Monday, 9th. July

After the tour ended we had a few days to spend in Istanbul. First was the move to new lodgings in the old city, only 3 minutes walk to the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace. A big step down from the Conrad to the Venus but only 20% of the daily rate. The first afternoon we went to Taksin Square and wandered down a long mall to the Galata Tower where we had lunch with Garry and Meg. Then along to an exhibition of works by Michaelangelo , Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael. It wasn't really artworks by them but reproductions; mostly working models of designs made by Leonardo such as: parachute, hang-glider, suspension bridges, cannons, cam-driven hammers, etc. all 400 years ahead of his time. Michaelangelo was represented by e reproduction of the Sistine Chapel frescoes, the dome of St. Peter's and a full scale copy of Michaelangelo's STEWNADO. I recognised him at once Big feet curly hair big hands little wanger.  I thought to myself  THATS MY BOY.......ab:

Tuesday 10th. July

ab) Tuesday we went to the Domabache Palace.  I wanted to see the  Harem  (was looking for work) unfortunately they took one look and I don't know what they thought  but they did not call me for an interview.  So  now I am downhearted/downcast/secondrate/ whatever.  I marched into the next day with my head held high.  I know I could have done that job. I have the WHOLE NECESSARY COMPONENTS.