"One thing you must consider," she says--and again she is choosing her words with obvious care-- "Is that those of us who guard our composure sometimes take comfort in others who are more free. They can say and feel things we forbid ourselves."

"Your apology is accepted."

The now-thoroughly-cooled porridge vanishes and is replaced with a thick slice of bread. It is slathered in jam, but for whatever reason the Bar has been moved to compromise.