Nell: I was pleased with David on the beach today.
Me: Why?
Nell: He was quietly Marvellous and looked to me for guidance.
Me: That’s good.
Nell: Harriet, however, was wildly Marvellous. Rushing around and jumping in the air.
Me: Oh dear. But she does love the sea. She missed it so much when she hurt her leg.
Nell: We all love the sea. Well, Poppy can be conflicted. She prefers to keep her fur dry.
Me: Mutley enjoyed his paddle.
Nell: He did and he bumped into Bob which was a nice surprise.
Me: Do I know Bob?
Nell: He’s a retired Border Terrier. Ex services.
Me: Does he have a brother called Barney?
Nell: I don’t think so.
Me: Only Barney who stole your ball at Hope Cove was a Border Terrier.
Nell: Honestly, I despair of you sometimes. Do you think we are all related? Is that long legged Labrador over there my cousin?
Me: I doubt it, if it has long legs.
Nell: I shall ignore that comment. Poppy and I have agreed to go second, by the way.
Me: When?
Nell: At the vet’s this afternoon. Kev said he is taking us in to the vet in batches while you stay in the waiting room with the others.
Me: Did he?
Nell: Yes. You are awful with needles. Poppy and I decided it wouldn’t be fair for the puppies to hear our cries of pain knowing they have to go in next, so we will let them go first.
Me: Cries of pain? You hardly noticed the injection last time.
Nell: If that’s what you prefer to think it’s fine with me.
Me: But you ate a treat and licked his hand.
Nell: A Labrador never refuses a treat and always shows thanks. You know that.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
