Me: I’d like to begin by thanking people for their support. I appreciate every single cup of Earl Grey.
Nell: It really makes a difference to our little economy, so please continue to do so if you can.
Me: A sunny day is also something to be thankful for, even when it’s cold and frosty.
Nell: Our friends in the north wouldn’t call this cold.
Me: Probably not.
Nell: Harriet still swam in the river.
Me: She reminds me of an otter when her ears are back.
Nell: Nonsense.
Me: She blends in perfectly with her surroundings. Sometimes it’s hard to see her amongst the leaves.
Nell: That’s because she’s rolling around on her back.
Me: Dave does that too. Darling Big Brave Beautiful Boy.
Nell: Herr Hoffmann wants to know if a pasta bake is acceptable for dinner this evening.
Me: Absolutely. I love pasta.
Nell: It can be eaten in bowls and cooked in the one dish which saves on washing up.
Me: Yes. I heard Manuel was going out so wouldn’t be helping in the kitchen.
Nell: He has an assignation.
Me: What?
Nell: He’s going on a date.
Me: How exciting. Who’s the lucky octopus?
Nell: Barbara from Brixham and she’s a crab.
Me: How did they meet?
Nell: Manuel was out swimming and got his tentacles caught in her claws.
Me: How romantic.
Nell: I think it sounds rather painful.
Me: Was it love at first sight?
Nell: I have no idea but they’ve been texting ever since.
Me: I hope they have a lovely evening.
Nell: Princess has offered the use of her pool.
Me: How kind, although it’s going to take Barbara an awfully long time to walk here. Sideways.
Nell: Manuel has organised a taxi. Do keep up.
Me: Of course. Sorry.
