this strip works on so many levels. We see Calvin complaining about “girls and dumb toy animals” – as Hobbes reverts to his inanimate state. We also see Susie, who often states how little she cares about Calvin especially after he insults her, actually feeling sad about Calvin’s rejections. And finally, there’s Hobbes who often acts as Calvin’s conscience prodding him to do the right thing – even if it is in the guise of getting free cookies.
The irony is that Peppermint Patty is probably a better hockey player than both of them combined.