February 25. My older daughter came back from work early and suggested we go for a walk with Rani, Mowgli and Button to the race course.

“Button, coming for a walk?”

“Anytime. I’ll go put on my sneakers. Just give me a second. We should do this more often  Why can’t Dost and your younger daughter join us?”

“Both are at work. We can call them or get them to come the next time.”

“I’ll miss them.”

“We’ve arrived, Button. Come and hold my hand while I hold on to Rani’s leash. My daughter will manage Mowgli.”

“I can hold both Rani’s and Mowgli’s leashes if you only allow me to. I am strong enough.”

“I know that but I think we ought to be cautious the first time. There are far too many people and lots of strays here.”

“The weather is beautiful. Rani, Mowgli and Button, can you see that man astride that animal. Tell me what that animal is and don’t go around smelling horseshit, Mowgli.”

After waiting for a few seconds and being greeted with silence, Button answered the question himself.

“That’s a horse, you dumbos.”

“Button, don’t call your friends names. If you misbehave, I won’t bring you the next time. Now say sorry to both Rani and Mowgli. You’re such a bully.”

“Rani and Mowgli, I am sorry.”

“Button, now tell me what professional horse-riders are called: Those who ride them during horse racing.”

“What? I don’t know.”

“Dumbo. They are called jockeys.”

“Did you just call me a dumbo? Now you apologize or I won’t talk to you.”

“Ok, I am sorry.”