Orange Peel Power

How are your notes going? asks Denis.

Unfortunately, says Gaius, there's not much to write down.

It's because there was no trace of the algae, says Denis. We've just wasted our time.

I'm inclined to agree, says Gaius. But we weren't to know the algae wouldn't appear at Point Lowly.

At least we were there when the cuttlefish eggs hatched, says Denis.

Yes, says Gaius. And there were the signs of an evolutionary breakthrough.

You mean about the mapping? asks Denis.

And the underwater botany, says Gaius. But I have little evidence. They gave up too soon.

Nevertheless, they did express an interest, says Denis. Have you written that down?

I have, says Gaius. May I cite you as a witness?

Certainly, says Denis.

And how is your email to Henriette going? asks Gaius.

I followed your advice, says Denis. I wrote one thing about myself and then ...

And then? asks Gaius.

Hit a roadblock, says Denis.

Ask her if she's going to Adelaide for the Tour Down Under, says Gaius.

I hadn't thought of that, says Denis. Do you think she might come?

If she likes to watch elite cycling, says Gaius. You could mention I'm in it.

I'd rather mention I'm in it, says Denis.

Has anyone asked you? asks Gaius.

No they haven't, says Denis.

Why don't you contact Vello, says Gaius. He often has a spot open up at the last minute.

Sounds painful, says Denis.

You know what I mean, says Gaius. He might tee someone up, who then gets a better offer.

Better than a place in Team Philosophe? says Denis.

Hard to believe, I know, says Gaius, but most younger riders like winning.

Good point, says Denis. I'm ambivalent about winning. I'll call Vello.

He is about to when the Stateliner stops to pick someone up.

Terence pops up from the backpack.

Are we there yet?

No, says Gaius. How are doing assembling your horse?

Look! says Terence.

He holds up his work in progress.

Incredible! 

The orange peel has held all the horse parts together.