I was a little disconcerted the other day when I walked into my sale room and there left on the desk was a piece of paper with my name on it, apparently from an enthusiastic supporter who had called in hoping to meet me.

The handwriting read: "Beneath this stone, in virtuous well, Lies all that's left of Phil Serrell.

Few hearts with greater kindness warmed, Few heads with knowledge more informed.

With brilliant wit and humour broad He pleased the Peasant, Squire and Lord.

At length old Death did soon draw near And joined Phil's trade of auctioneer, Made him the lot to practise on, With going, going and anon He knocked him down, so our Phil's gone." * Well, I'm not sure whether to be flattered or greatly concerned by this, but it has left me rather intrigued - and I do hope whoever it was doesn't know something that I don't!

*I will be pleased to acknowledge, at the first opportunity, the author and any copyright holder of this verse, should he/she wish to come forward that is!