Sunday was like any other day before travelling.

Up at 7,a dash to get a newspaper and coffe,then  going through the "do
list" and putting the finishing touches to the little jobs that can and must be done  before travelling only.The packing was left for the afternoon.And then I discovered a little puddle on the kitchen surface.Have I spilled something?I would have wiped it immesiately,I was reasoning with myself.It did not take me longer than 5 seconds to know that the water could only have come from above.And it did, from the utility room.The washing machine hose sprang a leak just where it joined the water pipe.It was a Sunday and the next day I was going on a 24 night cruise.Luckily I was able to turn off the supply.

Monday morning I  hailed a taxi to take me to Waterloo.The driver said the Westminster bridge was off bounds,we had to take the Lambeth bridge.This,I later found out,was not true,and needlessly added at least half an hour to the ride and at least £10.I missed the 11.35 train,the next train was  at 12.35.For just over an hour we were told several times we were about to depart. Then were asked  to leave the train,it was cancelled.I ran towards the taxi rank and asked at least 3 drivers to please take me to Southampton.All 3 wise men got out of their cabs and consulted between themselves.Then they gave me the news-if one  WAS to take me, it would cost £250.Only neither of them was going to.I have found from experience  that I work best with my back to the wall.Please take me home to Notting Hill I reluctantly asked the first Ever Ready  in line. Because that is the way it is done.The biggest idiot of them all was taking me.Finishing his sandwich,taking his phone calls while driving.Please do not do that,I said,it is illegal and dangerous.We are not going anywhere,answered he,look at the traffic.I made a call to the taxi firm I use and was sent a cab to come and pick me up at home at 14.30.As always,as all drivers from this excellent firm,he was on the dot.Just after 4 we were at the Mayflower terminal.It cost me £140.The phone number of the taxi firm is 0207  221 3888.