Intelligence Or Lucky Guesses

 Saint Roley? says Roo-kai.

Yes, Saint Roley, says Gaius. Tell us his story.

There is no such saint, says Roo-kai.

Wrong! says Terence.

But true, says Arthur. You named him Saint Roley.

Yes, I did, says Terence. So Saint Roley is such a saint, and Roo-kai is wrong.

Pfaa! says Roo-kai. Not a real one.

He's looking more alert now, says Gaius.

What happened to Saint Roley?

Floated away, says Roo-kai.

Wrong! says Terence. That was his...

Wait! says Gaius. Let's see if Roo-kai remembers.

His brother, says Roo-kai.

This is promising, says Gaius.

Or a lucky guess, says Arthur.

True, says Roo-kai. I did guess it.

He guessed it! says Terence.

Which suggests intelligence, says Gaius.

Thank you, says Roo-kai. 

Shall we continue? asks Gaius. 

Ask me another question, says Roo-kai.

Where to? asks Terence.

What? says Roo-kai.

Where did he float to? asks Terence.

No one knows, to this day, says Roo-kai.

I think we can safely say this bird knows the story, says Gaius.

What if the fake Roo-kai knows the story? says Terence.

A possibility, says Gaius.

Ask him about Buster, says Terence.

I know nothing about any Buster, says Gaius.

Which doesn't mean you're not the real Gaius, says Roo-kai.

Ha ha! Good one! laughs Terence.

What do you know about Buster? asks Gaius.

Buster... Buster.... says Roo-kai.

That's not enough, says Terence.

Wait, says Roo-kai. It's coming back now. 

Did he run into a tree on purpose? asks Terence. And did I fall off? And then did Madame Ponty say I couldn't have a certificate? And then did you help me steal one?

Let me guess, says Roo-kai.

It's him, says Gaius. His sense of humour is back.

How do you know? asks Terence.

Not A Not Very Good Robot

Gaius's house. Arthur knocks on the front door.

Arthur! says Gaius. Good to see you! Come in!

Can't stay long, says Arthur. I'm just dropping off Terence. And Roo-kai. 

NOT! says Terence.

What's this not? asks Gaius, as they walk down the passage to the kitchen.

It's not Roo-kai, says Terence. You can ask him some questions.

Belle thinks he's not yet recovered, says Arthur. 

From what? asks Gaius. 

No one knows, says Arthur. He left some of his feathers in flat packs and he wasn't in the bird box he was supposed to have come in. Then he turned up in the security guard's office.

Nearly dead, says Terence.

He seems all right to me, says Gaius.

He might be a robot, says Terence.  A not very good one.

Let's have a look at him, says Gaius.

He lifts fake (or robot) (or not-yet-recovered) Roo-kai onto his kitchen table.

Roo-kai looks up at the ceiling. Has he been here before? Who is poking at him?

Vinegar, says Gaius. It will be good for what ails him.

Even if he's a robot? asks Terence.

We'll soon know, says Gaius. A robot would not swallow vinegar.

Me either, says Terence

I always keep some in the pantry, says Gaius. Will you please fetch it, Arthur?

Arthur goes into the pantry. He locates the vinegar. And a chocolate bar in a basket on top of a folder, which Gaius has probably forgotten.

He shoves the chocolate bar into his pocket, and brings out the vinegar.

A wonderful substance, vinegar, says Gaius. Good for preventing nausea and hiccups, sneezes and shrinkage of the gums. It will even cure snake bites.

Anything else? asks Arthur.

Cleaning windows and floors, says Gaius. And of course, very tasty on fish when you run out of lemons,

Which is why there's not much in the bottle, says Arthur.

Indeed. In the bottle, there isn't much left.

I'll be sparing, says Gaius.

He tips some vinegar onto his finger and rubs it back and forth on the beak of his patient.

Roo-kai (fake or robot or not-yet-recovered) blinks rapidly, and breathes hard.

Excellent! says Gaius. Now for some pertinent questions. First, can you tell us what happened to Saint Roley?

He didn't... begins Terence.

Hush, allow him to answer, says Gaius.

Fake Or Not-Yet

Belle wheels her bike out of the airport.

Something might be wrong with Roo-kai, says Sweezus.

He'll come good, says Belle. He was trying to keep us all out of trouble.

Like how? asks Sweezus.

Pretending to be a toy bird, says Belle. At least that's what I ..... Why? What's the matter?

Terence reckons Roo-kai's lost his smartness, says Sweezus.

Worse! says Terence. This parrot's not him!

Sure looks like him, says Sweezus.

Ask him some questions, says Arthur.

Good thinking, bro, says Sweezus. Terence, you ask him.

What? asks Terence.

Something Roo-kai will know, but if he isn't Roo-kai, he won't know, says Sweezus. 

That's a really good question, says Terence.

That isn't a question, says Sweezus. That's a suggestion.

Okay, says Terence. Roo-kai, what is it you know if you're you, but if you're not you, you don't know?

 I don't know, says Roo-kai.

That means he isn't Roo-kai! says Terence.

It might mean he hasn't recovered from his ordeal, says Belle. 

Yeah, says Sweezus. Whatever his ordeal was.

Okay, says Belle ? I'm heading home for a nap. Can you guys take Terence and Roo-kai?

You mean Terence and his fake parrot, says Terence.

I've gotta get back to work, says Sweezus. Arthur'll take them.

Sure, says Arthur. I'll take them to Gaius. He'll have a look at Roo-kai.

Yay! says Terence. Gaius will know that I'm right and it isn't Roo-kai.

Gaius? Who's Gaius? wonders fake (or not-yet-recovered) Roo-kai.

Arthur tucks Terence under one arm and balances the skateboard on his bike seat.

What about me? asks fake (or not-yet-recovered) Roo-kai.

You can fly, says Arthur.

Can I? asks fake (or not-yet) Roo-kai.

All right, says Arthur. Change of travel arrangements.

He tucks the skateboard under his arm and sets Terence on his bike seat.

Don't fall off, says Arthur. I can't save you.

I've got the gift of balance, says Terence. It's new.

Good for you, says Arthur. Roo-kai, you can sit on the end of the skateboard.

What's that? asks fake (or not-yet) Roo-kai.

This is the skateboard, says Arthur, indicating the skateboard.

He doesn't know ANYTHING! says Terence

No, what's that? says fake (or not-yet) Roo-kai, indicating the toucan.

A toucan, says Arthur.

Belle and Sweezus have already headed off towards the city.

Arthur sets off with his difficult companions.

What Were You Being?

Is this your bird? asks the security guard.

It was alive when I sent it, says Belle.

You might want to think about that, says the security guard. 

Roo-kai-makes a slight movement.

Perhaps it's a toy bird, says the security guard.

Oh. Perhaps it is, says Belle. In which case, may I take it?

Certainly, says the security guard. And here is its medal.

Thank you, says Belle, accepting the medal, and picking up Roo-kai.

Roo-kai remains stiff in her hands.

Sweezus, Arthur and Terence are waiting.

Why's he all stiff? asks Sweezus.  

Toy birds are usually stiff, says Belle. 

Roo-kai! cries Terence. Has he died?

No, says Belle. But let's get going. 

What about your bike? asks Sweezus.

Damn! I'd better put it together, says Belle. Here, you take Roo-kai.

Sweezus takes Roo-kai from Belle and follows Arthur to the exit.

Terence skates behind them on his new skateboard.

Can I have Roo-kai? asks Terence, when they are safely outside the airport.

Here, says Sweezus. 

He gives Terence Roo-kai.

What were you doing? asks Terence.

Being, says Roo-kai.

Okay what were you being? asks Terence.

A toy bird, says Roo-kai. 

If you were a toy, says Terence, you could have come with me in the cabin.

I know, says Roo-kai.

And why were your feathers in the flat pack? asks Terence. We thought you'd be bald.

I'm not bald, says Roo-kai.

Both flat packs had feathers, says Terence. 

Beats me, says Roo-kai.

You've lost your smartness, says Terence.

Sorry, says Roo-kai.

Terence is worried now. The real Roo-kai would have explained the two lots of feathers and not been sorry for losing his smartness, because he wouldn't have lost it.

This is not the real Roo-kai! 

 

Stiff Orange Feet

Belle pulls the bird box from the baggage carousel.

Roo-kai! says Terence.

He's not in it, says Belle.

But these are his feathers, says Arthur.

Not helpful, Arthur, says Belle.

He's been kidnapped! says Terence.

He might be in the other flat pack, says Sweezus.

Belle's flat pack looms into view. Sweezus grabs it.

Belle opens it up.

Her bike, but no feathers.

That's a good thing, says Belle. 

Why? asks Terence. 

Think about it, little buddy, says Sweezus.

I am thinking about it, says Terence. If we find enough feathers....

It means he'd be bald, says Arthur.

A security guard appears from behind them.

Lost something? 

Our parrot, says Belle. Actually, an oystercatcher.

A bald one, says Terence.

Was it French? asks the security guard. Or Australian?

That's classified information, says Belle.

Oh is it? says the security guard. I assume you have papers.

We don't even have the parrot, says Terence.

What about these feathers? asks the security guard.

They're not him, says Terence.  Like when my sidecurls broke off. and it made me look older.

What's that got to do with it? asks the security guard.

He might look older, says Terence.

Older than what?, says the security guard. Do you have a photo?

Yes, says Belle. I've got this one, with him and the frogs.

She shows him a photo which was taken in Le Havre.

Is that Le Havre? asks the security guard.

Yes, says Belle. 

The guard looks at the bird in the photo.

Did this bird by any chance have a medal from the French Goverment? asks the security guard.

Yes! says Terence. 

Oh, right, says the security guard. Come to the office. We do have a bird that has a French medal and looks older than this one. 

That'll be him, says Belle. Wait here, guys.

She goes off with the security guard to pick up Roo-kai.

She follows the guard into the office.

On the desk lies Roo-kai, his stiff orange feet pointing towards the fan on the ceiling.

Skateboard Scratches

You can jump things on skateboards. 

But not baggage carousels.

Hands reach out to stop Terence.

That's dangerous, kid! says a man who has just missed his back pack.

Shit! says the man, darting sideways.

Arhur has picked up Terence's skateboard.

Is it broken? asks Terence.

A bit roughed up at the front. says Arthur,

Wah! wails Terence.

That's a good thing, says Arthur.

Terence picks up his skateboard. Runs a finger over the front. A scrape is a good thing.

Did you see me not lose my balance? asks Terence.

But Arthur has seen a couple of flat packs with Belle's name on. 

Belle-et-Bonne d'Arouet.

He grabs the first one off the carousel, the other one continues to circle.

He steps back and rips open the flat pack.

It's his bike! And several black feathers.

Belle and Sweezus have arrived at the baggage carousel, having walked there more slowly, chatting.

How's work?

The usual head-fuck.

O no! Why?

Vello and Pierre-Louis, says Sweezus.

Not getting on?

Like they're old buddies, says Sweezus. Going out. Philosophising. Riding bikes.

So what's wrong with that?

I have to do everything, says Sweezus. Graphics. Text. Interviews. Accounts. Buy all the snacks

Poor Sweezie, says Belle. At least I'm back now.

Near the baggage carousel, Arthur is re-assembling his bike

I see you found yours, says Belle.

Yes, says Arthur. What are those feathers?

Crikey! says Belle. Roo-kai! Was he in the flat pack?

No, says Arthur. Was he meant to be?

No, says Belle. He was meant to be in a bird box.

A bird box trundles by.

But the bird box is empty. 

Blue Swirl Wheels

Boxing Day. Adelaide airport. A hot day.

Sweezus and Arthur are waiting at International Arrivals.

Sweezus is holding a skateboard-shaped parcel.

There they are, says Arthur.

Terence runs forward and wraps his cement arms round Sweezus's knees.

Hey, little buddy! says Sweezus. You look different.

I lost my side curls, says Terence. 

Makes you look older, says Sweezus. 

I know, says Terence. And I can ride a pony. And I don't even fall off.

And that was before he was given the gift of balance, says Belle.

Cool, says Sweezus.

The only trouble is, says Terence, I might be getting lighter.

I'm sure you're not getting lighter, says Belle. 

Why does he think that? asks Sweezus.

Some kid on the plane told him he only had the gift of balance because he'd got lighter, says Belle.

No way, says Sweezus. I'd prove it by lifting him, if I wasn't holding this parcel.

Give it to Arthur, says Belle.

Can't he just open it? says Arthur. And did you remember my bike?

Yes, says Belle. My bike and your bike should be on the baggage carousel shortly.

I'll head over there, says Arthur. 

Can I open my present? asks Terence.

You sure can, says Belle.

Terence rips off the paper. It's a skateboard.

A super awesome one. With blue swirl wheels, a toucan, a dolphin, a turtle, and palm trees.

More turtles underneath.

Wow! says Belle. That's a good one.

Gold Coast Majestic, says Sweezus. Real Canadian maple. 

How much? asks Belle.

Terence doesn't wait to hear the answer. He is off on his skateboard.

Zoom! Terence cuts through the crowd of people heading towards the baggage carousel.

He is looking for Arthur.

Hey! Arthur! See me!

He zooms around Arthur, narrowly missing the toes of the person beside him. 

The baggage carousel is quite low. There are items on it

But....

Can't you jump things on skateboards?

Be So Sweet

Sorry to be leaving so early, says Belle. I have so much to do.

We are always up early, says Saint Méen.

Goodbye then, and thank you for everything, says Belle.

Every potato, says Terence.

And the loan of the beanie, says Roo-kai.

Two beanies, says Saint Maclou. 

Sorry one got eaten, says Roo-kai.

We are planning to follow it up, says Saint Méen. We suspect foul play on the part of Madame Ponty.

Which part? asks Terence.

Never mind, says Belle. At least you got your certificate from Madame Ponty.

Where is it? asks Terence.

O no! says Belle. Have you lost it already?

No, says Roo-kai. He hasn't. 

How do you know? asks Terence.

B, says Roo-kai. Remember?

My Christmas list! says Terence. He runs back inside. His Christmas list lies on the table.

Phew! says Terence. 

He runs back outside.

You wrote your list on the back of the certificate, says Belle. That was sensible. But perhaps I'll look after it now.

Okay, says Terence.

What's the B for? asks Belle.

A skateboard, says Terence.

Risky, says Saint Méen.

He looks at Saint Maclou, who nods briefly.

We hereby give you the gift of balance, says Saint Méen.

How lovely, says Belle. Terence, do you realise B is for balance?

What's the use of that? asks Terence.

You'll see when you get your skateboard, says Belle. Assuming you get it. Now we must go.

She lifts Terence into her panier velo, and gets on her bike.

Au revoir, mes amis!

She arrives at the train station in good time for her trip to Paris.

On the train she calls the Créperie Bretonne, and asks to speak to the waiter who wrote the Montmartre poem.

Does he have Arthur's bike?

He certainly does

She arranges to meet him outside the créperie, at six o'clock. And would he be so sweet as to take delivery of two bicycle flat packs, which she has ordered?

Bien sur, he supposes he would be

She texts Sweezus and asks him to order a skateboard.

She looks around for Terence, who is half way up the carriage showing the other passengers his great sense of balance.

All going well, she and Terence and Roo-kai will be back in Adelaide the day after Christmas.

  

List Of B

We'd better be going, says Saint Maclou.

Yes, says Belle. Terence and I are off to Paris in the morning.

Yay! says Terence. 

Bon voyage, says Madame Ponty. 

Thank you for the fish stew, says Saint Méen. And thank you for returning our beanie.

Thank you for sharing your baked potatoes, says Madame Ponty.

Indeed, says Saint Méen. We find potatoes are always a welcome addition.

Not at your house, says Terence.

Terence! says Belle.

They ONLY eat potatoes, says Terence.

True, says Saint Méen.

Perhaps you'd care to join me and Buster at Christmas, says Madame Ponty. I'll be cooking a plant-based turkey breast with all the trimmings.

The saints look alarmed,

Thank you for the offer, says Saint Méen, but, on Christmas day, we saints may be otherwise...

When's Christmas? says Terence.

Soon, says Belle.

Do I get a present? asks Terence.

I suppose so, says Belle. 

I meant, presents, says Terence. 

One present, says Belle.

They take leave of Madame Ponty and walk back to the saints' cottage.

I think I'll turn in now, says Belle. 

We'll sit up for a while, says Saint Méen. 

Me too, says Terence. I have to make a list of presents.

Saint Maclou finds him a pencil.

Terence thinks.

The saints sit at the kitchen table, drinking a bedtime glass of water.

Plant-based turkey! says Saint Maclou. 

Is there such a thing? asks Saint Méen.

Probably made with tofu or rice, says Saint Maclou. And possibly onion.

Makes a change from potato, says Saint Méen.

Marginal, says Saint Maclou.

She probably knew we wouldn't accept, says Saint Méen.

She probably did, says Saint Maclou. Did you hear that horse fart?

A very theatrical horse fart, says Saint Méen.

I agree, says Saint Maclou. I can't help thinking that Buster didn't eat the whole beanie...

The saints drone on, adding to their conspiracy theory. 

It is difficult for Terence to concentrate on his list of desirable presents.

Not to mention that writing is hard.

In fact B is the only letter he can do properly.

He starts the list.

B

Roo-kai looks over his shoulder.

Is this your Christmas list? asks Roo-kai.

This is how far I've got, saysTerence. 

What's the B for? asks Roo-kai.

You tell me, says Terence.

Bike, boat, ball, book? suggests Roo-kai. 

Skateboard? suggests Terence.

That starts with S, says Roo-kai.

Terence is disappointed.

A New Desperation

Have you twisted your ankle? asks Roo-kai.

Yes, says Saint Méen. I didn't see the rabbit hole.

Did you see the rabbit? asks Terence.

There was no rabbit, says Saint Méen.

What about the beanie? asks Roo-kai.

Buster appears to have eaten it, says Saint Méen.

I was right! says Terence.

You were right, says Saint Méen. I heard Buster buzzing.

He's in trouble, says Terence.

Not necessarily, says Saint Méen. I told him it would improve his disposition.

Where to? asks Terence.

A disposition remains with one, says Saint Méen. It does not move. You are thinking of a position. 

A position remains with one, says Roo-kai.

One what? asks Terence.

Anyone, says Saint Méen. Time we went back inside.

They go inside.

Belle and Saint Maclou are drinking their cocoa.

Where's Roo-kai's beanie? asks Belle.

Inside Buster, says Terence.

Buster would never eat a beanie, says Madame Ponty. 

He has a new desperation, says Terence.

Madame Ponty does not need to ask what that means. She rushes outside.

Belle re-heats Saint Méen's cocoa.

Thank you, Belle, says Saint Méen.

What's this new desperation? asks Saint Maclou.

I deliberately misled him, says Saint Méen. I told him henceforth he would have a kind disposition.

Perhaps he will, says Belle.

That is my hope, says Saint Méen. And he may persuade Madame Ponty to give us our beanie.

Yuck! says Terence.

Not THAT one, says Saint Méen. That one is a write-off.

Madame Ponty returns. She has taken off the beanie she was wearing.

These beanies are more trouble than they're worth, says Madame Ponty. You saints can have this one back. And I apologise about the other one. Poor Buster is exceedingly sorry.

She has not shut the door yet.

A volley of horse farts can be heard rumbling outside 

Bamboozled With Reason

 Saint Méen approaches Buster, who is still standing under the tree.

What now? says Buster.

I don't suppose you found a red beanie? asks Saint Méen.

Don't you? says Buster.

This is not the rude answer Saint Méen was expecting.

Did you? asks Saint Méen.

No, says Buster. Was it Roo-kai's or Madame Ponty's?

Why do you use the past tense? asks Saint Méen.

I'm assuming you've lost it, says Buster.

But it must still exist. says Saint Méen. Unless you have found it and eaten it.

Even then, says Buster, it must still exist. I used the past tense for a different reason.

Aha! says Saint Méen. I am glad to know you didn't eat it. What was the reason?

Too woolly, says Buster. And it smelled of fish stew.

I meant the reason for using past tense, says Saint Méen. But thanks for the clue.

A useless clue, says Buster. Both beanies had the same odour.

How annoying, says Saint Méen. When the beanies have been recovered, I must remember to ask Maclou to wash them.

Does he do the washing? asks Buster. What do you do?

The ironing, says Saint Méen. Though it's none of your business.

Let's say I had a nibble, says Buster.

Of the beanie? says Saint Méen.

Nzhhhh! neighs Buster (or was it a buzz?)

Wait! says Saint Méen. You HAVE eaten it! You have tried to bamboozle me with reason, but the buzz gives away your misdemeanour.

Okay, says Buster. Remind me next time not to bother with reason.

I'll remind you next time not to eat used beanies, says Saint Méen. Especially saints' ones.

What will happen? asks Buster. Should I be afraid?

You will find yourself acting kindly towards others, says Saint Méen.

Even if I don't want to? asks Buster.

Especially then, says Saint Méen. And ever after, you will retain a kind disposition.

Buster had not thought he might lose control of his disposition 

Now he's been told that he has.

Saint Méen walks away thinking that sometimes a lie is excusable, if the results are positive.

Buster watches him go.

Saint Méen stumbles, having stepped awkwardly over a rabbit hole.

Ha ha! thinks Buster, and then (bothering, after all, to use reason), Hooray!

Tree And Pony In Question

We need to warm up, says Madame Ponty. I'll make the cocoa.

I'll clear the table, says Belle.

Saint Méen peers out of the window.

You've left the outside light on, says Saint Méen.

Perhaps you'd like to turn it off for me, says Madame Ponty.

Where's Roo-kai? asks Terence. 

We'll find him, says Saint Méen.

He and Terence go outside. 

Saint Méen looks about for the light switch.

Wait, says Terence. Roo-kai might be coming.

They wait. But Roo-kai isn't coming.

Saint Méen turns the outside light off.

Perhaps Roo-kai feels unwanted, says Saint Méen. You left him alone in the tree.

He went there, says Terence.

He may feel bad, says Saint Méen.

He never feels bad, says Terence.

Maybe you just think that, says Saint Méen.

But he doesn't, says Terence.

Saint Meen wonders what Terence means by 'But he doesn't'.

Doesn't feel bad or doesn't think so. They are not quite the same.

He need not reply, however, as Roo-kai manifests himself at this moment.

Roo-kai! says Terence. I got my certificate!

Good for you, says Roo-kai. But I lost my beanie.

You can get another one, says Terence.

No he can't, says Saint Méen. It was only on loan. It must be returned by the morning.

I had it on when I flew over Buster, says Roo-kai.

Did you have it on when I slid off? asks Terence.

I think so, says Roo-kai. Then I flew into a tree.

Did it hurt? asks Terence.

I'm a bird, says Roo-kai. Not a helicopter.

Ha ha ! laughs Terence.

So the beanie has probably caught on a branch in the tree, says Saint Méen. How low were you?

Low enough to have a nice converstion with Buster, says Roo-kai.

I wonder, says Saint Méen, if Buster has found it?

And eaten it, says Terence.

I sincerely hope not, says Saint Méen.

He turns the light back on, and starts hurrying towards the tree and the pony in question.

Acorns In Beanies

 Did I do it? asks Terence.

Yes and no, says Madame Ponty. 

What's the no? asks Terence.

Your dismount was improper, says Madame Ponty.

What's the yes? asks Terence.

You are off, says Madame Ponty. And your bird made it harder.

It was not my intention, says Roo-kai.

Belle comes running.

Is Terence okay?

No harm done, says Madame Ponty. 

I got a no and a yes, says Terence. But the yes was longer.

You deserve it, says Belle. We all saw what happened.

Don't blame Buster, says Madame Ponty. He was spooked by your bird.

Roo-kai has retreated to a tree branch.

In the circumstances, I shall tick the last box, says Madame Ponty.

Yay! says Terence.

Let's get you inside, says Belle. It's freezing.

Is it? asks Terence.

He follows her in.

Madame Ponty unsaddles Buster.

Thank you, Buster, says Madame Ponty, patting Buster.

Why are you so nice all of a sudden? asks Buster.

It's this beanie, says Madame Ponty.

I don't get it, says Buster.

Wait and see, says Madame Ponty.

She leaves Buster to ponder.

But Buster is not one to ponder.

He feels restless. He trots to the tree.

Puzzled? asks Roo-kai, from a dark space above him.

Not me, says Buster. Humans are nuts.

Nuts are more predictable, says Roo-kai.

Nuts don't wear beanies, says Buster.

Acorns do, says Roo-kai.

Buster knows about acorns.

Haha-ee! neighs Buster. Acorns! You are funny!

So, no hard feelings? asks Roo-kai.

What for? asks Buster. 

I spooked you. I shouldn't have flown over you to carry out my plan to help Terence, says Roo-kai.

It could have been worse, says Buster.

Worse? says Roo-kai.

If you flew under me or behind me I'd have kicked you, says Buster.

That's why I didn't, says Roo-kai.

You might have died, says Buster. What was the plan anyway?

To help Terence get his leg over, says Roo-kai. Using science.

You deserve the beanie, says Buster. Not Madame Ponty.

I've already got one, says Roo-kai. See?

But it's dark. Buster can't see it.

Where Is Your Pommel?

Outside, in the shed, Buster is dozing.

A floodlight is turned on.

Bugger! snorts Buster.

Madame Ponty comes up.

Buster dear, will you do us a favour?

Who's us? grumbles Buster.

All of us, says Madame Ponty. 

Don't tell me. A night ride, says Buster.

A simple dismount, says Madame Ponty.

Terence appears from behind.

Did he say yes? asks Terence.

No, says Buster. Not yet. And you don't have a helmet.

You're right, says Madame Ponty. But for a dismount we can dipense with the helmet.

Okay, says Buster. 

She saddles him up.

And to save time, I'll lift Terence on, says Madame Ponty.

No, says Terence. I remember.

He does remember. Face Buster's bottom. Foot in left stirrup. Hoist yourself on.

Reins! says Madame Ponty.

Terence grabs the reins, and tries to hoist himself on.

Did I help you last time? asks Madame Ponty.

Yes, says Terence.

She helps him again. After all, it has nothing to do with dismounting.

Belle and the saints are at the fence watching.

Are you going to let Madame Ponty keep the beanie? asks Belle.

Not likely! says Saint Méen. But she may as well try to earn it. Terence will benefit.

Terence is sitting on Buster. Now for the dismount.

Terence remembers the procedure. Feet out. Hold onto the pommel.

The pommel!

Where's your pommel? asks Terence.

How should I know? asks Buster.

I went stiff last time, says Terence,

Have you gone stiff again? asks Buster. Do you want me to help you get off?

Buster has a nasty look when asking.

Where is Roo-kai?

Here he is, having finally eaten his mussel. Cooked ones are chewy.

Hurry up, Terence, says Madame Ponty.

What's the problem? asks Roo-kai.

I've lost the pommel, says Terence.

It's right there, says Roo-kai, indicating the pommel.

I knew I had a pommel, says Buster. Now get on with it.

Ha ha! laughs Terence. Get on with it! That's not dismounting.

Smart arse! says Buster. 

Leg over, says Roo-kai.

No prompting! says Madame Ponty.

She sees the saints looking at her. Niceness is required.. 

Okay, says Madame Ponty. I'll overlook that, but no more prompting.

Terence remains stiff. He can't start the leg over.

Roo-kai has an idea. He flutters up and over Buster.

Buster is spooked, and rears up a little. Terence slides sideways off Buster, not gracefully.

(a result, though it wasn't the plan)

 

Your Sad Face

Buzz. 

Is there a fly in the kitchen?

No, it is Madame Ponty's red beanie, which is not really hers.

Her angry look softens.

Which could be for one of two reasons.

One: The beanie has the power to soften angry expressions.

Two: She has thought of a plan, whereby the saints will allow her to keep the beanie.

Perhaps I have been too hasty, says Madame Ponty.

In doing what? asks Saint Méen.

In refusing Terence a certificate, says Madame Ponty.

We all thought so, says Saint Méen.

But something is having an effect on my conscience, says Madame Ponty.

Is it the fish stew? asks Belle.

No, dear, says Madame Ponty. 

The potatoes, says Terence.

No, says Madame Ponty.

My sad face, says Roo-kai.

Is that your sad face? asks Madame Ponty. It looks the same as before. O, but you didn't get your mussel!

She passes him a mussel with the tongs.

Terence, give me the certificate, says Madame Ponty.

Terence hands it over.

Madame Ponty unfolds it, finds a pen and starts ticking boxes.

She ticks every box except the last one : 'A successful dismount' .

She signs the certificate, and hands it back to Terence.

There you are, young man. It's the best I can do.

Let me see it , says Belle. This is great, Terence. Say thank you to Madame Ponty.

Perhaps next time he can perform the dismount, says Madame Ponty.

There may not be a next time, says Belle. We're heading to Paris in the morning.

Boo! says Terence.

Buzz! Madame Ponty's beanie buzzes.

How about this? says Madame Ponty. We go outside and ask Buster if he'll allow you to try a dismount.

Yes! says Terence.

In the dark? says Belle.

I'll turn the lights on, says Madame Ponty.

She looks at Saint Méen.

Saint Méen looks at Saint Maclou.

The saints agree silently.

Madame Ponty has displayed normal kindness. 

It will take more than this. 

Off-White, Her Favourite Colour

The fish stew is served, with potatoes and butter.

Enjoy! says Madame Ponty.

Where's mine? asks Terence.

This is yours, says Belle, tipping some cooled fish stew water into a glass.

Terence drinks it.

Roo-kai eats his mussel.

Well, this is delicious, says Saint Méen. You make a fine cotriade, Madame Ponty.

Thank you, Méen, says Madame Ponty.

May I have the recipe? asks Belle.

Of course, says Madame Ponty. As long as you realise that any fish will do.

I do realise, says Belle. 

What fish would you use back in Adelaide? asks Madame Ponty.

Flathead, says Belle. Sardines. Herrings.

And mussels, says Roo-kai.

Would you like another mussel? asks Belle.

I'll get it for him, says Terence.

He leans forward towards the stew pot, in the centre of the table.

He can't quite reach it.

But that doesn't matter. He'll climb onto the table. 

He climbs onto the table, and crawls towards the stew pot.

Terence! says Belle. What terrible manners! Come back and sit down

Never mind, says Madame Ponty, He just wants to be kind to his bird. Here Terence, use these. No fingers in the stew pot!

She offers him the tongs.

Terence turns to take them.

Now Madame Ponty can see the folded certificate in his shorts' pocket.

Only the top of it. But she knows it is one of hers. She can see the top words: "Certificat d'équitation"

And the colour is also distinctive. Off-white, her favourite colour.

What is that in your pocket? asks Madame Ponty.

Nothing, says Terence, turning, and edging back to his seat without the mussel.

It is most certainly nothing, says Madame Ponty. My certificats d'équitation are valueless without my signature.

Bumhole, says Terence.

Everything has gone wrong, and no one is looking too happy.

The Nature Of Pockets

 Potatoes or fish stew first? asks Madame Ponty.

Potatoes, says Saint Maclou. If we don't eat them soon, they'll go cold.

And the butter won't melt, says Saint Méen.

Yes, the butter, says Madame Ponty. Perhaps Terence would like to fetch the butter. It's in the pantry.

She points to the pantry.

Terence walks towards the pantry. 

Why are you walking like that? asks Saint Méen. 

Like what? asks Terence.

With your hands in your pockets, says Saint Méen.

I always do, says Terence.

No you don't, says Saint Méen.

There's nothing in them, says Terence.

He takes his hands out of his pockets.

The top of the folded certificate is now showing.

But luckily for Terence he is now in the pantry.

Perhaps you should serve the fish stew, says Saint Maclou.

Yes, says Madame Ponty. It's quite hot.

Speaking of which, says Saunt Méen, tapping his beanie.

Say no more, says Madame Ponty. I know you want this one back.

She taps her own beanie ( which, strictly speaking, is not hers to tap)

She begins to serve the fish stew.

This looks amazing, says Belle. What's in it? I know there must be at least three types of fish.

Bass, wrasse, and sardines, says Madame Ponty. And of course the twelve mussels.

Roo-kai has his eye on the mussels.

Could Roo-kai have a mussel? asks Belle.

Of course, says Madame Ponty. She picks a mussel from the stew with her tongs.

May I ask why Roo-kai has not been asked to return his beanie? asks Madame Ponty.

His is on loan, says Saint Maclou. 

Perhaps we could come up with a similar arrangement, says Saint Méen.

Perhaps, says Madame Ponty. Where is that infant with the butter?

Terence has not found the butter. It is dark in the pantry.

He comes out with a pack of rice crackers.

Madame Ponty realises she will have to go to the pantry.

She gets up to go, avoiding Terence, who has returned to Roo-kai's side of the table.

Great! She has not seen the folded certificate.

What can I have? asks Terence.

Perhaps some fish stew without any lumps, suggests Belle. It is kind of pinkish.

That will be the red onion, says Saint Méen.

Terence climbs up to sit on the stool between Roo-kai and Belle.

The certificate is now only visible from directly behind him.

This being the nature of pockets.

Think About The Science

Push or pull? asks Roo-kai.

Push! says Terence.

Roo-kai shoves Terence from behind.

Terence doesn't budge for some reason.

You must be too heavy, says Roo-kai.

Help me! cries Terence.

Roo-kai thinks about the science. If he pushes Terence's legs up from below, Terence's weight should do the rest.

I'll try pushing you up from below, says Roo-kai.

Okay, says Terence.

Roo-kai pushes Terence's cement legs upwards.

Terence tips, and slides in through Madame Ponty's office window. At last!

Are you okay? asks Roo-kai from outside the window.

Yes! says Terence. Come in with me!

Roo-kai flutters in through the window.

Sniff. What's that good smell? Fish stew?

Terence tiptoes across to Madame Ponty's desk and takes a certificate from the top of the pile.

Yay! I've got one, says Terence. Now what?

There is a noise, like the front door opening.

And Madame Ponty saying: Do come in! Those potatoes look appetising. 

And Belle saying: I do love your beanie, it looks kind of retro.

And Saint Méen saying: She'll be giving it back

And Saint Maclou saying: Your fish stew smells heavenly. Is it a true cotriade?

And Madame Ponty replying: Maclou, what do you think?

Then footsteps making their way to the kitchen.

They're all here! hisses Roo-kai.

Now what? asks Terence.

Fold up that certificate, says Roo-kai. And put it in your pocket. And wait.

Terence does it.

Roo-kai flaps out of the window, and knocks on the front door.

Madame Ponty opens it.

Message for Belle, says Roo-kai.

Come in, says Madame Ponty.

Roo-kai follows her into the kitchen.

Roo-kai! says Belle. Is Terence with you?

He's nearby, says Roo-kai. Follow me

Excuse me, Madame Ponty, says Belle. I'm just going to get Terence.

She follows Roo-kai outside and round to the open office window.

He's in there, says Roo-kai.

Belle pokes her head in.

Terence! What are you doing?

Getting my certificate, says Terence.

Stealing it, says Belle. Right. Well, you can't just walk through to the kitchen. It'll look too suspicious.

She climbs in through the window. Helps Terence out. Closes the window. Walks with him round to the front door, and ushers him in.

Roo-kai follows.

Sometimes, things work out badly, but at other times, they work out rather well.

That Is Not Hair

At last it is evening. Time for dinner.

The saints have made baked potatoes.

The potatoes are in a large bowl on the table, tops pierced, letting the steam out.

Anyone for butter? asks Saint Méen.

Yes, please, says Belle.

Saint Maclou goes to the pantry.

Dash it! No butter.

Never mind, says Belle. I'm sure they'll be delicious.

No, says Saint Méen. I'll pop across to Madame Ponty's. She always has butter.

Tell Terence to come in, says Belle.  He's still in the garden.

Saint Méen goes out through the garden.

Terence is nowhere in sight.

Saint Méen continues towards Madame Ponty's.

Her lights are on. He can see her through the window,

She is stirring some soup, and....what has she done with her hair?

Wait. That is not hair. It's a beanie.

He knocks on the door.

Madame Ponty opens it, holding a ladle.

A fishy smell wafts out.

I'm making fish stew, says Madame Ponty.

Very fancy, says Saint Méen. 

Thought I'd treat myself, says Madame Ponty. But I've made far too much.

About that beanie you're wearing...? says Saint Méen.

Oh, yes! says Madame Ponty. Many thanks. I assume it's a thank you for Terence's lesson.

Err...would you mind giving it back? asks Saint Méen. We prefer not to let them out of the cellar.

Nonsense, says Madame Ponty. Terence's bird wore one, when he made the delivery.

This must be resolved, says Saint Méen. Meanwhile, may I borrow some butter?

Certainly, says Madame Ponty. Come in. In fact, why don't you ask your friends to come over, and help me consume this fish stew? 

Very kind of you, says Saint Méen. We'll bring our baked potatoes.

What a feast we shall have, says Madame Ponty.

Her beanie buzzes. 

Tch! tuts Saint Méen.

Madame Ponty turns on the radio.

La la lah!

Saint Méen makes his way back to the cottage, thinking hard.

How to recover that beanie?

He therefore fails to notice Terence's short cement legs, protruding from Madame Ponty's office window.

Halo Power

Did it work? asks Terence, when Roo-kai returns.

Yes, says Roo-kai.

How? asks Terence.

The window to Madame Ponty's office is unlatched. says Roo-kai. That means we can easily get in this evening.

Yay! says Terence.

Saint Méen comes outside.

So! says Saint Méen. The beanie was for Roo-kai. That was thoughtful, Terence.

Yes, says Terence.

Do remember to put it back in the cellar, when you come in, says Saint Méen.

Is it valuable? asks Roo-kai.

Let's just say, I wouldn't like it to fall into the wrong hands, says Saint Méen. You may have noticed it still has some buzz left.

Yes, says Roo-kai. I did notice.

Not very powerful, of course, says Saint Méen. The real power resides in our haloes.

I see, says Roo-kai. May I keep it until later this evening?

Certainly, says Saint Méen. Just don't try anything silly.

He goes back inside.

Woo! says Terence. He doesn't know I took TWO beanies.

Lucky you didn't spill the beans, says Roo-kai. 

The beanies? asks Terence.

The information, says Roo-kai. You kept quiet. That was spy-like.

Now what? asks Terence.

We wait for tonight, says Roo-kai. 

Okay, says Terence. While we're waiting, tell me what happened.

She knew it was me, says Roo-kai. Because of my thin orange legs.

We forgot about those, says Terence.

Yes we forgot about those, says Roo-kai. But then I told her about the delivery.

Did she want it? asks Terence.

She wanted it, says Roo-kai. She went to try it on in her bedroom, and that's when I ran into her office and unlatched the window.

That was brave, says Terence. 

I know, says Roo-kai.

Hey, wait! says Terence. If you were in her office, why didn't you steal a certificate?

Am I your parrot? asks Roo-kai.

What a dumb question.

Yes, says Terence.

So I do what's best for you, says Roo-kai.

The red beanie buzzes softly, who knows for what reason.

I had to think quickly, continues Roo-kai. I knew you were looking forward to breaking into the office and stealing the certificate tonight, so I simply unlatched the window. Tonight we shall have an adventure.

Buzz! goes the beanie.

But I might not wear this, says Roo-kai.

Chic And Retro With Buzz

Roo-kai knocks on Madame Ponty's door.

The door opens.

You again, says Madame Ponty.

How did you recognise me? asks Roo-kai.

Your thin orange legs, says Madame Ponty. 

So much for my disguise, says Roo-kai.

Indeed. But the hat is effective, says Madame Ponty. And I see that you carry a spare.

Not a spare, says Roo-kai. This is a delivery.

For Buster? asks Madame Ponty.

For you, says Roo-kai.

I haven't ordered a holey red beanie, says Madame Ponty.

Then it must be a gift, says Roo-kai.

Who is the sender? asks Madame Ponty.

I would need to check the paperwork, says Roo-kai.

Never mind, says Madame Ponty. Come in. 

Very kind, says Roo-kai.

He enters the vestibule.

Give me the beanie, says Madame Ponty. I'll try it on. It will make me look chic and retro.

She takes the beanie into her bedroom.

Roo-kai wonders if he has time to enter her office and unlatch a window.

He can hear Madame Ponty trying the hat on.

Hmm. Non! Ahh! Très bien. Buzzz! Ooh! Qu'est que c'est?

She seems to be trying variations. Positioning and repositioning the holes. And fiddling with the buzz.

He dashes into the office, past the desk with its pile of certificates, and across to the window.

He unlatches the window, leaving it closed.

He dashes back to the vestibule where Madame Ponty left him.

She comes out, in the red holey hat, looking, if not chic, certainly retro.

Tell the saints I am honoured to receive this, says Madame Ponty. I have dreamed of owning one of their old beanies. And this one still has plenty of buzz.

Roo-kai bows, and turns to leave.

Plenty of buzz. He wonders if the beanie he is wearing has any buzz left. 

He pulls it down till his beak pokes through one of the holes, and hears a faint buzzing sound. 

Bingo! It does!

Why Not? He Could Have

The afternoon passes slowly.

Terence is sitting outside, under a tree.

Roo-kai comes and goes.

Here he comes now.

Well? says Terence. Did you spy though her window?

I did, says Roo-kai. There's a pile of papers on her desk in the front room.

Did they look like certificates? asks Terence.

Hard to say, says Roo-kai. The window was closed. 

Why don't you knock on her door? asks Terence.

A spy wouldn't do that, says Roo-kai.

A tricky spy might, says Terence. Knock on her door and ask for a drink of water.

All right, says Roo-kai. 

He goes.

Terence dreams about his certificate. What will be on it?

"Terence has learned to do mounting and squeezing with his knees and kicking with his heels to start his pony".

"He has not fallen off when his pony has run at a tree".

"He can easily do dismounting". (Why not? He could have.)

signed, Madame Ponty.

Roo-kai returns.

That was quick, says Terence.

She directed me to her bird bath, says Roo-kai. 

Did you look hot and thirsty? asks Terence.

Yes, says Roo-kai. I was hoping she would open a window.

Because it was hot, says Terence. Good thinking.

But she didn't, says Roo-kai.

What about a delivery? asks Terence.

I can't very well turn up with a delivery, says Roo-kai.

You could if you wore a disguise, says Terence. Wait here. I'll get one.

He runs inside, and looks around. 

Hello Terence, says Saint Méen. Feeling chilly?

Yes, says Terence. Can I borrow your beanie?

Not this one, says Saint Méen. But there are some old beanies down in the cellar.

Terence runs down the stone stairs. Yes! There are several old beanies hanging on hooks there.

Terence has a brainwave, and takes two.

He runs upstairs with the beanies. 

Found one? asks Saint Méen.

Yes, says Terence, running fast so that Saint Meen won't ask why he took two.

Roo-kai is waiting outside.

Here, says Terence. Put one of these on.

They are both red, with holes in. Roo-kai chooses one.

You're not coming, says Roo-kai. What's the other one for?

It's the delivery, says Terence.

Great, says Roo-kai. 

He goes, wearing one beanie and carrying one in his beak.

It's going to take all his ingenuity to make this delivery convincing.

Doubtful But Strangely Excited

Terence stomps into the saints' kitchen.

How was the lesson? asks Saint Méen.

I learned EVERYthing, says Terence.

Yet you do not look happy, says Saint Méen.

BECAUSE, says Terence, I didn't get a certificate.

Belle comes in. 

Mmm! says Belle, sniffing. What's for lunch? It smells delicious!

A special lunch treat! says Saint Maclou, looking up from the oven.

Inside the oven the special lunch treat is nicely browning.

I hear Terence didn't get a certificate, says Saint Méen.

Yes, says Belle. Just because he was lifted off instead of dismounting.

Saint Méen looks at Terence.

Could you have dismounted? asks Saint Méen.

Yes, says Terence. As soon as I got unstiffened. 

Madame Ponty is really strict, says Belle. I think Terence was overwhelmed with instructions.

Yes, says Terence. And now I'm overwhelmed with not having a certificate.

We could make you a certificate, says Saint Maclou. How would that do?

Terence doesn't think it would do.

That would be nice, says Belle. But it wouldn't be the same. What's that you're cooking?

Duchesse potatoes, says Saint Maclou. They should almost be ready.

He opens the oven again. They are ready!

He pulls out the tray, using a tea towel, and sets it down on the table.

Yummy! says Belle. It's years since I had duchesse potatoes.

What are they? asks Terence. 

Mashed potatoes piped into little frilly mounds, and then browned, says Belle. 

Terence has a closer look at the duchesse potatoes.

Potatoes again. Not that yummy.

Can I go outside? asks Terence.

Sure, says Belle. I'll bring you a drink, in a minute.

Terence goes outside. Roo-kai is waiting.

You've got a certificate, says Terence.

Yes, I got one for spying, says Roo-kai.

So I should get one for riding a pony, says Terence. 

I know, says Roo-kai. But there's not much we can do about it.

We could sneak into Madame Ponty's house at night and take one, says Terence.

What good would that do? asks Roo-kai.

Then I'd have one, says Terence.

It wouldn't have your name on it, says Roo-kai. 

So what? says Terence. We could fix that later.

Roo-kai is doubtful about one or two aspects of Terence plan, but also strangely excited.

It brings back memories of the time he spied on the unfinished Collins Class Type 471 French submarine, with Baby Pierre, back in Adelaide, and stole the French instructions for drilling a periscope hole, for which action he received his Chevalier des Clandestines medal.

All right, says Roo-kai. We'll do it.

Stiff All Of A Sudden

That was hard, says Terence.

Yes, you didn't fall off, says Buster.

I had a straight back, says Terence.

You weren't very flexible, says Buster.  

Madame Ponty and Belle arrive at the gate.

Now to dismount, says Madame Ponty. You must do it correctly.

Do I have to turn round and face Buster's bottom? asks Terence.

Of course not, says Madame Ponty. 

He's remembering how he got on, says Belle.

Obviously this is different, says Madame Ponty. Now Terence, remove both feet from the stirrups.

Terence removes them.

Hold the reins in your left hand, and with your right hold the pommel.

Madame Ponty points to the pommel.

Now hoist your right leg over Buster's hindquarters, and gently drop down beside him, says Madame Ponty.

Terence prepares to start hoisting.

Remember to land with your knees slightly bent, says Madame Ponty.

Got that? snickers Buster.

No! says Terence. I've gone stiff all of a sudden.

Never mind, says Belle. I'll get you off in jiffy.

She puts one arm around Terence, and lifts him down from Buster.

That is unacceptable, says Madame Ponty. Terence must re-mount and dismount properly, if he wants a certificate.

Wah! cries Terence. I do want a certificate.

You can come back tomorrow, says Belle. 

No he can't, says Madame Ponty. I'm busy tomorrow.

So am I, says Buster.

All right, we'll call that it, then, says Belle. How much do I owe you?

Nothing, says Madame Ponty. It was a favour.

Goodbye, Madame Ponty, says Belle. Goodbye, Buster. And thanks.

Terence has marched off already.

No way he is saying goodbye or thanks to Madame Ponty or Buster.

Roo-kai, perched on the fence near the gate post, foresees trouble.

Who Is The Instructor?

Is my lesson finished? asks Terence.

Not at all, says Madame Ponty. You must trot back to the gate, where you mounted. 

Go! says Terence, squeezing Buster's sides with his knees.

Very good, says Madame Ponty. Follow up with a mild kick with your heels.

I'm not moving, says Buster.

What is it, Buster? asks Madame Ponty. Sore tummy?

Buster nods, in a pony-like fashion.

Just take Terence back to the gate, then you can relax, says Madame Ponty.

Yes, says Terence. Go! You have to. You ate the whole pancake.

I knew it! says Madame Ponty.

How was it? asks Belle.

It doesn't matter how it was, says Madame Ponty. He shouldn't have had it.

Neither should Terence, says Belle. 

What do you mean? asks Madame Ponty.

You forced him to eat it, says Belle. Though it's my fault, for not saying in time.

Such misunderstandings, sighs Madame Ponty.

She pats Buster.

Buster moves off towards the gate at a fast trot, before Terence is ready.

But Terence remains in the saddle.

Well done Terence! calls Madame Ponty. Heels down! Back straight and flexible!

What's flexible? asks Terence.

Only Buster hears the question.

Bendy, says Buster.

How can I keep my back straight AND bendy? asks Terence.

That's your problem, says Buster.

Can we go back and ask? asks Terence.

I suppose so, says Buster.

He turns and heads back to the tree.

Non! Non! cries Madame Ponty. Look where you want to go!

Maybe he wants to ask a question, says Belle.

Tut! He forgets Buster has a sore tummy, says Madame Ponty.

Buster stops. 

He knows Madame Ponty will not like this question.

How can I keep my back what you said? asks Terence.

Straight? asks Madame Ponty.

And bendy, says Terence. 

Who said it had to be bendy? says Madame Ponty.

You, says Terence.

Flexible! says Madame Ponty. It's not the same thing.

It's not that different, says Belle.

Who is the instructor? asks Madame Ponty.

You, says Belle. But it was rather clever of Terence to know that flexible means bendy.

When it doesn't, says Madame Ponty.

It's clear she is in a bad mood.

What she means, I suppose, says Belle, is try and keep your back straight as possible, while moving your bottom back and forth to match the movement of the pony.

It's called having a good seat, says Madame Ponty. And there's a great deal more to it.

Okay! says Terence.

Let's see if you learned it, says Buster. 

I learned it! says Terence.

Buster trots back to the gate, fast.

Terence keeps his back straight, and doesn't fall off, but that's all.

Buster Is Rumbled!

What's happening? asks Belle.

Do you think these are fossils? asks Madame Ponty, showing her the stone snails.

They look familiar, says Belle.

Do you know a lot about fossils? asks Madame Ponty.

Belle is about to answer when Terence notices what Madame Ponty is holding.

His curls. 

They're mine, says Terence. But you can keep them.

How did they get there? asks Belle. Did you fall off Buster when we weren't looking?

No, says Terence. I didn't fall off. Even when Buster ran straight at the tree branch.

Buster would never do that, says Madame Ponty.

He did, says Roo-kai. I saw him. But the curls were already loose under Terence's helmet.

Yes, says Terence. They were rattling.

Take off your helmet, says Belle. Let's look at the damage.

Terence takes off his helmet.

Now Belle and Madame Ponty can see his cool hairstyle, which is short on the sides.

Not bad, says Belle. It makes you look older.

I am older, says Terence. Does it make me look cool?

It makes your ears look cool, says Belle.

What does that mean? asks Terence.

Just a joke, says Belle. Of course you look cool. But I wonder how the curls came off in the first place?

I must confess that it could be my fault, says Madame Ponty. I jammed his helmet on hard.

Yes! says Terence. That's when it happened.

No harm done, says Belle. Helmets will fit him more easily. But his other hat may need taking in. 

What other hat? asks Terence.

Your sun hat, says Belle.. 

I thought I lost it, says Terence. 

Not the sun hat, says Belle. I still have it somewhere.

I don't need it, says Terence. 

You're right there, says Belle. It's quite cloudy and chilly.

Does he want the curls back? asks Madame Ponty. He should have them. He might get cold ears.

Ha ha! laughs Terence.

What's so funny? asks Madame Ponty.

What Belle said, says Terence. About cool ears. Not what you said.

But Madame Ponty is bending down again to pick up the bottom half of the pancake. 

She doesn't like seeing dropped food in her field.

This is only the bottom half of a pancake! says Madame Ponty.

Buster burps a pancakey burp and tries, too late, to alter its direction.

Sniff-sniff! Madame Ponty sniffs it.

Buster is rumbled!