denisetwin asks: What are your thoughts regarding Monarchies vs Elected Officials? Do you feel term limits for elected officials are the best way to avoid the “power corrupts” situations that seem to lead to despots/nepotism in power or is there a better way in your opinion? Do you feel differently on this subject when it comes to a supernatural Council vs human politics?

My goodness gracious me, pudding drop, what a terribly dour question. I suppose if you asked me to consider it with any gravitas my temptation is to say it is entirely dependent upon the individual. The key, in either case, to to place into power a person who’s natural character in one who does not wish to rule, and yet who has had an upbringing of strict adherence to ethics and responsibility. Inexcusably dull chaps as a general rule, but responsible and duty bound. And no poets. Poets should never be given any power whatsoever.

beezlefishy asks: How did you feel about the fashions of the Elizabethan era? And what are your thoughts on the corset falling out of use in modern times?

Now, my darling fishy-one, do you know the doggerel on Our Fair Bess? She was very lacking, as one might say, in the operatic endowments arena. The fashions of the day rather followed this trend, and while no one would ever accuse me of being a poodlefaker, I appreciate when a female has curves rather than not. I did think the fashions for gentlemen were quite delightful, so very many details and sumptuous fabrics and bejewelments.

As to the lack of corset in the modern day, a tragedy I dare say for female kind. Good posture is a thing of the past, not to mention various back pains and other sufferings that result of a woman spending most of her life . . . unsupported. As for corsets on men, I have never advocated this venture, it is deceitful.

adelheid_p asks: Is iced tea a beverage that you would drink?

Pardon me? What!

Liam asks: One wonders what your perceptions are regarding all those little children who think it “cool” to dress as one of your ilk, spend their nights partying in various “goth” clubs, and spending the other part of their lives living in their mothers basements. Any comments?

One must train up the next generation as best one can and weigh all young persons attire in the great balance of fashionable life. I mean to say, my darling boy, at least they are not sporting those falling-down baggy – dare I even dignify them with the name? – trousers.

* An interjection from Miss Gail who highly recommends the entertaining Goths in Hot Weather or the indubitably vital Gothic Charm School.

profbutters asks: Can one rely over-much on corsetry? Is there a point when resistance is futile? I am thinking of George IV.

Oh, my, yes.

* Again Miss Gail interjects. She worked as a corset fitter for some nine years and would like to say that it is always worth a try. You would be surprised what she can do with a corset.

And that’s enough fabulousity for now,

Miss Gail

• Want to ask Lord Akeldama a question? You can only do that through Gail’s newsletter, the Chirrup. 

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