I’m not sure I disagree with Ranger/Scoutmaster Shaw’s request in panel 3, so hear me out. It seems normal enough to want to know what’s going on with Rusty, especially if the troop is genuinely concerned for him. However, his request in panel 1 seems a bit high-handed and monopolistic. Excluding Rusty’s mother from their talking to Rusty is a no-win position, which makes Cherry’s comment in panel 2 an unusually polite way to say “Not in this universe, Bubba!”

So, while I accept the validity of Shaw’s request in panel 3, he cut off his own legs in panel 1. I do not know why Jules Rivera chose to make him look antagonistic, when he should have looked humble or apologetic. I suppose it’s to play to the plot. Shaw has look arrogant. It certainly undercuts his expressed motive, surprised that he could not assert a non-existent authority over Cherry. It’s little wonder that Cherry told the kids to go play somewhere else so she can have a “Come-to-Jesus” talk with their scoutmaster!

What do you think about today’s strip?