Me: Darling Harriet is exhausted.
Nell: She was playing with Roary until late yesterday. Lion cubs are rather demanding.
Me: I was only just saying to Robin that Roary is keeping us all busy.
Nell: I notice you included Robin in our conversation today.
Me: I thought people might enjoy a little birdsong on a Sunday morning. I know I do.
Nell: And what about the Welsh corgi choir?
Me: What do you mean?
Nell: Don’t you think they deserve a mention after all that rehearsing and standing in a wet field in nothing but Wellington boots and sou’westers?
Me: Of course they do.
Nell: And Gladys and the llamas tirelessly gliding away and Poppy slaving over our Sunday roast?
Me: I don’t know why you’re so jealous of my friendship with Rob. It doesn’t affect my feelings about you, or any of the others.
Nell: I don’t like the way you confide in him. Every day I hear you outside calling, ‘Rob, Rob’ and then squealing with joy when he arrives.
Me: I’m just pleased to see him. I think it’s his red breast. It’s so cheerful.
Nell: You never squeal when you see me. Maybe I should wear a red collar?
Me: Now that’s nonsense, Nell. This morning you barked urgently at 6am and I came down immediately to see if you needed me.
Nell: Yes, that was extremely gratifying.
Me: You didn’t actually need me for anything though, did you? Apart from some cuddles.
Nell: I like to keep you on your toes.
Me: You mean everything to me, Nell.
Nell: And you to me. Would you care to join me by the fire for a cup of Earl Grey?
Me: Very much.
Nell: Robin is welcome to sing.
Me: Good.
Nell: From outside.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
