Nell: Talk about dramatic entrances.
Me: What happened?
Nell: There I was in the hotel enjoying my toast and marmalade when Dorothy said, ‘Is that Harriet?’ and handed me her binoculars.
Me: Dorothy has binoculars?
Nell: Never without them. Anyway, sure enough it was Harriet swimming through the sea scattering Beefies on her way.
Me: Darling Harriet is such a strong swimmer.
Nell: She came bounding through the seaweed straight into the hotel restaurant.
Me: Oh dear.
Nell: We were towelling her dry when we saw the speed boat arrive with Knitwear Wolf at the helm.
Me: Very James Bond.
Nell: Charlie was my James Bond. Don’t forget that.
Me: No. But I bet he looked dashing.
Nell: He did rather, although shouting, ‘Nelly, I’m here!’ was a little unnecessary.
Me; What about my Big Brave Beautiful Boy? Wasn’t he on the boat?
Nell: Boats aren’t enough for Poppy and David.
Me: What do you mean?
Nell: Dorothy and I were just organising some more toast and tea for Harriet when we heard the sound of a helicopter.
Me: Was it one of those VIP guests arriving?
Nell: No, it was David being lowered onto the terrace.
Me: How exciting. Did you fly back with him?
Nell: Certainly not. As I said to Dorothy, ‘Nobody is going to winch me up into that thing, thank you very much. I’m making my own way home.’
Me: I hope Dave had some bacon before he left. It was awfully brave of him to jump out of a helicopter.
Nell: He didn’t jump, he was lowered. But yes, David enjoyed a number of bacon sandwiches and several boiled eggs.
Me: What about Poppy?
Nell: She flew home. There’s nowhere to land on the island and she had lunch to prepare.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
