Okay.

[Obediently, he takes the Gear and holds it carefully, thinking a minute before pushing the button.]

Hi, Mom. This is Tomcat! I guess you might not know who that is, though, if this really is the past. Dad didn't, either, but it's okay 'cause he believes us now. I hope you do too. But if not I guess I can prove it like I did with Dad, because one time when I was little I opened your locket with the picture of Grandma inside and you said that wasn't for me to play with because only you get to open it. Um, I'm still sorry. About that. But I know that and nobody else would, so you know it's me.

I'm really good, though. We walked a whole lot today. I did more of it than Lily 'cause sometimes I carried her. Are you busy stealing something? We saw lots of really neat landmarks that we thought you would like, but we didn't know how to take any of them for you. All of our animals were too small. I guess we didn't have enough talent and preparation this time! But I'll be more prepared when I'm a Boy Scout, promise.

I hope you catch up with us soon! We're safe with Dad now, so you can find us like you always do. Then we could have hugs from you too.

Is that too long? Oh — oops, I'm still on. Um, bye, Mom! This is your dashing son, Thomas S. Cooper, signing off.

[He hits the button once more, looking satisfied.]