The last time I wrote this column I was curled under a duvet, flu in full blast, feeling distinctly sorry for myself. But a week is a long time, not just in politics, as seven days later I write this from the Brazilian rainforest. I’m feeling euphoric as today we braved lush vegetation, traversed rivers in torrent, clambered up a sheer rockface and defied the advice of our guide, who suggested we should not try to make it to a magical waterfall. The sun cascaded down for the first time and I heroically declined our guide’s offer of a life jacket (had he not just witnessed me beating the odds to reach such a spot of natural beauty?). We bathed in the natural swimming pool at the base of the waterfall, enjoyed the lack of BlackBerry reception and celebrated the glory of nature.

But it has been a bumpy path getting here. While recovering back in the UK, I was also working hard to put my house in order. The Thesp had been delegated to look after existing clients and Natasha to make sure he does so in an appropriate manner – no breaking into song or long lunches. The Thesp and La Barracuda, our high-rolling South American client, have become quite firm friends, as The Thesp searches for her £10m casa.