Me: There’s been an awful lot of stopping on our walks recently.
Nell: I like to pause now and again.
Me: I know Dave likes to roll in the grass and Harriet is fascinated by insects, but you seem to be demanding a treat.
Nell: You’ve got it all wrong.
Me: Really?
Nell: Kev and I have an agreement and I am simply fulfilling my side of it.
Me: What do you mean?
Nell: He likes me to remind him about the treats in his pocket.
Me: I see.
Nell: They’re easily forgotten.
Me: Not by you.
Nell: Exactly. When I pause, or sit down, Kev knows it’s time.
Me: You do it a lot.
Nell: Needs must.
Me: That’s not an answer.
Nell: I think you’ll find it is. Now, you know you’re flying to Germany on Sunday?
Me: Yes, I do.
Nell: What do you think about a bear flying with you?
Me: I beg your pardon?
Nell: A large brown bear who is an excellent cook and has been missing his home.
Me: Are we talking about Herr Hoffmann?
Nell: Of course we are. How many bears do we know who can cook like he does?
Me: He hasn’t got a ticket.
Nell: All organised. Chris spoke to the airline.
Me: He did?
Nell: Yes.
Me: Do they take bears?
Nell: Not unaccompanied, but as he’s with you, and Chris booked two seats for him, it’s fine.
Me: Is it?
Nell: I’m afraid you’ll have to take the aisle seat. Herr Hoffmann likes a window.
Me: Where is he staying?
Nell: Probably with friends, but possibly with Alice.
Me: Does she know?
Nell: Of course she does. We wouldn’t organise this without telling her.
Me: You didn’t tell me.
Nell: I’m telling you now.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
