I also posted this in Historical Fiction (I think although I haven't seen it turn up yet).
I need an object that will be the clue that means a man came that way...
It's 1875. The man is a Spaniard. the object has to last for at least 3 months despite being left outside in a tropical climate. It has to be unique or rare so that it can be linked to the missing man.
the man is from cartagena, about 41, works in some trade.
Know nothing more. Any ideas?
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Saipanwriter
http://saipanwriter.blogspot.com
50,069 / 50,000
Nov 27, 2008 - 23 56
Hmmmm. According to Wikipedia, Cartagena has always been a thriving port, so perhaps it is something that suggess foreign lands, rather than Cartegna itself. Like some delicately wrought bauble that suggested the owner had been to the Americas (particularly perhaps South America, since we're thinking Spaniards) and this sets the detective thinking ... "South America ... must have been someone connected with the sea ... perhaps with Spain ... Cartegna!"
Still can't think about what it would be - I am also in a state of hopeless brain melt - but this gives you a few more options.
50,070 / 50,000
Nov 28, 2008 - 02 09
The two obvious materials that will last for months or years in the weather are gold and glass.
51,986 / 50,000
Nov 28, 2008 - 21 46
Thanks. Both answers are helpful as I try to discover what this object is...
EDIT; Okay. Thanks. The brain has kicked into gear.
After a bit of research (all of 20 minutes), I found what I need. An inscribed, brass "demi pied de Roi"--that's a folding tee square. Brass will be durable enough for my time period, it's nautical, and the inscription will be esoteric and identifying.
Thanks to all who helped.