Everyone turned in surprise to see Toffee, newly reinstated to the realm of reality, move forward.
"I was only tryin' to help," Floss said defensively.
"I saw you palm that wallet," Toffee said hotly. "Put it back, you camp-following kewpie before I crack your plaster!"
"Okay," Floss said, replacing the wallet, "but I guess I've got as much right to him as you."
"You've also got a right to be carried out of here feet first!" Toffee said. Doubling her fists, she stepped forward. "What kind of flowers do you want on your coffin?"
"Why, you redheaded hellcat...."
The gavel banged thunderously. "Just what's going on here?" the judge roared, leaning across the bench. He pointed to Toffee. "How did you get in here?"
Toffee moved sinuously toward the bench. "Don't upset yourself with worrisome details, judge," she smiled. "Let's just stop flubbing around here and get on the ball."
"What!" the judge yelled.
"You're far too upset to handle the situation sensibly. Anyone can see that."