Scuba Dancing by Nicola Slade

Author:Nicola Slade [Slade, Nicola]
Language: eng
Format: azw3, epub
Publisher: Endeavour Media
Published: 2019-02-20T16:00:00+00:00

True to her word Delia was ready the next day with a draft of her master plan for what she insisted on calling her “conversazione” to be held on the following Saturday.

‘Here we are.’ She dropped in on Julia just before lunch. ‘I’ve put in my order with Threshers but I suppose you lesser mortals will need to stuff your faces. I’ve done a rough list that shouldn’t tax anyone’s capabilities, see what you think. I mean, I know Jonathan won’t dare to do much in case that vulture of a wife of his cottons on, but I should think he could rise to some packets of salted peanuts and crisps, wouldn’t you? Marek, on the other hand, loves to cook so I’ve suggested he produce something interesting and Polish.

‘I’m working on a rough estimate of about forty people. Yes,’ Julia gasped, ‘I know it sounds a lot but if you count Finn and Charlie there are twelve of us, so if we all invite at least two other guests, and possibly more, there you are.’ She consulted her list. ‘I thought you could rustle up something wholesome and hearty like a couple of enormous shepherd’s pies or lasagnes, just the thing for an autumn evening, don’t you agree? I know we’re past Halloween but maybe somebody could make a pumpkin pie?’

‘Just give everyone a definite dish to make,’ suggested Julia. ‘And tell them how many it has to feed. You’re making things too complicated by letting people choose. I agree about Jonathan, but equally he can afford a catering box of crisps and ditto peanuts. And Marek’s a superb cook, you’re right about him too. He makes a fantastic goulash; I know it’s not strictly speaking Polish, but it’s his party piece. Just don’t insult him by mentioning the cost or he’ll go off into one of his Slav sulks. Tell him you’re relying on him to help out and ask him to cook up enough for forty people – he’ll be thrilled.

‘Let’s have a look at your plan. Hmm, can Ursula cook? Yes, of course she can, she said she can bake, so ask her to make you some apple pies, she’s got apple trees. As long as Henrietta doesn’t take it into her head to interfere, mind you. She seems to be letting Ursula do as she pleases these days, maybe she’s getting senile. Still, long may it last.’

‘I’ve put Rosemary down for a couple of bowls of green salad and French bread,’ Delia pointed to her list. ‘Whatever’s going to happen with Margot, Rosemary won’t want to think about food at present. Have you spoken to her yet?’

‘I rang last night,’ Julia told her. ‘And this morning, twice, but I just got the machine. I thought I’d wander over in a minute and take some of this quiche as an excuse.’

Delia approved this subterfuge and set off on her provisioning mission as Julia picked up her offering and crossed the green to Rosemary’s bungalow.

‘Oh, it’s you,’ was her friend’s ungracious greeting, then she pulled herself together.

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