Me: Where is Poppy?
Nell: Having a lie in.
Me: Poppy never has a lie in and it’s Monday.
Nell: She and Malcolm were up until the early hours making macarons.
Me: I’m glad we decided that Malcolm can stay.
Nell: Yes. We still have to meet with the Count to secure Malcolm’s release.
Me: Why? Was Malcolm a prisoner?
Nell: No. Malcolm foolishly signed up to the Flamingo foreign legion.
Me: He did?
Nell: Yes, I cant think what possessed him to do such a thing. They are renowned for their brutality.
Me: Gosh.
Nell: Malcolm’s father and brothers served so I presume it was expected of him.
Me: I’m surprised he got in.
Nell: True. Anyway the Count has agreed to meet us this afternoon.
Me: Who is the Count?
Nell: Do you mean you have never heard of Count Bingo Flamingo?
Me: No, and it’s a very silly name.
Nell: Bingo is greatly feared and a ruthless soldier.
Me: Do you think the Beefies have employed Bingo’s flamingos to help them take over Pupways?
Nell: Probably. Don’t call them that. It’s not a laughing matter.
Me: What if Bingo refuses?
Nell: He won’t. Mutley and I will see to that and Poppy has her sword with John the Doberman on stand by.
Me: No wonder she is having a lie in.
Nell: Malcolm is extremely nervous so no silly talk.
Me: Where is he?
Nell: Harriet is teaching him how to knit, she learnt it from the Welsh corgis in the summer. She will be at Malcolm’s side during negotiations.
Me: Will Dave be on his other side?
Nell: Certainly not. David will be singing and Gladys will perform a contemporary dance.
Me: Of course. Sorry.