Captain Oates

More about the Leach dynasty, for those who are interested.

David Leach I thought he had gone long ago! The next generation is still potting and well worth a visit if you are ever in the area.

...same to you! Rikki Fulton was a great laugh and would have loved this forum, probably. Cowboy Ronnie is correct about the weather (most of the time), the football (most of the time) and the bands (quite a lot of the time). But there is plenty left for the rest of us who can appreciate the real assets of Scotland (including Rikki Fulton). Come on now, it's not that big a place. If they all knew the truth, there would be no room left for the locals!

*******elle pope

"All good things must come to an end..."

Flu-like symptoms versus massive heart attack???

yuk! ...if you could believe it.

I have not found the French to be unduly arrogant; they are certainly less so than many British! But it was a French waiter who upset you. Now that's a different matter. There is a certain tradition/style in some Parisian restaurants (more expensive ones) - the waiters are rude. It is part of the act! If you are not familiar with a nation's ways - stay cool - observe - learn. The French are (in my experience) extremely French and should be valued highly for that attribute. No-one else can do it better!

Robin Nedwell died 2nd February 1999 as a result of a heart attack a couple of days after falling from a ladder. Aged 52, if my sums are correct.

...and then there is the "divided by a common language" dilemma, which really confuses the issue.

I would like to exclude Handkäs from my above approval of the Germans and Germany.

Judging by the opinions expressed by several contributers, in various threads, there are a number of English (English speakers) who speek not English to the satisfacion of all the others. English is that sort of language. There are just so many ways of saying things that not everyone can feel completely comfortable with everyone else's use of their versatile language. One of the many very practical things about Germans is that a significant number of them can understand English. If English speakers could reciprocate, perhaps we might all live fuller and happier lives. Do any native French/Dutch/German/ Tongan/other language speakers agree that to know a foreign language is an indispensible aid to undertanding a foreign culture? And does this also apply between the many international versions of English? I have not heard any British politicians attempting German - perhaps someone can let me know if G Bush junior has a go... then the Brits might try! But I don't suppose he'll do it, more's the pity. The Germans are OK.

The phrase "King of the Belgians" indicates that the kingdom is linked to the people of Belgium rather than to a particular territory. There have been Kings of the Scots, the French, the Hellenes, and (according to some authorities) the Jews.

Stick with William Hague - one of the Tories' better contributions to the affray. He even has the looks! (when viewed on the radio)

....so I forgot to log in. I try not to think about logs, these days.

At this stage in the proceedings I have an uncontrollable urge to quote the signature on Typhoid Harry's profile. Can't think why.....? "Just think how stupid the average people you meet are, and then realize, half of them are more stupid than that!" - George Carllin.

Indeed; and will no doubt be fondly remembered for gaining 4 points for Luxembourg, finishing in 21st place in the 1987 Eurovision Song Contest. But who would have guessed that Johnny Hallyday is Belgian??

Some famous (living) Belgians: - Eddie Merckx - b. 17 june 1945 - cyclist - Jackie Ickx - b. 1 Jan 1945 - racing driver - Marc Dutroux - b. 6 nov 1956 - psychopath/serial killer - Dr Evil (aka Dougie Powers) ...ok, that's only three.

...just been catching up after a few days in (topically) Portugal. (By the way, LPIII, they make excellent tea there.) Has eileen been watching this movie? I remember seeing part of it on telly as a child. It is probably the only time I had heard of Sister Lucia until I met her on the DL. Lucia of Sicily is a much better-known namesake, but long-gone and therefore only of academic interest to this forum.

Yippeee !! It's half-term, so I'm making my escape.

It's easier if you look in the "who's not here" thread. If they're not there, then they're not here, ...but for anyone who wants to chat with someone who is here, this is what I meant. I hope I haven't broken any rules by quoting from a different thread.

Look in the "Who is Here?" thread for some clues.

Meet Mrs Trellis

I'm Sorry He Hasn't A Clue...