Francis made a gesture that meant I’m done and Chéri nodded, then they didn’t understand what Francis was saying, except for “food” and “Mrs Higgins” and nodded. Chéri went where food was, no matter what.

“Church good?” My dear fellow, how is life treating you these days? Are you finding yourself quite comfortable with your current employer? Was too complicated for him. “Père good?” This was probably less clear.