He lifted the receiver, punched in several numbers, and waited.
Utilities Commission, how can I help you?
“Hello.”
“Hello. How can I help you?”
“Hello. I’m only seven, but I know how to use the phone.”
“Yes, how can I help you?”
“I’ve watched mummy.”
“Say again, please.”
“Mummy, I’ve watched her.”
“Sorry, are you reporting something?”
“Yes, I am saying I have watched mummy… to be able to use the phone to… to report something.”
“OK. What would you like to report?”
“Yesterday I was on my bike in the park when a dog ran up to me barking. It was barking very loud. I was very frightened. My mum was very angry. The man was very rude to my mum. They argued for a very long time. I was getting very tired. My mum explained it was because it was getting very late. It was getting very dark. We went home very fast. My feet were getting very sore. When we got home…”
“Sorry to interrupt you, but did you say you are seven years old?”
“Yes, but I am six and very nearly seven.”
“Alright, and does your mother know you are using the phone?”
“No. I think she would get very cross with me if…”
“Yes, OK. I think you should put the phone down now, and only use it when your mum says you can.”
“OK. Thank you very much.”
“You’re VERY welcome.”
Click.