Chapter 21 - A Short Break
Idioms
To get back to someone means to talk to them later.
To get the hang of something means to learn how to understand or do something.
To be pushed in at the deep end means to start at a hard/difficult point with no training.
Under the thumb - if you are under the thumb means you are in his/her control.
To jump at the chance - to quickly take the offer/oppurtunity.
- - - - -
Ken and Jean are enjoying a nice cup of tea. Dave has gone out.
I bumped into Andy in the village this morning, and you'll never guess what he told me!
He told you he was taking Sarah to Spain for a long weekend.
How did you know, Jean? Andy told me to keep it under my hat. It was a secret.
So much for Andy's secrets. Sarah phoned me about an hour ago. She told me all about Andy's big secret. And, furthermore, she asked me if we'd like to join them.
Andy asked me the same. I said I would talk to you and get back to him.
No need, Ken. I've already decided. I said we'd love to go.
Well, Jean, you could have asked me. But, nevertheless, you did the right thing. A few days away would be great. And, who's going to look after the farm while we're gone?
Dave and Jane, of course. I think it's high time Jane got a taste of real farm life and all the work that goes with it.
Well, it'll be a bit like being pushed in at the deep end. But, I'm sure Jane will soon get the hang of misting out pigsties and milking the cows. I'm certain she'll take to it all like a duck takes to water.
And, I'M sure the pigs and cows will quickly take to Jane, too.
You're right, Ken. Jane does seem to have a special way with animals.
And, she has a very special way with men, too.
Don't be horrible, Ken.
You should take what I say with a pinch of salt, Jean. But, while we're on the subject, Jean. Baking doesn't seem to be one of Jane's strong points. Maybe you could teach her how to bake a cherry cake before we go, Jean.
No time, Ken. We're leaving at first light tomorrow.
So soon, Jean. Andy never told me that. And, Jean, next time, please ask me what I think of the whole thing!
No need, Ken, you always agree with everything I want. I've got you well trained.
More like under the thumb. And, what about Jane?
All taken care of. Everything's arranged. Jane'll be here in about an hour. She jumped at the chance of being a farmer's wife.
So, is there anything else left for me to do?
Yes, Ken. Just sit down and have a slice of cherry cake.
Questions. Can women keep secrets? Was Ken surprised that Jean knew about Spain? How is Jane going to get a taste of farm life? Does Jane need baking lessons? Is Ken under Jean's thumb? What chance did Jane jump at? What is left for Ken to do?
