"Patrick asked what art is," Hendrik explained.
"Are you clear on that now?" Mrs. Van Slyke asked as she took the empty bottles from their hands. Parker was grinning on the sideline.
"Umm—it's over there," Patrick said, waving at the studio.
"Of course it is," Mrs. Van Slyke said without changing expression. "What wonderful crews you have, Parker! The place looks marvelous. I hope you will be able to do the studio next year."
"It will be first on on my list," Parker promised. "Come, Patrick, let's get the ladder on the rack."
"Thanks for the Heineken," Patrick said to Hendrik.
"Good job," Hendrik said.
"Goodbye, Patrick. I hope that we see you again." Mrs. Van Slyke smiled and waited for his reaction.
"Bye," he said. They hustled off. On their way down the mountain, he felt the mood lighten. "Whew," he said.
"Nice going, Patrick. A raise is in order—$2.25, retroactive to the beginning of this week."