Me: Have you ordered croissants again?
Nell: Of course not.
Me: Why is Harriet looking concerned?
Nell: I have no idea but it’s got nothing to do with French pastries.
Me: Has Poppy forgiven you?
Nell: My toast was a little burnt this morning so I’m not sure I’m completely out of the woods yet.
Me: Did she serve it on her sword?
Nell: Yes.
Me: Oh dear. At least she’s back in the kitchen.
Nell: David gave her one of his pleading looks.
Me: He’s good at those. Darling Big Brave Beautiful Boy.
Nell: She knows he needs to keep his strength up before tomorrow’s performance on the island.
Me: Is The Great Barberino still planning to sail over there on Lionel King’s boat?
Nell: We all are.
Me: No, we aren’t, Nell. If you insist on going then it’s by sea tractor.
Nell: You sound just like Rupert.
Me: Lionel can’t be trusted. You know that.
Nell: And David and The Great Barberino can’t be expected to travel alone.
Me: Dave’s not going with Lionel either. I’m not allowing it.
Nell: I think you’ll find the Mayor of Kingsbridge can make his own decisions.
Me: I don’t care what the Mayor does. Dave isn’t going on that boat.
Nell: Mr Giggles will collect us after lunch and drive us down to the sea.
Me: Do you remember the last time you were driven by that elderly hyena? You nearly missed the King’s Coronation.
Nell: Anyone can lose their way.
Me: You’ve definitely lost your way. I don’t know what it is about Lionel King but you’re not yourself when he’s around.
Nell: Stop being such a fuddy-duddy. Life is for living.
Me: Harriet’s looking worried for a reason, Nell. You’re putting yourself in danger. It won’t do. Sorry.
