He who is contented is rich.

Early morning. A foreigner can be seen striding along the lane that leads from the top of the ridge down to the old ruined hut at the bottom. As he goes he talks to two furry dogs. From time to time they look up and acknowledge his presence. The female dog, who is ferociously independent, wanders off into the sunflower fields in search of voles. She lets out a ''wait for me ! '' yelp every hundred yards or so. The boy dog leaps on invisible things in the long grass. All are, in their own way, happy.

Seven at night, the mayor arrives at the gate. Just in time for a glass of champagne. He's accompanied by the man in the day-glo yellow jacket. To celebrate the France v Germany match there will be a party on the village green. The depressive accordion playing physiotherapist will be there. So too will the band from the neighbouring village. ''Band'' is a loose term to describe four retired gentlemen who supplement their pensions by playing at pre-teen parties. Their repertoire includes 'Puff the Magic Dragon'. 'Sur le pont d'Avignon'  and 'We're all going to the zoo tomorrow'. 

It seems that the whole of France now believes that the World Cup is theirs for the taking.

When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.

'The font' in London for a small thumb operation. The hospital friendly and efficient. The whole process a delight, or as much of a delight as a small thumb operation can be. Everything arranged within 24 hours. Reading the newspapers you'd think that Britain, or for that matter France, have become sour, complaining, places. The people and the reality quite different.

Bob and Sophie spend the day in the garden with Angus trimming the wisteria above the front door. They get up early and go to bed late. A bacon sandwich the highlight of their day.  When 'the font' returns at midnight they're both in a deep sleep. Bob wakes briefly, barks twice and then settles down again. 'The font' comes in through the door on the upstairs terrace so as not to disturb them. Bob will be reunited with his pack at breakfast later this morning. An emotional reunion can be guaranteed.