younger kids (around 14) who were very friendly, to say the least. The first thing these girls wanted to do was kiss us. Almost all of them smoked and maybe even drank. Anyway, the were really nice & interesting kids despite their bad habits (their dirty jokes & language - and I though I had a bad mouth). Got a couple pictures.

Slept in the airport - so did quite a few others. It's just accepted One of the "airport people" said that in summer, usually the whole wall is lined with people, particularly Germans. I had a row of cushion seats to myself. I was quite comfortable.

Note: Scan Joe's postcard of the long room in the old library of Trinity College.