Mummy. The actor who plays Professor Snape – is he really that nasty in real life?
Ha, no – I think he’s probably a really nice person – and a terrific actor.
He’s very, very convincing. [A pause] Is he always the villain in movies?
Sometimes, but in Sense & Sensibility, he plays Colonel Brandon, the most honourable man in the story.
Tell me about Colonel Brandon? Tell me the story…
[I do]
[Heaves a big sigh] Mummy, that sounds like such a great story. I know you said you would read these books to me when I’m older… but can we read this one first?
Whither Earthlings 