the car raced down the loose gravel , weaving back and forth as the freshly grated road was meant more for slow-moving tractors than racing cars . he looked down at his tea . he ran his fingers through his hair and put the cap back on . `` i did n't think you 'd be back until later . '' there was a soft thump on the floor , followed by a metallic clatter . he finished his high school education , studied some law , and learned how to play the harmonica . 