"Interesting," is the verdict. "I've sufficient motivation to consider it, at least. Sacrificed pillowcases or not."

It's not as if he's received complaints, but it sounds considerate. A shame he gave the oil over to Bastien's white elephant exchange.

John's hands fold over the slant of his crutch. He's adopted a comfortable lean in his chair in the course of the exchange.

"I hear congratulations are in order."