Duncan heated up some food for Adeline in a few minutes, complete with heated rice.  He also took a little time to demonstrate the dangers of the microwave with a small bobby pin.  It sparked as soon as he turned the microwave on.  “And that is a small piece of metal.  Heat up something in a pie tin and you’d have a mess.  Microwave radiation is really hard on electronics.”  He shrugged.  “Just wanted you to see.  If you want to heat anything up, use the pyrex or plastic …” He stopped.  “Yeah, you would have heard of plastic - not more advanced forms - but polyethylene such as that used in records, certainly.”  He showed a tupperware type bowl.  “Some types of plastic don’t do well in a microwave though.  Their melting point is too low.  So stick with pyrex for now.  If you want to heat a potato, poke holes in it or pressure will build up inside until it explodes.  To cook vegetables, add a teaspoon or two of water.  Microwaves heat food by affecting the water that exists in it.  That’s about as simple an explanation as I can manage without having to teach you Chemistry.  I’ll show you some tricks for cooking a variety of foods.  I use it a lot for snacks.  But to be honest, I prefer making stews and soups.”

Duncan set the food in front of Adeline, then asked to see her feet.  “You should have said something.  I’ll get something to soak your feet in to prevent infection.  Then I’ll measure you for shoes.

He stepped out and returned shortly with a rectangular tub about 3 feet by 2 feet by 1 foot.  It was filled to the 6 inch mark with mildly hot water.  He also had bottle of powder that he sprinkled into the water that fizzed as he did so.  “Go ahead.  Not the best remedy, but it will help disinfect and clean.  Then we can treat any blisters and cuts.  I have peroxide.  Sorry, but I never expected company here.  I came to this island to get away from people.”

“So .. what year is it now?  1921?  Yes … right.  Well, I you may as well make yourself useful and tell me what has been going on around the world.  You strike me as someone who didn’t hide in her home, more … adventurous.  The way you handled yourself around those raptors was pretty impressive all things considered. We can play 20 Questions if you like.  I am sure you have questions for me.  I am afraid there isn’t much else to do on the island - especially until we get you some shoes.”

Another thought that began to dawn on him was that he didn’t even have a guest room.