Katherine returns, an hour later, with food for the island.
Baked beans, says Katherine, taking them out.
Peanut butter protein balls, crackers, avocado chips, apple chips, banana chips, she continues.
Wonderful, says Gaius.
Bottled water, says Katherine.
Tea, coffee? asks David.
No, says Katherine. But I thought we might all go out to dinner this evening.
Wonderful, says Gaius, again.
Did anyone find my scarf? asks Katherine.
No, says David. I wonder if the lobsters still have it?
They may well have it, says Katherine. If so, I won't see it again.
Unless they turn up on Te Hauturu-o-Toi, says David.
Which is highly unlikely, says Katherine.
When's dinner? asks Arthur. And where are we going?
The Shakespeare Hotel and Brewery, says Katherine. New Zealand's oldest microbrewery. I've already booked it, for 6 pm.
Excellent, says Gaius.
Things are going exceedingly well with Katherine as Permit Holder. She is efficient. Except for losing her scarf. And all the food she has bought is already in sealed containers.
What is she doing now? Calling someone?
Hello? says Katherine. Is that the Island Ranger?
The Island Ranger acknowledges that it is.
My name is Katherine Hume, says Katherine. I hold a permit for a group of four people to visit Te Hauturu-o-Toi tomorrow morning, weather permitting. Will the weather permit, do you think?
(The Island Ranger consults google weather).
Looking good, Katherine. You've booked an authorised charter?
Yes, says Katherine. Auckland Sea Shuttle.
Steve! says the Island Ranger. Good bloke, Steve. Now you do know it's not my responsibility to row you ashore?
Yes, says Katherine. We are all competent rowers.
And you know about the biosecurity restrictions? says the Island Ranger. No Argentinian ants, rainbow skinks, mice or rats?
Naturally, says Katherine. And no invertebrates, cucumbers or firearms.
Great. Check in with me when you arrive tomorrow, says the Island Ranger.
Will do, says Katherine.
That seemed to go well, says Gaius.
Yes, says Katherine. No Argentinian ants. Imagine!
Hum, says Gaius. Did he mention invertebrates?
No, I did, says Katherine.
I heard you, says Gaius. Was that wise? Ants are invertebrates.
Good heavens, says Katherine. Could I have aroused his suspicions?
No, says David. You are both overthinking. And it's nearly time for dinner.
He's right.
They get ready to go.
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