[Dale notes - and is soon impressed by - Ace's ability to walk backwards so deftly, and starts mentally compiling a list of possible explainations. performer. construction or road worker. tour guide. et cetera]

You're not kidding, Ace, it was the most terrible thing I ever tasted. Even two cups of the Double R Diner's coffee wouldn't wash it out. I had to have three pieces of cherry pie before I couldn't taste it anymore.

[he gives a little shudder]

The only thing coffee should taste like is coffee.