Nell: I’m very unhappy with you.
Me: Yes, I know you are.
Nell: Making people think I was involved in the feather incident when I was just helping Kev with his investigation.
Me: Well, I apologise but you have to admit that it looked very iffy.
Nell: Iffy is not a word and neither is sloodgy by the way.
Me: But sloodgy is one of my favourite words.
Nell: I know.
Me: It’s exactly what the lanes are like when they get all wet and muddy, or the way custard can be if it’s a bit too thick.
Nell: Yes, I know but it’s still a made up word.
Me: Talking of making up, is Alejandro still at war with Count Bingo Flamingo?
Nell: Yes. He can’t accept Gladys’s decision to enter the dance contest with Count Bingo.
Me: But he’s the better dancer.
Nell: Yes, but Alejandro Tries Hard.
Me: You don’t get points for that.
Nell: Well, you should. I have brought the puppies up to value the importance of Trying Hard. David, is a shining example.
Me: Did you taste one of his scones?
Nell: I did. Hard doesn’t even come close. I nearly broke my tooth.
Me: They went a bit wrong.
Nell: It’s the thought that counts.
Me: Not if you have to eat it.
Nell: True. David is not a natural cook.
Me: But he’s an excellent eater.
Nell: Anyway, I understand Alejandro’s disappointment. He’s very light on his feet for an alpaca.
Me: The Argentine tango doesn’t really work with four legs.
Nell: Personally, I would favour an alpaca over a flamingo if I was looking for a South American cowboy.
Me: And are you?
Nell: No. I’m referring to a gaucho. They dance the Argentine tango. Do keep up.
Me: Yes. Sorry.