Full of beans
I have been making my own coffee from bean to cup. I now learn that I may have been more enthusiastic than skilful: my new girlfriend tells me my coarse grind is not always appropriate, and she has, on occasion, taken over the grinding herself. Her efforts are slower than my own, and I have to admit that while I like my method, hers produces a smoother brew. I am always keen to learn. Is there a hard and fast rule you could suggest?
ND, Norwich
I’m never in favour of the hard and fast, as there are so many factors to consider, such as time of day or what mood you are in. First thing in the morning, for instance, we prefer a coarser grind than later in the day, when something finer, and therefore stronger, is more appreciated, although it takes more effort. Most enthusiasts now eschew electrical aids and insist on doing everything by hand, but I think this is overly purist, and you can’t really tell the difference when it comes to the end result.
Making an entrance
A few days ago, as I approached the revolving door to leave a London club, I stood back to allow a lady to precede me. It became apparent that she would have to push the heavy door round. Should I have barged in front to get the door turning so she would not have to do any heavy work?
SL, Monks Risborough
If you did get in first, you would have had to go all the way around again to push it until she got out. Really, I can’t think there is any woman incapable of managing a revolving door. The elderly are sometimes a little slow, but I find that if I am behind one of these dodderers, applying a bit of speedy force soon has them lurching along with urgency as the alarming thought that they might be run over by the door behind sharpens their reflexes.
Ups and downs
Is it really common practice to stand up whenever a lady enters a room? We were staying with a group of friends recently and some men did, and some didn’t. It was all very awkward.
WW, by email
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It is nice as a graceful acknowledgment of presence, but should never become a rigid rule, so be guided by the situation. For instance, as other guests arrive, it is welcoming for the men to rise rather than just continue to lounge around chatting. But if the hostess is nipping in and out to check the veg, then it is ridiculous for them to be leaping up and down with her.
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