Category Archives: Uncategorized
New Header Image
Hi, Y’all. I have just changed my header image on the Home Page. I hope you like it. Photo of Corby Nero by kind permission of Bishop’s Park Corvus Corvae Community.
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Words and Civilisation: Yes and No
Rule Number One to be truly English. Banish at once the following two words from your vocabulary: ‘yes’ and ‘no’. They are unsightly, un-English, and compromising. They state an absolute, and that is bad-mannered. After all, who gives you the … Continue reading
Posted in Uncategorized, Words and Civilisation
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Words and Civilisation: I Tried To Call You
“I tried to call you.” How many times have you heard that one? It is annoying enough when friends say it but when I hear it in a professional context, I have to repress my instinct to pounce and tear … Continue reading
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Odds & Ends: Pay Freely for a Service, Without Expectations
This is now a regular occurrence. I am at the supermarket, queuing to pay. A member of staff rushes towards me. His tone is cheerful, as though he has a special treat in store for me. “Would you like to … Continue reading
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Pet Hates: Sharing a Table
You’re meeting a friend you have not seen for a while, for coffee or lunch. The setting must be conducive to a leisurely, free flowing conversation. Without eavesdroppers. You take all the necessary steps beforehand. You arrive at the restaurant … Continue reading
Posted in Pet Hates, Uncategorized
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Words and Civilisation: How Are You?
I would love to hear comments on this, particularly from my non-British subscribers. I met a Russian friend, last week. After the initial greeting and ambicheek kiss, I asked, “How are you?” She told me about the state of her … Continue reading
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Odds & Ends: The Ladies’ Room*
(*See legal disclaimer below) Even in our era – sadly so full of fears and threats – there are few places as scary as the ladies’ room at a ball, or other dressing up social event. In fact, the more … Continue reading
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Double Standards: Supermarket Plastic Bags
“Do you need a bag?” There is a tone of warning in the question. In fact, if you listen closely, you will hear that the stress is on “need” and not “bag”. That is how the cashier signals that the … Continue reading
Posted in Double Standards, Uncategorized
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Words and Civilisation: The Truth About Honesty
Can I be honest? Why are you suddenly looking worried? There, you see, just because I said, “Can I be honest?” you automatically assume I’m about to say something negative; or at least something you think I think you won’t … Continue reading
Posted in Uncategorized, Words and Civilisation
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Scribe Doll 