—And remember to feed the dog.

“You’ve already been fed.”

—No way! When did that happen?

“About an hour ago.”

—Surely you jest.

“I can’t believe you’re actually trying this gambit.”

—Nothing ventured . . . I suppose . . .

“You know, I’ve noticed that you lick yourself a lot.”

—So?

“Isn’t that kind of cat-like? All that tongue-grooming?

— . . .

“Well?”

—Well what?

“Aren’t you going to answer me?”

—About what?

“Being cat-like, the licking of your paws and such. You’re just going to ignore me?”

—What?