I remember visiting my mother and her new husband there, years ago. In the palm lounge a man was playing a piano, there was the sound of teacups being replaced on saucers and the chink of silver teaspoons against china. It felt separate from the noise of London outside. We talked of staying there, over breakfast. Two nights, two days, most of which I would spend sleeping. The price was ridiculous. Of course. I can still fantasise though. That costs nothing.
