Linda

For the past seven years my friend Bex has listened patiently to tales of our adventures here, having completely mastered the art of never looking bored. When we used to work in the same building, Pou's daily misdemeanour was often a source of amusement. And it helped me to talk about my better life when I was stuck at work in London. Bex is a true pal.

One thing that really tickles her is that we have a cat in our French neighbourhood called Linda. Lately Linda has been hanging out in our street, staring at a stone wall. I even caught her on her hind legs, front paws up in prayer-like stance, slightly crossed eyes riveted to the wall. Linda's quite fearless, as our workmen haven't deterred her, nor has a big barky dog a few doors down. I think she's intently lizard stalking, which has allowed me to take her photograph. Bex, at long last, meet Linda.