I am désolée to have to point out that even if one is an Earl this is a shitty apology. (GASP. OFF WITH HER HEAD.) I do not approve of pre-made check-here and fill-in-the-blank thank-you cards for seven-year-olds, so I certainly do not approve of shortcut apology cards for grownups. If one actually owes someone an apology, one should call or (better) write a real and heartfelt note. I understand that this card is humorous in intent (I can’t imagine that even the most fun-loving lordling was guilty of “riding to hounds in drawing room” so frequently that he couldn’t even fathom writing out the entire phrase). But if the hyperbole was perhaps a way of laughing off a tendency to imbibe too much and behave poorly, this is a problem. People who are annoying drunks at parties should curtail or get help for their drinking. It’s tacky, and when the host can’t even berate the drunkard because he’s a friggin’ Earl, and the host has to keep inviting him to parties no matter what, even if he barfs all over the Aubusson, it’s tiresome.
I’m going out on a limb and suggesting the previous Earl – he’s the right age for 1920s hijinks, where those sorts of things were popular.
Perhaps this is the leetle joke?
Like this:
http://www.thefashionpolice.net/2007/10/the-essential-t.html
As I said, in perhaps an overly ornate manner, I do believe this may be a leetle joke, but one that may be prompted by the Earl’s frequent need to apologize.
I’m going to give the Earl the b of the d and assume that this is actually a humorous thank you for inviting me I had a great time at your party card.
Yes! The b of the d!
If one is going to ride to hounds in someone else’s abode, it is only fair to the hounds to give them at least the length of a substantial hall to get going, though one might be able to circle the ballroom. The drawing room is simply inappropriate.
So discreet petting is ok? Good to know.