Me: I’m not sure if I’m cut out to play a Talking Bowl. I don’t have the necessary oomph.
Nell: Oh for Goodness Sake. When did a Talking Bowl need oomph and what is oomph, anyway?
Me: You know. Va va voom.
Nell: I certainly do not. What has brought this on?
Me: Harriet yawned when I was practising my lines.
Nell: She was up early rehearsing her sword fight with Poppy, so she’s probably genuinely tired.
Me: Sword fight? Gosh. I wish I had a sword fight.
Nell: You do not. Especially with Poppy. She’s in a fighting mood this morning. She served David’s eggs devilled, instead of dippy.
Me: Gosh.
Nell: As I said to The Cat, ‘Nobody likes too much spice on a Monday morning. ‘
Me: No.
Nell: David had to have two ice creams to take the taste away.
Me: I don’t think ice creams are meant for breakfast, Nell. Couldn’t he have had a quick lassi?
Nell: Don’t be silly. I worry about you sometimes. How on earth would a long haired collie help?
Me: It’s an Indian yoghurt based drink.
Nell: Why didn’t you say so? Manuel loves a devilled egg, by the way. Gobbled them up.
Me: He’s from Barcelona.
Nell: Yes, of course. I’m afraid the spice theme is continuing. Poppy’s cooking chilli con carne for dinner.
Me: I wonder why?
Nell: It’s Alejandro’s turn to choose the menu.
Me: Oh, I thought Poppy might be one of those method actors who stay in their role all the time, so she’s serving fiery food.
Nell: I certainly hope not. If she offers you an apple, make sure you refuse.
Me: Because I’ll fall into a deep sleep?
Nell: No, because Malcolm needs the apples to make a pie.
Me: I see. Sorry.
