Nell: That’s a photo of my sister Maisie, David and Harriet’s mother, with their sister Mist.
Me: Yes, I just found it.
Nell: Is that my other sister Daisy holding that disreputable toy?
Me: Yes. You two look awfully alike.
Nell: I haven’t seen her for ages.
Me: I remember when Daisy came to visit us when you were pups. You knew who she was immediately.
Nell: Of course I did. You don’t forget your own sister.
Me: When I first met you, Nell, you were with Daisy and Maisie. I had to choose one of you. What if I had chosen one of them?
Nell: That was never happening and I chose you, by the way.
Me: Yes.
Nell: Anyway, I wouldn’t show David and Harriet that photo of their mother and sister. It might make them sad.
Me: I hope it hasn’t made you sad, Nell.
Nell: No. It is lovely to see my sisters again but I have my own family now.
Me: Which seems to be growing again, by the way.
Nell: Are you talking about the reindeer in The Barn?
Me: I am.
Nell: They’re just visiting Olive the Other Reindeer. They need to coordinate their diaries. It’s a busy time of year.
Me: Well, they’ve eaten all the scones.
Nell: Poppy is aware. She and Malcolm are making a fresh batch before this afternoon’s rehearsal.
Me: What about a bowl of scones on stage so the actors can have one whenever needed?
Nell: I presume you’re suggesting a Talking Bowl here.
Me: Now, that’s an idea. The Talking Bowl could say ‘Do take a scone. Would you like jam? Or cream? Or both? Please help yourself.’
Nell: You’ve been practising that, haven’t you?
Me: Maybe.
Nell: You’re not going on stage.
Me: Ok. Sorry.
