Me: I saw you and Dave having a conversation together.
Nell: David did most of the talking. I’m used to that, however.
Me: What do you mean?
Nell: I’m an excellent listener. It comes from years of experience.
Me: If you’re referring to our conversations you give as good as you get.
Nell: Do I, indeed?
Me: Yes.
Nell: Anyway, as David’s aunt it’s my responsibility to give advice as well as listen.
Me: What advice did you give him? Was he worried about another poodle attack?
Nell: He’s a little concerned, but Harriet’s assured him she will be by his side.
Me: I’m always by your side, Nell. If a poodle tries to attack you I will chase it away.
Nell: I can deal with aggressive poodles by myself, thank you. Don’t you worry about that.
Me: It’s still better to have someone fighting your corner.
Nell: You’re not Harriet.
Me: No, but I can be fierce, too, when provoked.
Nell: The mere idea of you throwing yourself at a poodle is not a good one.
Me: My defence would be words rather than deeds.
Nell: You can’t reason with an angry poodle.
Me: Maybe not, but I could say ‘Be off with you! Bad animal!’
Nell: I beg your pardon? What century is this?
Me: And I could shake my head and waggle my finger.
Nell: Stop right now. Let’s please agree that aggressive dogs are best left to me, or Harriet.
Me: You’re an elderly lady, Nell.
Nell: But I’m a distinguished Labrador. Bad animals will listen to me.
Me: I hope you didn’t advise Dave to change his ways. He’s such a gentle Big Brave Beautiful Boy.
Nell: I told David he should leave the fighting to his sister and he wisely agreed.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
