Picking up my new Meyrowitz reading glasses the other day, I notice, on the left arm, the word "Finch" carved into the resin in white lettering. And though I didn't ask Shiels at the fine eyeglass shop in Royal Arcade for this aide memoire (I am not quite at that age yet), and though I know my glasses are hand-made, I am surprised at the subtle addition - if not surprised by how pleased I am.

You see, I have a great and somewhat unabashed affection for personalised monogramming. If you are tempted to stop reading now, I wouldn't blame you. I just cannot seem to help myself.