Exam marking continued today, even though it was very hot, but it was only 32 on the boat, compared to 38 on the road to Weldoms, where we went to pick up the handles for all the cabinets in the house. We then went to the house and finished the exams, where the temperature downstairs was only in the high 20s. While we were there we also fitted the handles to the cabinets in the 2nd storey Kitchenette, and attached the sign to the post in the Terrasse.

One of the joys of barging is that the towns along the canals have their own cultural programs in which you can indulge. This week was the Festival of the Voice (Festival de la Voix) in Moissac, and Rita was excited because we were going to see an old favourite of hers in Al Jarreau. I knew of him from some of his well-known songs, but having recently been disappointed in Melbourne when we went to see a jazz singer I liked a lot in the 70’s, I was not sure how this concert was going to turn out. I consoled myself by thinking that even if the concert wasn’t up to scratch, then at least the venue would be good, given that it was being held in the famous Cloister. When he was assisted onto the stage at the start with cane in hand and looking much older than I remembered (or the concert posters had shown), I was beginning to have my doubts. But from the moment he threw away the cane and began to sing, all doubts were removed. His voice was still magnificent, covering several octaves, and his stage presence was magnetic. Even though he spoke little French, he held the audience in his hand. All too soon, the concert was finished, but we went home very happy.