Finneus Fishbottom Retires (Again)

The Final Act of Finneus Fishbottom was my second library cache. Here's how it worked: The posted coordinates were for the library. Once inside, the cache description directed the seeker to a locked box in plain site of the help desk. Stenciled on the box were a set of coordinates for a dog tag hidden outside. The dog tag had the call number of a hollow book in the reference section (so it couldn't be checked out). The book contained a puzzle and riddle to solve the combination on the box. So finding the cache was easy, getting it open was the challenge.

I had a blast designing the book cover. It's a play on our local reviewer Abe Froman the "Sausage King" from Ferris Bueller's Day Off. I also had some fun with the puzzle. The alphabetic lock was configured to open with a particular four letter word. The puzzle was four handmade alphabet blocks with a different color and letter on each side. Matching the colors yielded six four letter words to unscramble: ring, rare, gilt, coin, loot, and rich. The riddle inside the hollow book read, "Sincerest apologies if you sought knowledge amongst these pages of delicious sausage. But a final clue to a treasure greater than seasoned meats should null displeasure. Six words do hint at a seventh most important to unlock a small box full of enjoyment." Can you guess the word?

Opening the box, Finneus left a final message, "Line your pockets with gold, but truth be told, the real treasures are books - look about and behold." All the swag was gold themed including chocolate gold coins. I think you'll agree we have an awesome library to allow such shenanigans under their roof.