At Basham's Beach

Gaius and Victor were at Basham's Beach near Middleton, spotting whales. They had just seen two Southern Right Whales two hundred metres out from the shore.

Look at them, said Victor. They're loafing.

Loafing? said Gaius. How do you know?

That's what we call it, said Victor, when whales don't do anything.

I see you know a lot about whales, said Gaius.

I'm sure you do too, being a famous natural historian, said Victor.

Indeed, said Gaius. They can grow up to three hundred acres in size, and they take great delight in breeding.

Do they now? said Victor. I didn't know that.

Just then The VeloDrone, Le Bon David, Sweezus and Belle et Bonne rode up behind them and stopped.

Hi there! said The VeloDrone. We've arrived at last!

Hello Vello! said Gaius. Hello David, Sweezus, Belle et Bonne. This is Victor the policeman and well known whale spotter.

Oh I wouldn't say that, said Victor modestly. But look out there. We've just spotted two whales.

Oh look Sweezie! said Belle et Bonne. Whales! Aren't they gorgeous!

Yeah, said Sweezus. Whales are cool.

We're all very glad to hear that, said Le Bon David.

We are? said The VeloDrone. Why?

Remembering what he thinks about BIRDS, said Le Bon David. And penguins in particular, he added meaningfully.

Sweezus began to whistle tunelessly, and gazed out to sea.

What's this about Sweezus and penguins? asked Gaius.

Nothing, said Belle et Bonne.

Le Bon David frowned at her.

I think we should tell him, he said.