Crossed Legs Against Penguins

In Monoprix, Baldy has found a pair of fleecy long johns, that he likes.

They cost thirteen euros.

They'll be too hot, says Belle. It's summer.

But they've got pandas on, says Baldy.

THESE are good! says Terence, holding up a pair of Hawaii 32 running shorts, blue with red numerals, and white side stripes.

And good value, says Gaius. Four euros eighty. That's seventy percent off!

No, says Baldy. I want the panda ones.

Try them on, says Arthur. I'll come in with you.

Why? asks Baldy.

To tell you what to do, says Arthur.

Arthur goes with Baldy to the change rooms.

Baldy tries the panda long johns on.

Sure you want these? asks Arthur.

Do I look like a penguin? asks Baldy, doing funny penguin steps.

Yes, says Arthur. Now, run out of the shop, crying, and I'll distract them.

That's stealing, says Baldy.

It won't be stealing says Arthur, because I'll leave them a poem.

Baldy's ethical stance crumbles.

About a penguin? asks Baldy.

If you want, says Arthur.

Baldy runs out of the Monoprix, crying.

Belle sees him go.

Oh dear, says Belle, and runs out after Baldy.

Come on Terence, says Gaius. Something is wrong.

Can I have these? asks Terence. PLEASE! You said they were a bargain.

A shop assistant comes over.

Are you planning to buy these, monsieur?

I suppose so, says Gaius. He pays the four euros eighty, and the shop assistant pops the Hawaii 32s into a Monoprix bag.

Gaius leaves with Terence, who looks happy.

Arthur leaves the change room, and walks up to the counter.

This is for you, says Arthur. It's a poem. You can use it as a selling tool.

The shop assistant reads the poem.

En short et caleçon
les bébés et les enfants
croisent leurs jambes
contre les pingouins.

Arthur Rimbaud.

The shop assistant likes it so much she forgets to enquire about the baby who ran out crying just now, in a pair of panda long johns, which have not been paid for. She shows it to the manager, who, seeing an opportunity, prints up several copies in large lettering.

They suspend the copies in locations above the baby shorts and caleçons.

And sell every sale item before the midday closing.