Me: Harriet seems awfully happy at the moment.
Nell: She’s just been for a swim and Bumper’s still here.
Me: I’ve had a thought about Bumper.
Nell: The field has certainly never been tidier.
Me: Even the Beefies are wearing napkins round their necks.
Nell: The Beefies?
Me: I noticed it this morning when they threw some mackerel at Malcolm. One of them wiped his beak.
Nell: Are you sure they weren’t scarves?
Me: Romeo was wearing that black wig but otherwise they looked like white linen napkins.
Nell: How odd.
Me: I thought Bumper must have spoken to them. He’s very persuasive.
Nell: I know.
Me: Anyway, coming back to my interesting thought about Bumper.
Nell: Must we?
Me: Harriet would love it if he could stick around.
Nell: Do you mean extend his visit?
Me: Yes.
Nell: Tell me more.
Me: What do you think about Bumper applying for stage manager?
Nell: That is an idea.
Me: He’s likeable, organised and not afraid to speak his mind when needed.
Nell: True.
Me: He’s even organised the Beefies.
Nell: Yes. That is impressive.
Me: Why don’t you run it by Snoopy and Lucy on your next zoom call?
Nell: Run it by? What’s the matter with you this morning?
Me: I’m in a doing mood.
Nell: Yes. It isn’t only Harriet who’s happy.
Me: Guess who’s coming to visit us on Monday?
Nell: It’s not that bear, is it?
Me: No, but it’s someone from Germany.
Nell: Who?
Me: Alice. She’s at a conference in Manchester and is going to stay with us afterwards until Thursday.
Nell: That’s wonderful.
Me: I know.
Nell: Why am I only hearing about this now? There’s so much to organise.
Me: Maybe Bumper can help?
Nell: Alice is my girl.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
