As the cutout of a Northern Bobwhite curiously sits out in the open (panel 1), Mark answers his phone. I was at least partially correct about who would be calling. Not quite actual family, but extended family, I reckon. Most of you may recall that Niecy is the daughter of Jolly Roger, neighbor and friend of Happy Trails. Their troubled past was part of the drama in Mark’s first adventure when Jules Rivera took over. It’s a story worth reading and especially viewing, as it displays what I consider Rivera’s best art on the strip. If you get distracted by the slightly different take on Niecy, don’t worry. The appearance of many comic strip characters evolved over the years. However, the initial version of Niecy Rogers certainly looked a few years older, as in grown up!

Well, it looks like another non-paying adventure is lining up on Mark. I hope he got a sizable check for that non-story on Tad Crass.