I love this game so much! I played it when it was first released and although it took me a long time I actually finished without ever looking at a hint! There are some tough puzzles, but if you get stuck there are hints and a manual at Cliff Johnson's website.
Manual:
http://www.fools-errand.com/01-the-fools-e...tion-manual.htm
Hints:
http://www.thefoolsgold.com/hints-answers/index.htm
If you like 'The Fool's Errand' you will also like 'At the Carnival' which is available for download at his website.