Madam, - I wished "Happy Christmas" to our painter as he packed up his van after painting our windows. He looked a little bemused. I had just returned from the supermarket where mince pies were on sale with the "sell by" date of November 11th. Why not celebrate now and get it over with? - Yours, etc.,
XENIA MEATH, Killruddery House, Bray, Co Wicklow.