Here's to What Was

Loyal reader: I have decided to retire from active duty. After several years of fun, this will be the last post for The Tweed Pig. There's a list a mile long of things I haven't yet covered, but my heart is elsewhere. What larks we had in that time, eh?

But nothing lasts really. Neither happiness nor despair. Not even life lasts very long.

I know it's over

I won't fill this final post with sentimental salad, but I would like to thank you all for reading, contributing, correcting and advising over the years.

Special thanks to the generosity and support of the following:

• The Pin-ups
• Cordings
• Penelope Cream
• Equus Leather
• Alan Paine
• Bond & Knight
• Peckham Rye
• Gizzi Leather
• Daniel Hanson
• Peter Christian
• Swim & Co.
• Corgi Hosiery
• Kent Brushes
• Floris
• Wilde & Harte
• Rampley & Co.
• Robert Keyte
• Locharron of Scotland
• Oliver Brown
• Sharp & Dapper
• British Vintage Boxing
• BeauFort London
• Santamaria Shirtmakers
• An English Hand
• The New English

They are all fine businesses with good people and worthy of your wholehearted patronage.

Me, I disconnect from you

What next? I'm torn between plotting to overthrow the government or spending more time pottering in the garden. I certainly plan to be more disconnected.

Never say more than necessary, so that's about it. I offer a heartfelt and gracious handshake.

Raised glass

Here's to what was.

Orpheus Britannicus

I couldn't wind up this operation without indulging in a little music from the original Orpheus Britannicus, Henry Purcell. The absolutely definitive version of Dido's lament by Dame Janet Baker has sat on my 'to promote' list forever and offers a nicely dramatic send-off.

Remember me, but, ah, forget my fate.