“...Spring this year turned out to be surprisingly warm. Even here, in the foothills, on the very, very border of Alkmaar, fresh grass was already breaking out from under the ground, buds were blooming on the trees, the air was filled with the intoxicating aroma of blossoming flowers and... What is this? I sucked in more air through my nose. Indeed, the sweet, intoxicating smell of mountain roses was interrupted by the distinct amber of a nearby barnyard. A smile crept onto my face by itself - since it smells like manure, it means it’s not far to go - people have been building barnyards since ancient times within a day’s march from cities...”