Me: Have you got a furrowed brow?
Nell: Not particularly.
Me: You look like you have.
Nell: I’m Pondering on something very important. Can’t an animal Ponder in peace around here?
Me: It depends what you’re Pondering on.
Nell: No, it doesn’t.
Me: If you are Pondering on the meaning of life I would love to join you. I have lots of thoughts about that, especially at this time of year.
Nell: I’m not.
Me: Are you Pondering on whether to have a second breakfast? Dave is always available to discuss options.
Nell: How do you know I’ve had a first breakfast?
Me: It’s Saturday. I smelt the bacon.
Nell: I may have a piece of shortbread with my tea later, but that’s not what I’m thinking about.
Me: Is it a matter of the heart? Only I saw Knitwear Wolf talking to you earlier.
Nell: It has nothing to do with the heart. Rupert and I were discussing outfits, if you must know.
Me: Are you Pondering the advantages of Knitwear over Animal Print then?
Nell: Animal Print?
Me: Tiger stripes can be very attractive.
Nell: Why are you winking? Rupert and I were discussing hats.
Me: Hats?
Nell: Yes. The Daily Growl want to take some publicity shots before the start of Strictly.
Me: Why don’t you ask The Cat?
Nell: Because I’m not sure an ostrich feather, or tiara, is the way I want to go.
Me: They are better than a bobble hat.
Nell: Rupert will be wearing a top hat.
Me: Is he going to be in the photos too?
Nell: Of course. Rupert is one of the professional dancers.
Me: Is he? I didn’t know.
Nell: Rupert’s dancing is renowned. You must have heard of The Wolf of Waltz Street.
Me: I hadn’t. Sorry.
