The Flickering Flame.

   I occasionally light a small candle to mark the passing of someone I respected or admired, even if I never met them in everyday life.  Mum used to do this, and it seems I've inherited the habit.

   It's a strange and eclectic collection of people who get this final accolade.

   A while back it was for Mike Hoare, the mercenary leader.  The old bugger lived to be 100, which is a rare thing amongst those who followed his trade.

   Most recently it was for Harry Patterson (Jack Higgins), the writer.  I couldn't help thinking it was also for his regular characters, their slow development over the years suddenly halted.

   As Mum once said, "The old order changeth, always.  And the new have to find their own way.  The light shines in both directions, if you let it."

   Gyppo