The High Chaparral

Despite repeated attempts throughout history, Britain was never able to conquer France fully or permanently. However, quite recently we British have come up with a cunning plan; we're buying it.

On Friday we completed the purchase of 2900 sq.m. of land from our neighbour, taking our total land holding to about 8000 sq.m.

Our neighbour decided to move home a while ago and since this parcel of her land was both contiguous with and overlooked our existing land, we decided to ask to buy it rather than risk someone moving in next door who wanted to do something on it which destroyed our privacy or tranquility. So, for a small purchase price and a small fortune in the solicitor's fees, we now have the best part of two acres.

Of course, new land means new neighbours, and here they are. It has to be said that their personal hygiene leaves a little to be desired and their conversation, if sparkling by comparison with the cat, is limited. Still, since the Limousin breed is famous for the quality of its meat, we're intending to have them for dinner on occasions.

Of course, new land means a new view and here it is. Our chateau, with the slate roof, is on the right and the view extends over the valley of the Creuse. We're thinking of putting a summer house with a bar up there!

Of course, new land means new work. At the moment our only real plans for it are an orchard and a small arboretum. However, we have to face the fact that 2900 sq.m. of grassland, previously well-manured by the neighbour's horse, is going to give us a maintenance challenge. We're therefore thinking, with degrees of seriousness which vary according to mood and alcohol consumption, of buying or giving free grazing to a few sheep and/or goats and/or a donkey or two. Watch this space.