Q. My husband and I are lucky enough to own
a rather lovely corner of Tuscany. A couple who came to stay with their four children last year have started putting pressure on us to invite them again this summer, saying that they need to plan their children’s school holidays. Although we enjoyed their company, we do have other friends and we like to ring the changes. Those of our friends without small children don’t necessarily wish to commit themselves until nearer the time because of their work (some are actors). We might well want to invite this family, but don’t want to be bullied into cutting off other options. What should we do, Mary?
Name and address withheld A. Tell the pushy family that you cannot commit yourself so far in advance. A certain high-profile politician, whose name you cannot release for security reasons, has indicated that he and his family may well wish to requisition your property during the summer months. Say, ‘We’ll have a much clearer picture after the election ... oops! Better say no more .... ’
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