Something He Needs to Know

Arthur walked back to the office.

Ageless stared after him. Would Arthur stay?

Your friend will like it here, said a raspy lumpish voice.

It was the thorny devil who spoke.

Why do you say that? asked Ageless.

He's French, shrugged the thorny devil. They all like bowls.

How do you know he's French? persisted Ageless.

He has an air about him, said the thorny devil.

So have at least two other people I know, said Ageless. And they are not French.

Alright then, it's the accent, admitted the thorny devil.

You seem a worldly chap, said Ageless, admiringly. Have you travelled much?

Not at all, said the thorny devil. But we get a lot of tourists through here. One can't help but discern....

Yes, yes, of course, said Ageless. My name is Ageless Lobster, by the way. And you are...?

Moloch, said the thorny devil. Well, I'll leave you to your moulting. Eat as many spangled grunters as you like, while you're here.

Thank you, said Ageless. You are a gentleman.

Not actually, said Moloch, but thanks anyway.

Moloch disappeared under a rock, while Ageless sank under the water.

.....

Arthur went into the office.

I'd like to sign up for the bowling, he said.

Would you indeed, sir? said the manager. Are you by any chance French?  Because if you are there's something you need to know first.