Back Home

I have returned from Prague to discover Carstone still standing proudly. No Madereley-like flames licking from its turrets, and everything pretty much as I left it.

Will make sure I post a full report at some point tomorrow.

Last Night I Dreamt.....

Yes, it happens occasionally. It is almost time for this butler to take a holiday. I have been feeling a little run down of late, so it has come at a good time. No doubt Carstone House's proud towers and faux battlements will still be standing when I return. When you work in a house centuries old, for a family centuries old, the sobering thought pops into your head: nobody is indispensible. This place has seen it all before. Just how many butlers have worked in the snug pantry close to the Entrance Hall here I could not say. No doubt Llywelyn would be able to tell me. I am one in a long line, and hopefully I am far from the end of that line.

If you think the above passage is simply me trying to convince myself that all will be well in my absence, you would be right. I always worry so terribly when I am away. I sometimes fear that, one day, on returning to the castle, just before approaching the Lodge Gates, I shall see the towers of Carstone burning in the distance. I am a born worrier. I think that is what makes me a perfectionist and, I hope, a good butler.

Perhaps I should not re-read Rebecca on the plane.

No, no, I am being silly. All will be well. The staff at Carstone are excellent, dependable, and not a Mrs Danvers with a box of matches among them.

Prague is my destination. I shall update you all on my return.

If Carstone remains standing.....

Sigh. There I go again.

All will be well.....and the 1st Footman has an emergency number to reach me, just in case.