Me: It was lovely being back at The Cottage Hotel again, wasn’t it?
Nell: Delightful.
Me: The views at Hope Cove are just amazing and they are always so kind and welcoming. The waiter even brought you a bowl of fresh water.
Nell: I asked for Earl Grey.
Me: I know, but I don’t think he heard you.
Nell: Never mind. It was meant well and I appreciated the thought.
Me: Not every dog is as discerning as you, Nell. Dave is happy with builder’s tea.
Nell: David is happy with anything as long as it comes with a bacon sandwich on the side.
Me: Dave knows what he likes. Remember he used to be a food critic.
Nell: Extraordinary. I wonder how that happened.
Me: He’s very open minded when it comes to food. He’ll try anything. Darling Big Brave Beautiful Boy.
Nell: Did Harriet tell you that Sally has been in touch?
Me: No, she didn’t.
Nell: It’s a bank holiday weekend so she is coming down here for a visit.
Me: That’s wonderful news.
Nell: And she’s bringing a friend.
Me: Oh no.
Nell: Why? What’s the problem?
Me: Does Dave know?
Nell: Of course he does.
Me: Is he alright about it?
Nell: Yes. You know how much David loves guests and he doesn’t care who is there as long as he sees Sally.
Me: Well, that’s awfully open minded of him I must say.
Nell: Is it?
Me: Not everyone would welcome a tiger to tea.
Nell: I beg your pardon?
Me: Especially a handsome stranger sort of tiger who loves jazz and dancing cheek to cheek.
Nell: Sally is bringing Roley Moley.
Me: Oh, I see.
Nell: The tiger is coming to lunch on Sunday. It’s heard about Poppy’s roasts.
Me: My mistake. Sorry.
