Me: How are you feeling today?
Nell: A little better. There is far too much to do for me to languish around like some people.
Me: I am supposed to rest.
Nell: So, Harriet and I cornered David and made him see the error of his ways.
Me: He was ever so naughty.
Nell: He says he didn’t run away. He was out walking and playing It with some sheep when the next thing he knew a farmer had tied him up and Kev appeared on a quad bike.
Me: Oh dear.
Nell: Harriet and I explained that you must never play It, or Shenanigans, or anything at all with sheep, or cows. They are to be left completely alone.
Me: Quite right.
Nell: It doesn’t matter how many times they shout at you, or call you names. A good labrador turns the other jowl and walks on by.
Me: Did Dave understand?
Nell: I certainly hope so. I threatened to exclude him from tomorrow’s activities.
Me: Good idea.
Nell: Now, you are confined to bed but fortunately there will be a live link to the cafe so you can still wear your costume and join in.
Me: Oh. What about you?
Nell: I shall be there, of course, but I’m not going to parade down the streets with the others.
Me: Probably wise.
Nell: David will lead the procession followed by Gladys, Rita and the dancing chihuahuas. The Dartmouth dachshunds are still a question mark as one of them slipped a disc.
Me: Oh dear.
Nell: We have the Beagle brass band from Buckfastleigh and Malcolm has organised a flamboyance of flamingos led by Count Bingo on the steel drums.
Me: Gosh.
Nell: Yes. I was surprised when Count Bingo agreed but he is quite taken with Gladys, apparently.
Me: It sounds amazing.
Nell: I am quietly confident.
Me: About my costume though, Nell.
Nell: Don’t argue. If I can wear it then so can you.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
