“Erosion analysis,” said Sylvia.
“Vulnerability of forest,” said Ben.
“Medieval warm period ending,” said Geoff. “And if there’s water stress.” Artemisia thought that stressed water probably needed counselling.
“Nature of the managed ecosystem,” Ben volunteered, into silence. Artemisia’s thoughts turned to why it was fine for Ben to use five words at a time and not for Tony. She suspected they were all so used to his silences that even three words would sound voluble. This feeling was reinforced when Ben added, “Impact of climate change on pathogens and phytophages,” and Theo quietly wrote it down.
“Temperature and rainfall measurements,” said Geoff.
“Haven’t we had that?” asked Sylvia.
“Then put down atmospheric pollution.” Theo did.
“Modelling the impact of climate change, studyin
