Nope. In a previous game, first noticed the pole in edge of river. Finally figured on the tongs because remember seeing them any time during day. Already had Udo's oils, so that wasn't killing the need for the big bottle of fish oil, and not needing any extra.
I'll try starting a new game, and instead of talking to Udo, go directly to Brattle and ask about the pole, then go to smithy area and see if tongs are there.
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Just tried a new game, playing as well - nothing yet actually, and still no tongs. Minor issue, so back to the BOOK. l a t e r
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Started another game and became a brigand. Since the tongs are needed to aid in melting the teeth, they are always at the smith area day after day. Could the game somehow decide that only brigands need the tongs?
I doubt that. Funny how insignificant things get into places where you can't scratch?
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After starting a new tame, first exhaust all dialogues with Udo.
Go east and north to fisherman Brattle and ask about all, including fishing pole.
Back to front gate and see pole float into view. Enter Volksville and talk to everyone
till after the execution. Don't choose a character yet. Go talk to the blacksmith, then
get near horse and in sneak mode. When smith turns to furnace, touch horse to untie,
then touch again to scare it away. Smith runs after horse. Don't get tongs yet. Go
choose your character and do what is necessary. After waking up next morning, go
to the blacksmith shop and tongs will be there. Go use them to get pole. then return
tongs of course.