Z is silenced, in two ways

Well, the day culminated all right, and I can't tell you about it. I asked the Sage if I could put it on my blog and he said he'd rather not. That took the wind right out of my sails and I wished I hadn't asked. It isn't fair even to hint. Damn. It's good.

But the whole day has been good. The Sage had Success in London and I had a good day in the City. If you are in London right now and have time to spare, hasten to Goldsmiths' Hall for the Fair. It is absolutely wonderful and well worth a visit. I spent two or three hours there and would have appreciated longer. Some beautiful items, individually designed and not overpriced by any means. If it were not for the fact that we have spent money today, I would have been very tempted, and I will certainly be back another year, preferably with a Sage and his chequebook...

We also had a guided tour round the Mansion House. I can't remember if I've told you that I've been to a couple of banquets there before. I didn't see a thing, however, as I was unborn at the time - in Coronation year, my father's cousin was Lady Mayoress and he and my mother were invited to a couple of doos. Most considerately, the silver-gilt candelabrum given by my great-great-great grandfather was put in front of them. Sadly, although I looked, I didn't see it today.

My voice has gone. Vanished. I am talked out. I had to ask, huskily, Shirley to give the vote of thanks to the organiser of the day.

Then I arrived home, to find a gift waiting for me from Julie in Athens. Thank you so, so much, dearest Julie. It will be listened to first thing tomorrow. I cannot tell you how happy I am.