Dear Mary…
Q. I am a picture framer. The other day I drove up to London to drop off a picture at the house of a client. While I was there, I asked if I could use the loo. Once inside I saw that there were some fairly nasty ‘marks’ in the lavatory itself. For my own purposes it was not necessary to make any contact with the lavatory bowl, so I settled myself swiftly and turned to walk out. As I opened the door I found another man waiting to come in. I did not like to insult my client by making any remark exculpating myself from the mess within, but neither did I wish this man to think that I was responsible for having left it in that state. I am still worrying about this two weeks later. What should I have said or done, Mary?
P.E., Pewsey, Wiltshire
A. This is a notorious problem. On finding lavatories in disarray one should ideally humble oneself and use the brush usually provided. Indeed there is no rule against carrying a brush at all times to be prepared for such eventualities. However, those without the stomach for such a charitable act should discreetly convey their innocence by saying to the would-be incomer, ‘Oh, did you want to use the loo? So did I — but I think I’ll wait till later.’
Q. I was delighted to read your reference to my company with regard to wedding presents for mature couples. Unfortunately, the wrong telephone number was published. It is 01342 823123 and our website remains www.weddinggardencompany.co.uk.
K.C., Forest Row, East Sussex
A. I am happy to set the record straight and remind readers looking for presents for mature couples who ‘have everything’ that you can never have enough plants or trees.
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in