I stayed in Hartselle, Alabama, a while ago, and as I left I went to the flower shop on the main street to send my hosts some flowers by way of thanks. Lovely people in the shop, so friendly - as people are in Alabama - but the price seemed outrageous. Can anyone tell me why sending flowers costs so much there? I know I wasn't mistaken because I sent more flowere from elsewhere in Alabama to other hosts a few days later and the price was similar. Is it more expensive in the US than it is in Europe? I must admit that I've not sent flowers from any other place in the States. But I have in Europe.

British florists have their own ways! I make a point of claiming that I shall be at the house of the recipient and of having the receiving florist be aware of that. Then they think I'll be counting the stems and pricing up the resulting order as received by the donee That tends to concentrate their minds wonderfully. Then they have to overcharge some other poor mutt, if that's their practice.

Clever ploy. I'll remember that.