Coronavirus Chronicle

Self-isolation will be devastating for many people, emotionally and financially. Robert and I are fortunate.

First we have Bertie to take care of and to take on long walks. Secondly, the shops around the tube station sell everything we need and I’m glad that I have always used them so I’m acknowledged as an old customer in two senses. There is a chemist, off licence, convenience store, newsagent, dry cleaner and probably the best butcher in London. Here is what I bought from the butcher this afternoon.

The leg of lamb is butterflied and I kept the bone as a treat for Bertie. The baking potatoes are to go with the leftover cold lamb and the lentils and pimentos likewise. In case there may be shortages in the months ahead, The Wine Society will make an unusually large delivery. The FTWeekend, The Oldie and The Spectator are already delivered and I’m arranging for The Times to be delivered on weekdays. I have asked our cleaner to stand down on full pay, for which he is grateful.

We usually watch one hour of television while we are having dinner but I plan to watch a bit more. I play backgammon online for about an hour every day. I listen to the wireless a lot, sometimes starting at 5.30 am when Radio 4 starts. I’m looking forward to going out to lunch next month, when the weather warms up. Out into the garden.

It did cross our minds to go away but we are much happier at home surrounded by Panes and Penates; the spirits of the larder and kitchen who keep food in the house and provide a pleasant atmosphere in which to live.

I hope you are as fortunate and draw your attention to Hibernophile’s prayer at the end of his recent comment.

Keep us, good Lord,
under the shadow of your mercy
in this time of uncertainty and distress.
Sustain and support the anxious and fearful,
and lift up all who are brought low;
that we may rejoice in your comfort
knowing that nothing can separate us from your love
in Christ Jesus our Lord,
Amen.