What 10p will buy you

Last night we met one of our Abu Dhabi compatriots for drinks and noshes in Camden Town. It's a lot less quaint than it sounds, which is good--think a slightly edgier version of Lincoln Park, with a bunch of alternative/goth clothing stores, record shops, bars and storefront restaurants. Friend of the Blog Nick ran into Amy Winehouse in a pub there a few weeks ago.

Anyway, after a night of low-key revelry, we were headed back to the Tube stop when a woman approached and asked for change. Other Friend of the Blog Pete dug into his pocket and handed her some silver. She thanked him and walked away...

... then, after about 15 feet, turned around and gave him his change back. "I'm not that desperate," she said as she returned his 10 pence.

The moral of the story, of course, is that beggars really can be choosers.

Off to Buckingham Palace today... we'll say hello to the Queen for you.