Beneficial Insects

The show is over.

But no one files out.

They cluster around Costa with questions.

What makes the best compost? How to combat fungal problems? What will eat thrips?

The thrips predator, says Costa. A beneficial insect.

He expounds on the subject of beneficial insects. The aphid parasite, the pirate bug, the praying mantis.

Vello moves in.

Ladies and gentlemen, says Vello. No doubt you'll appreciate that Costa has other commitments...

The ladies and gentlemen reluctantly melt away, because they understand that Costa must have other commitments.

Well now, says Vello, to Arthur. You made an excellent Costa. Well done.

Thanks, says Arthur. I did some research.

That's the ticket, says David. You're a big drawcard.

One more night, says Vello. We must milk it. Sweezus, can you whip up some new fliers?

Sure, says Sweezus. But we might invite trouble if we claim we've got the actual Costa.

Tosh! says Vello.

Sweezus looks at Belle, who mouths DON'T WORRY, NOT GOING TO HAPPEN.

Vello is oblivious.

I'm not happy, says Nobby. If my opinion's worth anything.

What's up? says Elodie. We can't have our curtain upset.

Look at me, says Nobby. All beribboned, when I specified string.

You did, says Belle. I remember.

We only had ribbons, says Celia.

Saint Roley shifts uncomfortably.

What is it? asks Gaius.

We bought the ribbons, says Saint Roley. But we could have bought string.

Yes, says Celia. We could have bought string.

My fault, says Belle. I probably didn't give you enough money.

That's nice of Belle, to say it.

Speaking of money, says Vello. How much did we make tonight, dear?

About five hundred, says Belle. Which is lucky, because that's what WOMAD wants us to pay for this corner.

Ho! We'll see about THAT! says Vello.

I don't think we can argue with them, says Belle.

That's not what I meant, says Vello. Tomorrow night, things will be different!

Different. Again.

Who among us is not groaning inwardly?