Publius

“Excuse me.”

“Aaaaaaaaaaaah!”

“Did we startle you? Terribly sorry.”

“I was just–”

“Napping? In the middle of the day? It’s fine for some, I suppose.”

“Is there something I can do for you, Miss Pond?”

“In support of your ongoing effort to bring more birds into the cast, I have brought you my friend, Publius. Publius is a penguin.”

“I can see that.”

“Publius, say hello.”

“HELLO.”

“Publius is an accomplished entertainer with a specialty in dramatic recitations.”

“That’s very nice, but–”

“Publius, recite The Wreck of the Hesperus.”

“Honestly, there’s no need.”

“IT WAS SCHOONER HESPERUS THAT SAILED THE WINTRY SEA–”

“No, truly. Thank you, but–”

“I’ll just leave you two to get acquainted and sign contracts and things. Leave the papers on my desk when you’ve finished.”

“Wait a minute–”

“You’re kind to offer, but some of us have work to do. I’m off. Publius, be sure they give you a proper lunch.”

“AND THE SKIPPER HAD TAKEN HIS LITTLE DAUGHTER TO BEAR HIM COMPANY.”

“Wait–”

“Goodbye.”