Wednesday 17^th January, 2018 2330

Sod it.

I am as near to a rock as anyone can be other than Hollywood cowboys but I still need female company.

Not a soul has said yes.

I could understand if I was a lecherous creepy old man (and I admit to the last) but hell, at least in Chizhou my students obliged.

I just happen to be alone. I also happen to have itchy feet and fancy a few days away.

I know, I need to conserve money for summer.

I just wanted to treat someone to a couple of days away.

It is tempting to just go somewhere alone but all that would happen would be that I used my hotel room in precisely the same way I use this place. So to hell with all those who refused me, I shall probably remain where I am.

That of course focuses my mind on summer.

Perfect outcome? Joan comes with me to England. Second is Alice in Wuhu and third (but only because I never for a moment thought she would agree), Joanna.

I will make a prediction right now. Joan will refuse citing gossip, Alice will be studying and Joanna will have work commitments.

If all the above come true I shall not see the UK for yet another year.

I may not go anywhere. I may go somewhere I have never been.

I am however seriously considering what Chinese “friendship REALLY means.