I don’t drink to excess. I may partake with colleagues and perhaps on occasion alone, but if I were to overindulge I think I have good reason to. That’s the thing, I could be addicted. I should be addicted. My editor tells me it’s a wonder I make it to the office in the morning.

In that case, I got here all on my lonesome. Must just be pure talent I guess. A few words from your direction may have greased the wheels but they were already in motion.

But gratitude is still owed all the same. Manners trump safety after all.

Coming from a formidable subject like yourself, this is high praise. I owe it to you, and your…kind, I suppose.