John in Brisbane.

Thank you for your last contribution, I laughed so much it hurts and I am still chuckling.

What Catspaw says about thinking of the right thing to reply, usually too late, reminded me of wish that I used to think would be useful. It was for the ability to stop time, the instant after the original remark was made, to give you all the time in the world to consider your reply. Having then thought of the most brilliant response you could come up with, after consultation with reference books to check facts and quotations, you just click your fingers, time starts again and you deliver your answer...........But then what? I never really thought it through any further, but I suppose it could lead to trouble, couldn't it?

There was one occasion recently, when I did get it SO right at the time and it was an answer I gave to a tele-sales person. Poor soul (Apologies in advance to all who ply this trade). The conversation went something like this.

Salesperson: Hello, I am from ---- ---- and can I ask you just one question?
Me : Yes
Salesperson: Well, ......
Me : That was it....... Goodbye.
Salesperson: BUT!

I suspect that there may now be a change to the opening pitch?