Me: Look at you yawning away.
Nell: It is early morning.
Me: I know but I need to write before I leave for the airport.
Nell: Well, don’t expect any sage advice from me. I haven’t even had a cup of Earl Grey yet.
Me: I’m having porridge. It always sets me up for the day. Would you like some?
Nell: Do I look like a Highland Terrier? I shall have toast and marmalade as usual.
Me: It’s awfully windy out there. I hope Alice and Jonathan Sky don’t have a bumpy flight from Berlin.
Nell: How many times do I have to tell you not to worry about things that haven’t even happened?
Me: I know.
Nell: Have you packed everything you need?
Me: Yes. We are only visiting my sister for one night so I don’t need much.
Nell: Now drive carefully and stop on the way, please. You have plenty of time. Poppy has packed you a picnic.
Me: I’m so excited, Nell.
Nell: Yes. The twins were completely beside themselves yesterday evening. Harriet went a little mad and tucked in her tail and ran up and down the stairs.
Me: Harriet adores Jonathan.
Nell: We all do but we must show a sense of decorum. One can’t throw caution to the wind and start running everywhere. Whatever next?
Me: Where are the twins?
Nell: Sleeping. They’ll wake as soon as Poppy brings in their dippy eggs and soldiers.
Me: Yes.
Nell: Now, finish your porridge and get yourself ready and don’t worry about us. I have everything under control and we will all be waiting for you to bring them home tomorrow.
Me: Yes.
Nell: Don’t post a photo of Naughty Nigel on your bed again, please. David finds it awfully distressing as he is your best boy.
Me: Yes, sorry.
