Rule of Thumb

by Rhys Hughes

   “A rule of thumb,” he said.

   “Not more precise than that?” I protested.

   “Let me show you.”

   There was a deep weariness in his voice, but his eyes still sparkled. He led me through the cluttered laboratory, past large jars of body parts, machines that hummed, trays of weird instruments.

   The professor stopped at a white door, unlocked it with a tiny key, pushed it open and ushered me inside.

   On a miniature throne was perched a human thumb.

   It was wearing a crown.

   Amputated fingers bowed to it.

   Just as if they were beckoning someone over.

   Then I understood.

click to read:

Fossilised Stone

by Rhys Hughes