I took advantage of the silence. “Er, if I could have everyone’s attention? I will not detain you long, but I propose on this occasion to feel compelled to say a few auspicious words.” Whistles from those who had heard this before from Howard. (Everyone.) “I must first thank Joe and Belinda for having us in these wonderful auspices and Belinda and Cal, well, everybody, but especially Belinda and Cal, for the auspicious lunch. There is one other present I’d like for everyone to have. I’ve got this around my neck. Daniel and Brendon gave it to me. It’s a maniah and it’s supposed to be a protective spirit. Anyway, it’s totally worked for me, because as soon as I wore it I met Cal, and then everybody who’s come into that picture. Now each of these spirits looks out for each other, but you can’t give one to yourself and I’d really like all of you to have one, because, well, I suppose technically you’re not my family but…” Inevitably I started to tear up again, but Cal saved me by nearly choking on one of his mince pies.