Gustave and Gaius at the Cabaret

It happens that I have two tickets for a cabaret show tonight, said Gustave Faubert, grandly. Would you like to accompany me, old friend?

Why, err, what is it? asked Pliny, somewhat taken aback by the unexpected invitation.

It is a comical musical presentation by a Miss Gillian Cosgriff,said Gustave. She is said to be very talented and amusing.

Comical and amusing, said Pliny doubtfully. Perhaps it's not quite me.

Of course it's you, roared Gustave. Get dressed. You're coming. Wear something red, he added. Or you'll stick out like a sore thumb.

Pliny borrowed my red scarf, Gustave called a taxi, and the two friends went out into the night.

Soon they were walking along King William Street, towards the Festival Theatre. The sky was black, the city lights sparkled on the dark river. It was cold. Pliny was glad of the red scarf.

Comical singing, he thought to himself. I'm sure I won't like it.

Here we are! said Gustave. How about a drink, Gaius?

Yes thank you, said Pliny, pleased to be called Gaius, which immediately made him feel more debonair.

Two cabaret cabernets, ordered Gustave, at the bar. My friend will pay.

Gaius paid, with no hard feelings. They joined a long queue of people wearing dark clothes with red accessories, and clutching glasses of wine. Soon the queue began to move into the theatre and up onto the stage behind the billowing red velvet curtains. Gustave and Gaius sat down at table 26, in the centre of the rapidly filling room.

Gaius was excited. It was a long time since he had been to a show. Gustave was chatting to a plump lady who had sat down in an empty chair beside him.

Excuse our backs, said a row of three elderly ladies on the far side of the table.

Certainly, said Gaius, taking a large swig of his red wine. The lights dimmed.