If I ever write a time travel novel, I’ll want to find a place to include this…

Situation: My 21st century protagonist is trying to explain to an 18th century acquaintance why she is working at a menial job that she is obviously too well-educated for.

Protagonist, defensively: “Well I have to do something. Got to keep my cat in kibble.”

Blank stare from the 18th century person.

Protagonist, uncertainly: “You know. I have to earn money so that I can afford to feed my cat.”

18th century person, sympathetically: “Oh. Is she not a good mouser then?”

Protagonist, abashedly: “It’s just an expression.”