Vashti, you've made the trip for me. Silks! Satins! Eunuchs waiting on me hand and foot! (or even if not, it's much nicer than steerage!)

Never mind about Studdeley. He'll be far happier with the Royal menagerie; I'm sure the fare is far superior. And as for your kindness, how can I thank you?

Hmmm, DO try some of these wonderful little toasted green leafy things. Coca leaves? Just a little tingling on the tongue, but they're better salted. I'm beginning to like this food more and more - more green potatoes, please! And what ARE those lovely little things that look like fricaseed rabbits?