Surprises

Farky is a little dot on the horizon.

Why did you let him go by himself? asks Belle et Bonne.

He'll be fine, says Sweezus. He has four legs, that's two more than me.

Think about it, says Belle et Bonne.

They all think about it, Gaius, Professor Freud, Surfing-With-Whales, Midge and Sweezus.

Four legs, they are thinking, no arms.

....

Farky is thinking about it too.

I'm too far out, thinks Farky. Way too far out. How do I turn round?

He waggles the paddle about in the water. It is difficult to do with four legs that have had knee reconstructions.

A dolphin swims alongside.

Prrrrp, says the dolphin.You look like you're stuffed.

I know it, says Farky. Could you give me a tow?

Toe? says the dolphin. Hello? No!

Farky suspected as much.

.........

Arthur is contemplating his future.

It's the children's mummy's birthday, and a surprise party has been planned.

Mrs Hume and mummy and two of mummy's best friends are being sent to a day spa to get them out of the house for the morning.

I'm looking forward to this, says Mrs Hume. Luxury and pampering. I deserve it.

What do I deserve? says Arthur.

Your shorts are dry, says Mrs Hume. Put them on and help the children's daddy. You and the children may decorate the garden with streamers, and put up the bouncy castle.

Mrs Hume goes off in the car with the ladies.

The ladies are chattering in the car about work.

Mrs Hume hopes her legs are not fuzzy.

Arthur is not happy.

There is a knock on the door. Arthur opens it, expecting another delivery.

But no, it is Bunny, from the Gospel Reformed Church.

Hello, Arthur, says Bunny. Can we talk?