"I appreciate it then. I accept your apology," Matt replied with a grin. He finished scattering what was left of the crumbs and received delighted hoots in reply before the coos of disappointment came from the lack of crumbs.
The birds shuffled away to find anyone else willing to feed them.
"Well, Clarice, it was great to meet you today. I have to get going, I have an appointment. I hope we cross paths again." Matt rose slowly. He brushed together the palms of his hands to rid them of any excess crumbs, before collecting his baton. He offered Clarice a nod of goodbye and he turned and headed away back in the direction he had originally come.