Me: I love this photo of Jonathan and Mutley.
Nell: Yes, I think they were discussing tractors. Mutley is very knowledgeable. I am putting together an album for their birthdays.
Me: How lovely. How are preparations for tomorrow’s birthday party coming along?
Nell: Poppy and I have finalised the menu. It’s all London favourites of Mutley’s. Cockles, whelks and jellied eels to start. Pie and mash with liquor for main.
Me: What kind of liquor? Whisky?
Nell: No, it’s a green parsley sauce. Do keep up. Jam roly poly and custard for afters.
Me: You never say afters.
Nell: But Mutley does, and it’s his party.
Me: True. Why is Dave hovering by the gate?
Nell: Pawsome and Basin are delivering a hamper with the Port and Stilton. David is responsible for signing for it and then bringing it to Poppy.
Me: Oh dear. What about the cake?
Nell: Mutley enjoys a plain sponge, so Poppy has made one in the shape of a piano. Harriet is icing it under her guidance. There will be 15 candles, of course.
Me: It all sounds under control.
Nell: Hopefully. The Cat is responsible for the decorations which is a slight concern. I am expecting lots of glitter.
Me: Yes. What about entertainment?
Nell: Mutley’s swing band are flying in from the United States.
Me: He will be delighted. Where is he?
Nell: Charlie has taken him for a round of golf and drinks at the club house.
Me: Nell, there’s a Great Dane at the gate talking to Dave.
Nell: It will be Ron Gilbert from Torquay. The Cat roped him in to do the lighting.
Me: Dave just gave him a handbag and he’s putting something in it.
Nell: What? It’s my handbag, isn’t it? I can see Gladys and Rita Pawreno peering out. Are those castanets?
Me: Yes. Sorry.
