A young person at Le Livre de Poche stand in the signing hall this morning: "Is Tolkien signing?"
My French publisher: "Unfortunately, he is dead."
(Polite but clear. Two excellent qualities of my French publisher.)
Me, ordering room service for tomorrow's breakfast: "Bonsoir. I would like to order breakfast for the morning."
The lady: "Would you like coffee or tea?"
Me: "Tea, please."
The lady: "Very good. You will have some orange juice and some croissant with a nice chocolat."
Me (delighted): "Okay then!"
(Decisive and confident. Two excellent qualities of French breakfast room service.)
I am having a wonderful trip :)