"That's right," he nods and smiles encouragingly. "Germany, huh? Ain't been there. I'm from America. It was 1931 last time I was there. People from all kinds of times and places end up here. It's gonna seem weird, but most folks are friendly."

Willie deliberately keeps her pace easy so the girl on foot has less trouble keeping up. It's only a few dozen yards and around a corner before they get to the diner.

"Sorry t'ask," he says to Wendla, "but would you mind holding the door for me? Only it's tricky while I'm on Willie's back."