Slip into something more comfortable
ISYMPATHISE with J. B. of Derbyshire’s dilemma on whether her retired husband should buy his first suit to comply with Cunard’s dress regulations (Oh, the agony!, January 12). Last summer, I went to a dear friend’s funeral on a scorching hot day. Ancient men had climbed into their suits, ranging from linen to Himalayan weight. However, one chap was as cool as a cucumber. He wore battered sandals, old shorts and a faded brown T-shirt with ‘Don’t kill squid’ on the chest at a jaunty angle. It is possible that this was an in-joke, as Mickey had a good sense of humour. Why should J. B.’s husband buy a suit? He should simply claim a medical exemption if challenged by Cunard’s suit police. That usually works. Comfort and cheerfulness are all.
Andrew White, Hampshire