Viola Problems

Junior Quartet Tuesday.

Viola: I ... um... the A string broke on my viola.  So I can't play.
Me: Okay, so you just need a new string?
Viola: No... um... I don't have my viola.
Me: But you're just missing a string?
Viola: No, it broke in ensemble yesterday, and then I had to go, so Ms L said just to leave it there, and now I can't find it.
Me: Have you ... looked ... for it?
Viola: Um...
Violin 2: You should look in the chalet [where the string department is].  It's probably there.

Viola came back with a viola - not hers, but with all its strings intact.  Then, on Wednesday, she came up to her lesson at morning tea with Mr B.  With no viola, but a sheepish smile on her face when she saw me.

Viola: Hi.  Um, my teacher wouldn't let me go.
Mr B: Well, I don't have anyone now so can you come now?
Viola: Well [awkward glance at me] my A string broke.
Mr B: That's okay, I can put a new one on for you.
Me: Do you know where your viola is now?
Viola looks rather guilty.
Mr B: You - you lost your viola?
Viola [defensively]: Well, I didn't lose it, I just can't find it.  [Gives same explanation as above].
Me: Have you actually looked in the room?
Viola: I couldn't get in-
Me: Did you maybe knock on the staffroom door and ask if any of the teachers there could have a look for you?
Viola: Um...
Mr B: Well, you know what, I have a key so let's go and have a look now.

He's so nice.  It was right where she'd left it.  Now it has all its strings.