I've often noticed" Fiona said, "that when people say, 'This can't happen in this day and age', they say it because it is happening.
Diana Wynne JonesSmall Man can be a very funny or a very tiresome Tour Companion, depending on how this kind of thing grabs you. He gambles, he drinks too much and he always runs away. Since the Rules allow him to make Jokes, he will excuse his behaviour in a variety of comical ways. Physically he is stunted and not at all handsome, although he usually dresses flamboyantly. He tends to wear hats with feathers in. You will discover he is very vain. But, if you can avoid smacking him, you will come to tolerate if not love him. He will contrive, in some cowardly way, to play a major part in saving the world.
Diana Wynne JonesOh! Polly thought. Why aren't all girls locked up by law the year they turn fifteen? They do such stupid things!
Diana Wynne Jones