Friday, March 19, 1999 Personal Visits Jeff and Faye spend the day visiting friends in Malta.

A sudden shower in Valletta sends Faye and Jeff into a souvenier shop for cover. A very distinguished-looking gentleman strikes up a conversation with them. He very discreetly inquires about their holiday, both in general and about various details. Of course, they are more than glad to share their experiences. The rain stops, and the gentleman takes his leave. The shopkeeper beckons Faye and Jeff over and says, "You know, he is our Minister of Tourism."

Though today is a national holiday, the Casa Rocca Piccola, is giving one tour at noon. Though a public tour, it fits well with the intimate theme of Jeff and Faye's day. The only grand private home in Valletta open to the public, the tour is led personally by its resident, the Marquis Nicholas de Piro. It is a fascinating peek at a more personal side of Maltese history.

Walking back to the commercial district, Faye and Jeff run into Louisa and Phil, the English couple who shared in the "Gozo Ferry Adventure" of last night. Phil and Louisa graciously treat Jeff and Faye to lunch at Luciano Italian restaurant overlooking St. John Square. The two couples enjoy a leisurly meal discussing families, comparing cultures, and swapping tales of past holidays.

After a short rest at their hotel, Faye and Jeff catch a bus to the square at Paola, where they are to meet their hosts for tea. Donald and Jane arrive in their classic 1967 Morris, and bring them to their home in Tarxien. Faye and Jeff are treated to the best of of Maltese hospitality. Their conversation starts on common ground: Donald and Jane's son, whom Faye and Jeff had met in the United States. The two couples talk on into the evening about children, business, history, customs, philosophy, finances, and even about the weather. Most important, they share much with each other about their faith in God, and both the challenges and the opportunities that Christians face in todays world.

Returning to their hotel, Jeff and Faye run into David Montebello of the British Hotel and chef Joe as they wrap up the evening's business at the hotel restaurant. Jeff and Faye tell about their day of visiting, and the conversation proceeds on to such varied topics as the Hotel business, housing costs, and a comparison of the National Anthems of Malta and the U.S.

Retiring late once again, Jeff and Faye look forward to making the most of their last day in Malta.

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