It is a good episode for Xander -- though his on-going obliviousness to Willow's feelings for him are a ding on his record.

Not sure what to make of the omitted scene... though I agree that they show us very little about Angel -- certainly not enough to know what really makes him tick.

Big word on your enthusiasm for Prophecy Girl. When I watched it again the other night I was thinking that it is the episode I'd use to try to sell the show. And also agree how nice it is to see a Buffy who is so open and carefree. Big heart, that girl.