Me: It’s Shannon’s birthday today.
Nell: I know. Marvin has been in touch from Toronto. He’s not well.
Me: Oh dear. Poor boy.
Nell: He still wanted me to write a poem for her. Would you like to hear it?
Me: Very much.
Nell: ‘I think you should know
It’s Shannon’s birthday today
And a certain young dog
Has something to say.
He wants me to share
That his name is Marvin
And he appreciates the care
But he’s absolutely starving.
He had a bad tummy
And was put on a diet.
But diets aren’t funny
And he refuses to be quiet.
He needs a quick sandwich
Or a nice piece of cake.
Surely a hot dog
Would not be a mistake?
Birthdays are for celebrating
With the food you adore
With the dogs you have rescued
Who are asking for more.
Please listen to Marvin
Cos he loves you to bits.
You’d make him so happy
With a small steak and chips.’
Me: There’s a lot about food.
Nell: Marvin is very hungry. A small spoonful of rice is not enough.
Me: Well, I’m sure she will love the poem and I hope he feels better very soon.
Nell: Now, I wouldn’t go outside at the moment without a hard hat.
Me: Why?
Nell: The Beefies are very angry about David losing the diamonds.
Me: The diamonds disguised as seashells in a box?
Nell: Yes, they fell into the sea when he crossed over to Burgh Island.
Me: You said Rupert saw Dave cycling down our lane with no baguettes, wearing a feathered hat with a big black bird on it carrying a box of seashells.
Nell: Did I?
Me: Yes.
Nell: Try and forget I said that.
Me: The diamonds are here, aren’t they?
Nell: Quiet.
Me: Sorry.
