Me: Look at The Boys sharing a bed. Aren’t they adorable?
Nell: Harriet and I are sharing a bed.
Me: It’s different. Look at those sweet little faces. You wouldn’t think they were trained killers, would you?
Nell: That’s because they’re not. They’re Miss Maple’s assistants and are here to find A Friend.
Me: I thought they were here to unmask the villain who stole the jewellery.
Nell: Good grief. That’s what I just said.
Me: I see. Talking of friends, Poppy’s taken a shine to Leo. She’s making him Eggs Benedict for breakfast.
Nell: Which one’s Leo?
Me: The big colourful softy.
Nell: He’s a dachshund.
Me: The bigger of the two then. Hope is small and feisty.
Nell: Rather like Poppy and Miss Maple. Now, preparations for the Birthday Ball on Saturday are coming along well.
Me: Good.
Nell: The Cat says you were a little difficult about your ballgown.
Me: I’m too old and round for sequins, Nell. A simple dress will do.
Nell: You’re the guest of honour. Stop arguing and go with the flow.
Me: I don’t see you in sequins.
Nell: Of course not. The mere idea. The men and Poppy will be in top hats and tails.
Me: Dave loves a top hat. Darling Big Brave Beautiful Boy.
Nell: You’ll be pleased to hear that David will be performing with Gladys and the llamas.
Me: Are the llamas wearing top hats?
Nell: Don’t be silly. They’ll be in sparkly catsuits and heels. Do keep up.
Me: I hope my sisters will be okay with all this. They think they’re coming to dinner.
Nell: They’ll be fine. The Cat has a selection of ballgowns.
Me: Maybe I should warn them.
Nell: You just have. They read your conversations every day.
Me: Oh yes. Sorry.
