Me: So, we’re back on the dog beach again.
Nell: Yes, until October. It is actually called River Beach and is just around the corner from our usual one.
Me: I know and the walk there is really lovely.
Nell: I don’t like the steps down to the beach.
Me: They are a little awkward.
Nell: But swimming is more convenient.
Me: Yes, I might join you all soon. It’s a shame Dave and Poppy have to be on a lead but at least Dave can still swim alongside Harriet.
Nell: David forgets about the rules and runs round to the No Dogs Allowed side. We cannot allow him to risk prosecution.
Me: No. That doesn’t even bear thinking about. My darling Big Brave Beautiful Boy behind bars.
Nell: I believe we are talking fines here not prison sentences.
Me: It’s bad enough.
Nell: I agree. Poppy refuses to conform, of course. She is completely defiant.
Me: She certainly doesn’t like being told what to do. John the Doberman was in awful trouble when he suggested crumpets as an alternative to scones.
Nell: Crumpets? You don’t eat crumpets in May.
Me: Some people do.
Nell: Crumpets are for the colder months. Everyone knows that.
Me: A toasted crumpet with lots of butter after a swim in the sea is just the thing.
Nell: Don’t let Poppy catch you.
Me: I won’t. She gave John really short shrift.
Nell: I can imagine.
Me: Robin says the magpies are being an awful nuisance stealing the small birds’ food.
Nell: That’s magpies for you. They have notions of grandeur. I’ve told you this before.
Me: We have to salute them, Nell, or we risk bad luck.
Nell: A simple nod will suffice. They are magpies not major generals.
Me: Yes. You’re right. Sorry.
