Happy New Year to you! And to all your family, human and feline.

I admit that particular Time Patrol story was the one that finally made me decide this simply Will Not Do. Using people as means, not ends, proves Delgado's masters are not a good result, and Delgado should know it. In fact, why he doesn't at least try to think his way out of the situation is never explained. I do find Salgado pretty two dimensional, too. He's Pathetic Indian, rather than Natural Indian or Savage Indian. The Mongols are a bit fluffy, too: though I like the shaman not being impressed by glitz.

The Cantine Story should definitely be required reading in all political courses. I admit I'd read quite a bit before I realise the teller was male, but that's probably me. (It was the female byline.)

The Bunch does sound as if it might have been meant to be parable, too?

Thanks for the Bretnor. The critic's words were delightful, and all too like one!

Enjoy the drive-in! Whether you do or not, I'm sure we'll enjoy your writng about it.