Me: My Big Brave Beautiful Boy.
Nell: I thought you’d like a photo of him. I know today is a difficult day.
Me: Why is he sticking his tongue out?
Nell: He had marmite on his toast this morning.
Me: He loves marmite.
Nell: Well, he won’t be getting any more if he doesn’t learn some manners.
Me: What did he do?
Nell: He licked the marmite off Harriet’s toast when she wasn’t looking.
Me: By mistake?
Nell: So he says. Harriet is absolutely furious. I told him if he thinks he can lick the jam off the Queen’s scones then he’s got another think coming.
Me: How do you know you’re getting scones?
Nell: Poppy is making her some. She thought the Queen might appreciate it. She is bringing homemade strawberry jam, too, and Devonshire clotted cream.
Me: The Queen will love that.
Nell: Gladys wants to express her admiration for her in interpretive dance but it isn’t really everyone’s cup of tea.
Me: No.
Nell: And the castanets are dreadfully loud. They even woke Mutley.
Me: Gosh.
Nell: Now, how was your journey?
Me: Very long. A train had derailed, so I had to travel a lot of the way by bus. It took me over 8 hours to get here.
Nell: At least you’re there now.
Me: It’s strange to be back on the island. So many memories, Nell.
Nell: Life is made of memories. Happy and sad. Try and embrace them.
Me: I’m going to go for a walk on the beach before the funeral.
Nell: That’s an excellent idea. You won’t be wearing your wellington boots, though, so keep out of the sea as you don’t want wet feet.
Me: How will I manage without you?
Nell: I’m always with you. Remember?
Me: Yes. Sorry.
