Tea at Four, with One Place Remaining

At precisely four o’clock, Sir Percival Hootington opened the drawing-room doors for one of his celebrated afternoon teas.

Every invited guest was present. Nevertheless, an additional chair stood beside the fire, accompanied by an untouched cup and saucer.

Lord Bartholomew Tuskington suspected an error, although his manners prevented him from saying so directly. Lord Aurelius Plumecrest wondered whether a foreign dignitary was expected. Baron Clement Stillwater simply smiled and accepted another slice of cake.

The mystery was resolved when a young palace messenger arrived carrying an urgent letter. Rain had soaked his coat, his route had delayed his luncheon, and he clearly expected to leave the moment his duty was complete.

Sir Percival instead directed him towards the empty chair.

The message could wait for the time required to pour a warm cup of tea.

Sir Percival later explained that hospitality was not demonstrated by perfectly accommodating those one expected. Its truest measure was whether room had been left for someone one did not.

An additional place has appeared at every one of his teas since.