don't ask me. you should know better than i do, shouldn't you? [ light tone, heavy question. then he sighs.. ] what would you like me to do, martin? so far the things you have mentioned are out of my control.

aren't they your assistants? they surely wouldn't abandon you. [ far too relaxed. He's still staring ] they all seem reluctant to leave, at least.

a job they need, evidently. [ leaning forward again, sterner face. ] i trust you are capable of doing your job. and that includes looking after the assistants, and allowing them to assist you, yes? i can't accommodate hand holding here, martin.

there you go. not so hard, is it? [ SUCH a fake smile. ] i have faith in you. and, there will be no more bug infestations. you have my word on that. head on back, then. expect an email details all of this.

get some work done, then we can see about slipping out.

no, martin. you don't do that sort of work. you already have a lot on your plate, what with sasha on break, and jon busy with other things. [ dismissive wave. ] just yourself and tim for a short while, but i'm sure you'll be fine. better make a start on those statements.

things seem to be functioning normally, thankfully. no more incidents.

all very quiet now in the archives.

we should talk when you get a chance.

don't be dramatic now.

i believe we discussed this when you were hired, didn't we? we are adults here, i think we are capable of a calm discussion.

i think i'm being very clear about how this will go, martin. we will discuss it when you have sorted yourself out.

i think we should talk about this in private.

i didn't know, if that is any help to you. truly and honestly, i swear.

because i would prefer to speak in private, but you seemed reluctant.

i did. ( not sat at his desk like he usually is, peter is stood up, pipe in hand. ) you have questions, i assume.

i can answer what i can. sit. ( gestures to the chair. ) you look like you hurt yourself down there. we'll forgo the accident form for now.

trouble?

Fussy lot.

This is why we have a complaint box.