Me: Why is Dave sitting outside on his own?
Nell: He isn’t. He’s talking politics with Walter Pigeon.
Me: With Walter?
Nell: Yes. Walter has a column in the Pigeon Post. He’s most knowledgeable.
Me: I’ve never seen the Pigeon Post.
Nell: You’re not a pigeon.
Me: True.
Nell: The Beefies are roving reporters.
Me: Seriously?
Nell: They cover the lighter side. Gossip and entertainment in the bird world.
Me: The bird world?
Nell: You’re doing that repeating thing again.
Me: There’s so much going on I don’t know about.
Nell: Yes, Sherlock Martin. There is.
Me: Why is Dave talking to Walter? He isn’t a bird.
Nell: No, but with the election coming up David is wondering whether to throw his collar into the ring.
Me: He isn’t wearing a collar.
Nell: It’s a metaphorical collar. Do keep up.
Me: Do you mean Dave’s considering standing as an MP?
Nell: Maybe.
Me: Doesn’t he have enough in his bowl being Mayor of Kingsbridge?
Nell: That’s exactly what I said to my friend Dorothy.
Me: I think he should steer clear of politics.
Nell: I agree.
Me: You, on the other hand, would be perfect as PM.
Nell: Me?
Me: I’d vote for you every time.
Nell: Most kind, but I shan’t be standing. I have more than enough on my paws running this place.
Me: That’s a shame.
Nell: Especially when certain people are swanning off to foreign climes.
Me: I’m not swanning anywhere. I’m going to see the family in Germany.
Nell: Same thing.
Me: I’ll be back before you know it.
Nell: You’d better be.
Me: I’ll miss you too, Nell.
Nell: Let me finish my hot buttered toast and marmalade and have another cup of Earl Grey before you start getting emotional, please.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
