Lost papers make it back to U2

A long-lost briefcase full of notes and lyrics that were intended for the 1981 U2 album “October” has been returned, 23 years after it was stolen at a Portland, Ore., concert.

U2 frontman Bono made the announcement during an appearance before the World Affairs Council of Oregon this week, saying the returned notes were “an act of grace.”

Bono had to rewrite the “October” lyrics in the studio, and band members called it their worst recording experience. Though the record was generally well received, it didn’t earn the praise of the band’s debut album, “Boy,” or third album, “War.”

The briefcase was returned by Cindy Harris, 44, who said she found it in the attic of a rental home in Tacoma, Wash., in 1981. She said she did not know the notes had been stolen until many years later, and then she had no idea how to reach the band.