 How does Joe feel about Brett-James and Reston-Farrell?
Joe had been born in Naples and his mother had died in childbirth. Reston-Farrell said, "I am afraid, Mr. Salviati-Prantera, that these are the only garments available. Reston-Farrell said compassionately, "Try this, it's excellent cognac." Reston-Farrell, the one Joe had already met, was tall and drawn of face and with a chainsmoker's nervousness. Reston-Farrell said, "Of course," and then something else Joe didn't get. Reston-Farrell said, "Suffice to say, you are now one hundred and seventy-three years after the last memory you have." Reston-Farrell said, "Mr. Prantera, we have brought you from your era to perform a task for us."
 Joe thinks they are ridiculous and that Howard Temple-Tracy would make a better associate.
 Joe is a little intimidated by them as they seem to be significantly more educated than he is.  Joe doesn't know what to think. There's no such thing as time travel. He must be going crazy.  Joe thinks they are ridiculous and that Howard Temple-Tracy would make a better associate.  Joe thinks they are cowards as they are unable to kill their enemy themselves.