From Fitzroy's Private Diary (Extract 44)

These days, with a lack of supplies, it’s important not to waste food, and there has been much discussion on whether formal evening meals should be shortened. Personally, I am in favour of abandoning the fish course. This is not a thought I am promoting widely, as I realize the fish industry needs our support, but on the whole, when I have been in the middle of nowhere, in danger of my life and foraging for food, I usually end up eating fish. Thus, the white flesh of piscine creatures reminds me of more uncomfortable times - and do not get me started on eating lobster or the like. Honestly, why would anyone eat something that feeds off the seabed, with all the detritus and dead creatures that fall there?

Overall, I am of the opinion that, rather than reduce the number of courses, and foreshorten the conversation and conviviality of dinner companions, portion sizes should be reduced. Many of those who enjoy the luxury of dressing for an evening meal also enjoy the luxury of spending much of their time sitting on their posterior, so such a move would ultimately reduce their girth and give a much-needed boost to their health.

I do very much value eating times. As a very active male, I need my food, but I have also found that having difficult, or important, conversations is eased by the connection provided by breaking bread together. As no-one has yet refused to dine with me, I believe that those to whom I have delivered bad news have overlooked the false intimacy and trust a full stomach can inspire (even Hope and Euphemia, who are often wise to my tricks, have missed this). Certainly, if nothing else, a well-fed person is slower to anger.

When I am not working - which, admittedly, is infrequently - my favourite dining companions are those who can provide me with good, stimulating conversation during dinner, or those who will provide me with good, stimulating activity after dinner.

Often Jack and I dine alone, then go for an evening walk. I find this brings a tranquil end to a busy day, aids ingestion and prompts restful sleep.

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