Coquin!

Don't worry, Uncle David, said Belle et Bonne. These things happen all the time.

Not to ME! said Le Bon David. Oh this is dreadful!

What's up, David? asked The VeloDrone, coming into the office.

I've sent Susan a link to a porn site, said Le Bon David.

Good for you, said the VeloDrone. But that's not your usual style.

I didn't do it on purpose, said Le Bon David. In fact, I didn't do it at all.

You can't have it both ways, said the Velodrone.

I was hacked, said Le Bon David. And everyone's been sent the link.

I see, said The VeloDrone, grinning. Have you had any replies?

I don't know, said Le Bon David. Have I had any replies, Belle dear?

Yes, there's one from Jean Jaques Rousseau, said Belle et Bonne. Do you want me to read it?

Le Bon David nodded.

She began to read primly: Coquin! I always knew you had it in for me! Thanks to you I'm in the shit with Therese! JJR.

Haha! laughed The VeloDrone. Serves him right. Are there any more?

Professor Freud, said Belle et Bonne. He's written: Dear David! You surprise me! But better out than in!

Goodness! said Le Bon David. Whatever does he mean by that? Better out than in? Doesn't that usually refer to flatulence?

I don't know, said Belle et Bonne. But oh dear, one's just come in from your Baroness friend.

What does it say? groaned Le Bon David.

It's just a smiley face, said Belle et Bonne. That's all.

The VeloDrone roared with laughter.

A smiley face! said Le Bon David. What do you suppose it means? Did she get it or didn't she? Should I reply? I don't know what to say.

I'll reply for you, Uncle David, said Belle et Bonne. Don't you worry about a thing. Now look, here's a nice invitation for you and papa to attend an opening at the Artspace tonight. Our Mob, it's called. There'll be indigenous art, speeches, dancing and refreshments. I think you should go. It'll cheer you up.