"That's all very well" Elspeth remained polite but unmistakedly firm "but I had been keeping James as a toad for a reason."
James wished he knew what the reason were.
"Besides, he is living with me. If James were to become an elephant or a rhinosaurus that would hardly be practical."
"Could you not just use a shrink spell?" Kenneth suggested hopefully.
"I can't be around to monitor his changes twenty four seven" Elspeth was beginning to show the smallest degree of irritation in her voice "under the circumstances I would request you begin to prepare an antidote immediately"
"Of course, Elspeth" Kenneth's tone suddenly became notably more respectful and even a little fearful "But I can't see any way it can happen in less than two weeks. It will need to be worked on from scratch by our suppliers. Until then please help yourself to anything you would like from our shop on the house and accept my profuse apologies.
"Very well" Elspeth sighed picking James up from the floor "be sure to let me know once your antidote is ready. Until then I shall just have to manage. Come on Silas, Nicola, it's time to head home."
"Of course Elspeth, I'll contact my supplier right away." Kenneth promised as the quartet left his premises "Again, please accept my apologies!"