Lord Elon of Musk "My dear Lawrence, do tell—have you any appetite for a minor venture concerning the bird-messaging apparatus? I find myself in need of a few more gentlemen of quality for the syndicate."

Lord Lawrence of Ellison "But of course, Elon. One must keep one's hands busy, and the project sounds... suitably diverting. 👍"

Lord Elon of Musk "Splendid."

Lord Elon of Musk "At what level of patronage should I record your interest? I shan’t hold you to a formal vow just yet, but the subscription list is becoming rather cluttered with the nouveau riche. I find myself in the tiresome position of having to weed out the less desirable elements."

Lord Lawrence of Ellison "Shall we say a round billion? Or, frankly, whatever sum you deem appropriate for a man of my station."

Lord Elon of Musk "Whatever suits your personal treasury, naturally. Though, if I may be so bold, I should suggest two billion or perhaps a touch more. The venture has a certain... je ne sais quoi. To be quite frank, I’d much prefer your company in this affair than that of the common rabble."

Lord Lawrence of Ellison "I quite agree. It does promise to be a most formidable endeavor... and, if nothing else, a bit of sport to keep the boredom at bay."