Me: Is there some sort of party going on outside?
Nell: It’s Babycakes Gillespie and the llamas. They’re celebrating 4th July.
Me: I know Babycakes is from the United States but the llamas aren’t.
Nell: Llamas don’t care about that. They just love celebrating and he can’t party on his own.
Me: True. How Harriet can sleep through it all is beyond me.
Nell: She was up late zooming with Sally and before you ask me, I don’t know why.
Me: You’re not going to believe this.
Nell: That’s my line.
Me: The Great Barberino is riding around the field on Beauregard’s back.
Nell: I’m not surprised. It turns out that wild tigers can be cuddled.
Me: Beauregard didn’t mind?
Nell: No. After a little hesitation he decided he rather liked Oscar Barberino.
Me: Gosh.
Nell: So much so that he spent the night in the Tree House with Mrs King and little Roary.
Me: Roary isn’t very little anymore.
Nell: No. Lion cubs have a tendency to grow.
Me: I wonder what The Great Barberino thought when he woke up next to a tiger and two lions?
Nell: Don’t forget Oliver the opossum.
Me: Oh yes. I hope your friend doesn’t spoil things.
Nell: Dorothy has never been in a tree house in her life.
Me: I’m talking about that wretched lion.
Nell: Lionel King is a changed animal. He’s even offered to take The Great Barberino for a sail around the island.
Me: Oscar is afraid of water.
Nell: He can wear a life jacket.
Me: And he can bring Beauregard.
Nell: That’s a terrible idea. You know Beauregard and Lionel are arch enemies.
Me: Now they’re playing toss the bagel.
Nell: Over a stick?
Me: No. Into the mouth. Dave’s joining in.
Nell: Good grief.
Me: Sorry.
